One of the most exciting new products I discovered at this year’s Expo West was The Froot Thief Real Fruit Whips. As long-time readers know, I am continuously on the hunt for allergen-friendly snacks that contain natural ingredients. The Froot Thief checks off all of my boxes, and I cannot recommend them enough!
The tagline on The Froot Thief packaging is “No added nasties!” and they mean it. The Froot Thief Real Fruit Whips are vegan, gluten-free and non-GMO. They are free of all the major allergens and contain no added sugar.
The Froot Thief is a snack that you can feel good about packing in your kids’ lunch; each serving contains one cup of fresh fruit!
The individually wrapped packets make these snacks perfect for packing on-the-go. My kids (and my husband and I) all loved the fruity flavor and chewy consistency. It is similar to a fruit snack, but in the shape of spaghetti, if that makes sense.
Where To Purchase The Froot Thief Real Fruit Whips
Currently, The Froot Thief Real Fruit Whips are available for purchase online. I will definitely be on the lookout for them at Costco, where they are coming soon.
The Froot Thief Giveaway
Enter the giveaway below for your chance to win 100 packets of The Froot Thief Real Fruit Whips!
Disclosure: I received samples in order to facilitate this review. All opinions are my own.
One of the many interesting brands I discovered at Expo West this year was Whoa! Dough. These bars will appeal to anyone who is prone to sneaking a lick of the the spoon when making cookies or brownies. It seems like eating cookie dough has become more socially acceptable, most notably in the form of cookie dough ice cream.
Whoa! dough bars improves the edible dough concept even more by offering plant-based cookie dough bars that are gluten-free, dairy free, egg free, soy free. These vegan bars use all-natural ingredients such as gluten-free whole grain oat flour and chickpea flour.
Whoa! Dough comes in a variety of appealing flavors:
Oatmeal Cookie
Chocolate Chip
Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip
Sprinkle Sugar Cookie
Brownie Batter
Peanut Butter
Sugar Cookie
Here is a close-up of the Brownie Batter Whoa! Dough bar. It has a pleasant soft texture, and the chocolate-y flavor really shines through.
These bars are a nice addition to the stash of bars that we keep on hand for snacking on the go.
If you or someone you know enjoys cookie dough, be sure to give Whoa! Dough bars a try!
Disclosure: I received samples in order to facilitate this review. All opinions are my own.
Snack bars are a way of life for me. The kids in my classroom know that I bring some type of bar practically everyday for my mid-morning snack. However, the ingredient list for many seemingly healthy snack bars are not actually always that good for you. Simple Bars are the result of one person’s quest to make delicious snack bars with only simple and clean ingredients.
Simple Bars are currently available in four unique flavors:
This is a close up of the Chocolate sea salt bar, my personal flavor. As you can see, these bars contain large pieces of fresh-tasting almonds and peanuts, as well as a sprinkling of chia seeds and a touch of sea salt. In this particular bar, the nuts are held together with just the right amount of dark chocolate. Although Simple Bars are crunchy, I did not feel like they would break my teeth like some other bars that I have tried.
Simple Bars are the perfect snack for when you need a little pick me up. They are also conveniently packaged for on-the-go snacking.
Simple Bars contain no sugar alcohols, stevia or artificial flavors. All of their bars are gluten-free, non-gmo and vegan. They are a simply satisfying snack!
Where To Purchase Simple Bars
Simple Bars are available for purchase through their online store. Hopefully they will become more widely available soon.
Simple Bars Variety Pack Giveaway
Enter the giveaway below for a chance to win a Simple Bars Variety Pack!
Disclosure: I received this product for free from Moms Meet (momsmeet.com) to use and post my honest opinions. This post may contain affiliate links.
Although many associate giving chocolate with Valentine’s Day, I like to look for chocolate-giving opportunities year-round. I found a great treat for a springtime basket: GATSBY Almond Dark chocolate bars (see the literary reference?).
GATSBY chocolate is unique because of its low sugar and fat content (90% less sugar and fat than premium chocolate brands). This innovative line of chocolate is also Keto-friendly, with only 1–2 grams of net carbs per serving, or 6 grams of net carbs for an entire bar. If you are familiar with Halo Top ice cream, GATSBY was started by the same people!
Here is the nutritional information so you can take a closer look for yourself.
The outer packaging of the GATSBY chocolate bars have a luxurious look that make them feel like a special indulgence. In addition, the inner gold foil wrapper definitely gives off Willy Wonka vibes!
