The arrival of fall brings cooler temperatures, colorful foliage and of course, seasonal treats to Trader Joe’s supermarkets. The Eagle’s on-staff Trader Joe’s aficionados review their choice snacks, meals and treats from the popular national grocery chain to be enjoyed during the fall season and beyond.
Sela Quinones, Features Beat Reporter
It is truly a crime that these are seasonal because they are just fabulous. The merging of a classic Indian dish and pumpkin flavor may seem a little odd, but rather than a “sweet” pumpkin taste, these samosas are a subtle savory delight. I would buy every box and try to savor them, but I know I will end up eating them right away because they are just that good. Everyone should pick up a box. They are best eaten when you are really hungry and just want to zap something in the toaster oven. I have cried tears of joy eating these after a long day.
Carter Kim, Multimedia Managing Editor
For my fellow Chinese-minded friends who crave orange chicken but don’t want to brave the harsh D.C. weather to travel to your favorite family-owned Chinese restaurant, Panda Express, Trader Joe’s has got an item for you! Featuring crispy and succulent tempura-fried chicken paired with a bold, tangy orange sauce, this dish is guaranteed to spice up the otherwise melancholy winter months.
Papadums Lentil and Chickpea Crisps
Jack Stashower, Sports Managing Editor
If prompted, my mom will bring up how much she misses the Indian cuisine she had growing up in the United Kingdom. These crackers have been a staple in our household for as long as I can remember. They might be a far cry from the tableside classics you get at an Indian restaurant in London, but that’s not a dig on the Trader Joe’s product. If you’re ever making a curry dish, these are a great starter.
Mina O’Dell, Arts and Entertainment Section Editor
Great for mixing into coffees or for spreading on toast, Trader Joe’s Organic Maple butter is a flavorful whipped butter that is sweet like maple syrup but more versatile than its sticky counterpart, making it great for mixing into coffees or for spreading on toast. I personally enjoy it best paired with fruit like a banana. However, for fellow cold brew enjoyers, the Trader Joe’s website has a super easy recipe for salty maple cold foam, which I highly recommend topping with a sprinkle of nutmeg.
Avery Grossman, Copy Managing Editor
In my mind, there is nothing that speaks of fall more than a cup of apple cider, and Trader Joe’s carries some of the best. The aroma of apples hits as soon as you take a whiff. Smooth, sweet and tangy, this drink bursts with flavor. I like my cider best straight from the fridge, but heat it up for a few minutes in the microwave on a chilly day to warm yourself right up. Alternatively, pour some cider into a mug with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious, mouth-watering fall dessert.
This article was edited by Faith Starchia, Jessica Ackerman and Gabrielle McNamee. Copy editing by Arin Burrell, Jaden Maitland Anderson and Ryan Sieve.
