Trader Joe's Garlic Shrimp Chips, 100g

A celebrated snack across East and Southeast Asia, shrimp chips (also called “kropek” in the Philippines, “bánh phổng tôm” in Vietnam, or “prawn crackers” elsewhere) are traditionally made by combining a starch (often tapioca) with ground shrimp and aromatic seasonings, forming them into little pucks, then frying them until they’re supleratively light, airy, and crispy. That’s certainly the tactic taken by the supplier behind TJ’s Garlic Shrimp Chips, which have only a mild seafood flavour to them—the eating experience is really more about a broadly savoury, garlicky, and umami-rich profile, with a pleasantly crispy crunch that leads into a remarkably unique melt-in-your-mouth texture on the tongue.

If you’ve never had a Shrimp Chip before, now’s an excellent time to try. With their satisfying depth of flavour and lively notes of garlic and herbs, TJ’s Garlic Shrimp Chips make an excellent standalone snack, and an able accessory to sandwiches, soups, fried chicken, and curries. And if you’ve never tried using a Shrimp Chip to scoop up some ceviche, Creamy Spinach & Artichoke Dip, or Organic Chunky Homestyle Guacamole? Well, now you have something truly special to look forward to.