So how does this better-for-you brand of chocolate taste? Well, if you enjoy dark chocolate, the GATSBY Almond Dark bar will definitely satisfy. The chocolate itself has a rich premium flavor that is not overly sweet, while the bits of almond add just the right crunch. I would challenge anyone to guess that this bar is low in calories and fat.
I cannot wait to try some of GATSBY’s other varieties, including Sea Salt Extra Dark, Cookies & Cream, and Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups.
Where to Purchase GATSBY Chocolate
GATSBY Chocolate is available to purchase at Sprouts Farmers Market, Safeway, Albertsons, and in stores and online at Walmart. To find GATSBY Chocolate near you, visit gatsbychocolate.com/pages/store-locator.
Disclosure: We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.
This year I would like to share more about some of the recipes that I try out at home. One of my favorite categories of books to read is cookbooks. This may be strange to some, but I enjoy reading the little blurbs explaining how a recipe came about and what makes it special. Although I often feel inspired to make new recipes, only rarely do I make the effort to gather ingredients and bookmark recipes for later use.
I even had Maldon salt that I had ordered from Amazon already on hand. Flaky sea salt is listed as an optional ingredient, but it really adds a nice textural crunch and flavor. (This salt cellar is from the Hearth & Hand with Magnolia collection from Target, which we received as a gift).
Aren’t those flakes of salt so pretty? Rolling the dough into balls as instructed in the recipe also resulted in perfectly shaped, round cookies. This recipe is a keeper!
Disclosure: I received a sample in order to facilitate this review. All opinions are my own. This post contains affiliate links.
The theme of the November 2022 Seoulbox is “Street Foods”. This Seoulbox is designed to transport you directly to the lively street market stalls of Korea! As you can see, the box contains quite an array of interesting Korean products to try out. Instead of listing every single product like last time, I am highlighting my five favorite products in this month’s box.
My Five Favorite Products in the
November 2022 Seoulbox
1. Creamy Chili Sauce Potato Chips
When I opened this sizable bag, I immediately noticed the sauce container nestled among the “chips”. This is actually a brilliant idea and I wonder if U.S. snack brands will take note. The creamy chili sauce definitely has a kick to it, and it pairs well with the thick and crispy potato sticks.
2. Stubborn Sweet Potato Chips
I am not sure why these sweet potato chips are labeled as “stubborn”. However, they are tasty and different than anything that can be found on U.S. supermarket shelves. There is a notable added sweetness that makes these chips balance on the edge between sweet and savory.
3. Noodles Fit Eomuktang (Fishcake Soup)
Just look at that fit cat pumping iron!
This noodle soup will only appeal to seafood fans, as it has a strong fish/shellfish flavor. I really enjoyed the bounciness of the cellophane noodles. It would make a great snack or lunch on a cold wintry day.
4. Jelly in Jelly Lychee
If you have never tried lychee, its taste is difficult to describe. Personally, I love that it is sweet, refreshing and juicy. These qualities are all captured perfectly in these lychee jellies. I just might have to look for the mango flavor at my local Korean market.
5. BT21 Soft Keyring
If you are a BTS fan, you’re probably familiar with BT21. Admittedly, I had to look up this line of cutesy characters to see what it is all about. My daughter claimed this keyring for her BTS-loving friend. I am sure any members of the BTS ARMY will appreciate this extra goodie.
Special Black Friday + Cyber Monday Seoulbox Sale
For a limited time, use code VIPBLACKFRIDAY to get 25% off at Seoulbox! (This offer is valid from November 22-November 30, 2022).
Disclosure: I received samples in order to facilitate this review. All opinions are my own.
Working at an elementary school, I see first-hand how many kids deal with food allergies. Alas, both of my own kids still need to carry around an epi-pen and are careful to avoid all foods with nuts. Jaxs Monster Mix started as an idea of a mom in search of a wholesome allergy-friendly snack for her own child with food allergies.
Jaxs offers a few different varieties, but the variety we tried was Jaxs Monster Pop Mix. This unique snack mix contains gluten-free sea salt pretzel twists, vegan cheesy corn nuggets, and sweetened banana chips.
Jaxs Monster Pop Mix is delightfully crisp and crunchy. It is a little bit salty and a little bit sweet, so it satisfies any snack craving. In addition, this mix is non-GMO, gluten-free, vegan, nut-free, Kosher, and contains no artificial colors.
