Trader Joe's Jerk-Style Plantain Chips, 170g

While there's a fair bit of contention as to the precise origins of jerk cooking (some argue that it was invented by the indigenous Taino and Arawak peoples of Jamaica, while others assert that escaped slaves created the cuisine after establishing their own communities on the island), one thing is indisputable: jerk seasoning is savoury, spicy, and certifiably sensational.

Based primarily on the flavours of allspice and hot red peppers, jerk seasoning is traditionally used on milder-flavored proteins like chicken or pork, but we find that it works equally well as a snack-enhancer. Need proof? Look no further than TJ's Jerk-Style Plantain Chips.

Drawing inspiration from classic Jamaican cooking, our Jerk-Style Plantain Chips pair the satisfying crunch of a plantain chip with the multitude of flavors of jerk seasoning. Each individual Chip is covered in a generous dusting of jerk cooking-inspired herbs and spices, including allspice, garlic powder, cinnamon, coriander, nutmeg, and ginger extract.

What you'll likely notice above all other flavours, however, is the increasing heat of spicy red chili pepper powder. As you snack, the spice builds steadily (but not altogether overwhelmingly) to an exhilarating crescendo of heat, making it a perfect treat for the real spice fans out there (you know who you are.