The $3 Trader Joe’s Seasoning You’ll Want to Put on Everything (No, It’s Not Everything but the Bagel)
I’ve lived abroad for two decades, and there are times when I feel homesick. When that happens, I tend to eat my favorite foods, like rice with Cantonese-style steamed fish or a bowl of noodle soup. These foods are typically lightly flavored, and sometimes I like to add an extra oomph.
Sure, I can sprinkle more salt, but what I’m looking for is an umami-rich seasoning that helps enhance flavor and texture. So when I came across Trader Joe’s Nori Komi Furikake on its shelves, it immediately made its way to my cart.
I’m no stranger to furikake, a Japanese multi-purpose seasoning that’s typically sprinkled on top of rice, vegetables, or fish. Years ago, during dinnertime, my dad repeatedly sprinkled it on top of his rice bowl after every couple of bites. I got curious one day, following his lead and — lo and behold — my rice tasted more flavorful and appetizing.
The seasoning varies from region to region in Japan and can include various ingredients like bonito flakes, salmon and cod roe, chili flakes, miso powder, and poppy seeds. Whatever type of furikake I use, one thing’s for sure: Just a sprinkle will make pretty much any dish 10 times better.
What’s So Great About Trader Joe’s Nori Komi Furikake?
Trader Joe’s Nori Komi Furikake contains only five ingredients: black and white sesame seeds, confetti-like strips of dried nori seaweed, salt, and kelp powder. Even without MSG, or monosodium glutamate, the combination of ingredients still adds a depth of flavor and a boost of umami to many foods.
In addition to being a flavor booster, TJ’s furikake also adds a crispy, crunchy texture to any dish it touches. As for price, it is less expensive compared to the ones sold at specialty stores, which I’ve seen for twice as much.
What’s the Best Way to Use Nori Komi Furikake?
Trader Joe’s furikake is so versatile that I use it almost every day. For breakfast, I like to sprinkle it on my fried eggs and fluffy omelets for added crunch and saltiness. The nutty flavor from the sesame seeds is also great with the eggs.
I also like to dust some flaky furikake on steamed rice to give it a boost of flavor. Rice plays a central role in many of my meals and when I make a non-saucy dish, furikake helps dress up the grains. It’s a great topper for fish, roasted or steamed vegetables, and noodle soups and instant ramens. If you love snacking, it’s also a fun thing to sprinkle on top of french fries or popcorn.
Buy: Nori Komi Furikake Japanese Multi-Purpose Seasoning, $2.99 for 1.95 ounces
What’s your favorite TJ’s seasoning? Tell us about it in the comments below.
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