Each one ounce bag contains 140 calories, and is the perfect size to take on the go. My not-so-little soccer player appreciated it for his post-game refueling.
If you are looking for an allergy-friendly snack that will appeal to kids, check out Jax’s Monster Pop Mix!
Where To Purchase Jaxs Monster Pop Snack Mix
Jaxs Monster Pop Snack Mix is available for purchase through their online store.
Jaxs Monster Pop Snack Mix Giveaway
Enter the giveaway below for your chance to win a 12-pack of Jaxs Monster Pop Snack Mix!
Disclosure: I received a sample in order to facilitate this review. All opinions are my own.
It seems like Korean culture has been receiving a lot of attention lately, and there is actually a name for this phenomenon: Hallyu Wave or Korean Wave. My daughter and I like to watch Korean dramas (my favorites are Start-Up and Crash Landing On You). In addition, everyone in our family enjoys eating Korean food. Therefore, when I heard about Seoulbox, I was intrigued.
Seoulbox is a subscription box that delivers samples of Korean culture straight to your door.
What Is Inside A Seoulbox?
The contents vary each month, but this is what I received in my Seoulbox:
I found the booklet that came inside the Seoulbox to be both helpful and interesting in deciphering the contents of the box. The booklet also contains a lot of fun facts about Korean pop culture.
Drinks
KANU Mild Roast Americano Coffee: I am a fan of Korean instant coffee, but it has been a while since I drank it. These little packets are quite convenient.
Vita 500: After doing a little internet research, it appears this drink is apple juice-based, with added Vitamin C. The small bottle is cute and the promise of energy is appealing.
Savory Snacks
Tteokbokki Snack (pictured): It is interesting to see these spicy rice cakes in snack form. They are described as “sweet, spicy and savory”. The package features a cute chili pepper that says “So hot!!” These bite-size snacks have a kick at the end.
Simtong Potato Chips: These chips are flavored with Gochujang (Korean chili paste), which I think is delicious. I would not be surprised to see more American snacks adopting this flavor profile.
Hosigi Soysauce Chicken Snack: Have you had KFC, Korean Fried Chicken, that is? Apparently Hosigi is a well-known Korean fried chicken chain, and these crunchy snacks are based on their soy sauce fried chicken. Even though it is just a sample, this bag is big enough to share. My son and husband gave this snack a thumbs up.
Meal Time
Baek (White) Myun: This packet of instant ramen has a seafood and beef-based broth that is a little spicy. I am looking forward to trying this one.
Goodies
BTS Boy With Luv Hand Towel: This would be a lovely surprise for any BTS fan. The towel is a nice size and has a plush feel. My daughter gave this to her friend who is a BTS superfan and she was thrilled.
Tangerine Wash-Off Mask: Koreans are known for taking care of their skin, so I like that this Seoulbox included skincare products. This mask comes in powder form, which you mix with a little water to make a paste. I tried it, and my skin felt smoother!
Cure: the First Solution Aloe Mask: I had my daughter try this mask after she had a long day at the beach. She said it felt hydrating and soothing.
Sweet Snacks/Treats
Vita500 Jelly: This is the Vita500 drink in jelly form. The booklet mentions that Vita500 is often seen in Korean dramas, so I guess I will have to keep my eye out for it.
Chocopie Banana: This was one of the few snacks that I was already familiar with. I had never tried the banana flavor before, though. I find it interesting that banana seems to be a popular flavor of sweets in Korea. Chocolate, banana and marshmallow sounds like an appealing combination to me!
Franzzi Chocolate Yogurt Cookie: This snack features sandy cookies with yogurt cream, which sounds yummy.
Dalgona Potato Chips: Dalgona became popular in America due to Squid Game, but this is the potato chip version.
Green Tea Crepes Snack: I seem to like anything flavored with Green Tea, so I am sure this will be my cup of tea!
Kopiko Coffee Candy: I have tried this coffee candy before-it has a true coffee flavor.
Yuja Cheesecake: Yuja is like a sweet lemon and I had not heard of it before. I am looking forward to trying this one.
Chewy Bungeo-ppang: This is described as a fish-shaped snack with cream filling, so I am wondering if it is like Taiyaki (a Japanese fish-shaped snack).
How to Purchase a Seoulbox
You can purchase a Seoulbox subscription (or just one box at a time!) through the Seoulbox website.
Signature Seoulbox Giveaway
Enter the giveaway below for your chance to win a Signature Seoulbox! (Please note, you must both follow Seoulbox on Twitter and subscribe to their newsletter in order to be eligible to win.)
Scanning the aisles for new and/or limited time items at Trader Joe’s is always fun. I have been reading the Trader Joe’s Frequent Flyer since I was a kid, before I was ever in charge of grocery shopping for a household. My son and I enjoy also listening to the podcast Inside Trader Joe’s, which often inspires me to look for new products.
Today I am sharing our thoughts about Trader Joe’s Ube Mochi Pancake & Waffle Mix. This seasonal item has appeared on shelves during the late spring for the past couple of years. I am not sure about the reason behind the timing; I don’t believe ube (purple yam that is popular in the Philippines) is seasonal,, but I could be wrong.
First of all, I am a fan of the cheery packaging and bubble letter font. This would make a nice addition to a breakfast-themed gift basket.
Clear directions on the back of the box.
Nutritional facts and ingredients for those who care…
I poured the mix into the mixing bowls and added water, eggs and oil (butter can also be used instead). Interestingly, the ratios are the same for making pancakes or waffles. Given a choice, I usually choose to make waffles because they I find them to be less finicky and I adore crisp edges.
After quick whisk, the batter turns into a pretty purple color, presumably from the purple yam puree and vegetable juice.
The aroma of these waffles wafted through our home and brought my teenage kids downstairs for a lazy Saturday breakfast.
As you can see, the waffles had a nice golden exterior, with a light purplish hue on the inside. Everyone in my family enjoyed these Ube Mochi waffles. The ube flavor was present, but subtle. My favorite aspect of these waffles was the chewy consistency thanks to the sweet rice flour. Hats off to Trader Joe’s for once again allowing us to take an international culinary journey while still wearing our pajamas.
Disclosure: I received samples in order to facilitate this review. All opinions are my own.
I have been trying to increase our family’s intake of DHA Omega‑3s, which are linked to reduced inflammation, improved blood flow as well as optimized heart and brain health. Therefore, I was excited to learn more about Wild Planet Foods, which specializes in canned seafood that cares about the planet. Read more about their commitment to sustainable fishing practices here.
When I opened my first can of Wild Planet Albacore Wild Tuna, I could immediately tell a difference between Wild Planet and other brands of canned tuna. The directions say not to drain it, because the tuna is only packed with the natural juices from the tuna itself (no extra water or oil is added).
My son made a quick tuna salad for a picnic lunch by simply adding some olive oil-based mayo and relish to the Wild Planet Albacore Wild Tuna.
I remember my mom making tuna salad sandwiches for dinner on the days we had piano lessons because there was no time to cook! Having some cans of Wild Planet tuna ready to go in your pantry can definitely be a timesaver.
One of my kids’ favorite snacks is onigiri, which are Japanese rice balls with filling. We recently bought tuna and salmon onigiri from a grocery store in Little Tokyo, so I thought why not make them at home?
Using my onigiri mold (this can also be done with your hands), I scooped in some rice, layered some of the tuna mixture and topped it with more rice. The mold helps you achieve the perfect traditional triangle shape.
Serve with some sheets of nori (seaweed) for a quick and easy snack! One can of Wild Planet Skipjack Wild Tuna and two cups of rice (before cooking) was enough to make eight onigiri.
Wild Planet also sent me a few of their Wild Tuna Ready-To-Eat Meals. These meals are perfect for eating on the go because they do not require any refrigeration, heating, cooking or additional preparation. They would be perfect for my son and husband to pack for their next Boy Scout camping trip.
The Wild Planet Ready-To-Eat Meals come in three flavors:
Wild Tuna Pasta Salad
Wild Tuna White Bean Salad
Wild Tuna, Bean & Corn Salad
I brought the Wild Tuna Pasta Salad along on our picnic. The chunks of tuna were sizable and the flavors from the tomatoes, red peppers, olives and pasta melded well together. It was surprisingly filling!
Where To Purchase Wild Planet Foods
Wild Planet Foods are available online, Sprouts, Ralphs, and a store near you. I have also been stocking up on cans of Wild Planet tuna at my local Costco!
Wild Planet Foods Giveaway
Enter the giveaway below for your chance to win an assortment of Wild Planet Foods!
