This is the second in a two-part series on items from Trader
Joe’s and how they can be used on the grill.
This is the second in a two-part series on items from Trader Joe’s and how they can be used on the grill.
In last week’s column, I began my series on unique items available at Trader Joe’s and how they can be used for grilling. I served as your tour guide as we made a visit to the refrigerator section. We discovered a few meatless items and refrigerated specialty sauces. I also described an array of meats, including selections of fish, beef and chicken. This week, I will conclude my series with a visit to the pantry section.
Ever since the specialty grocery store, Trader Joe’s, opened in Morgan Hill, I visit this location often. Visits to a San Jose store were less frequent and I would complete other errands on the way. Time would be precious and I would not take time to explore. My quick “in and out” trips have changed. I stay longer, read labels and learn more about items. Another bonus is that I am able to purchase some of the ready-made products from the freezer section. These items do not have to endure a long ride home anymore. Luckily, I did not have this concern with pantry items.
When I mention something as a “pantry” item or refer to an area as a “pantry section,” I am referring to specific items. In this area, items do not require refrigeration. Flour, vinegar, salt, dried herbs and spices, sauces, and canned items may be found in these aisles. The pantry section at Trader Joe’s is smaller than those of large super market chains. However, Trader Joe’s offers items that are quite different or hard to find. Take a stroll through this section and you will find grilling inspiration on just about every shelf.
One of the simplest ways of adding flavor to anything that will be making its way to the grill is with ready-made sauces. Trader Joe’s has a large selection of sauces that may be poured over your evening’s meal and allowed to marinate before it is grilled. Whether you are pressed for time or you would like to experiment with new flavors, these sauces are the best way to go.
Just like the refrigerator section, basil pesto and sun-dried tomato pesto are available in this section, but come in a sealed jar. These are great substitutes for the fresh version. Unlike the fresh version, you may keep them in the cupboard or pantry, ready to use at a moments notice.
Many sauces have unique flavors and are inspired by cultures from around the world. Some of these sauces are what Trader Joe’s calls “simmering sauces,” but can also be used to flavor items for the grill. The flavors behind some of these sauces are inspired by Cuba, Thailand and India. Thai Green Curry and Indian Curry Simmering sauces are just two of the many. There are also a few traditional flavors of simmering sauces such as Lemon Dill. Each is very versatile and adaptable to many grilling selections. Trader Joe’s branded label, Trader Ming’s, features sauces of Asian inspiration. General Tsau Sauce and Hunan Sauce are two that will put a delicious and exotic spin on anything for the grill.
Since this column is about grilling and barbecue, I cannot neglect the Trader Joe’s barbecue sauces. One is a basic sauce sold as Trader Joe’s Barbecue Sauce. Another barbecue sauce sold under the Trader Joe’s label, Kansas City Barbecue sauce, is one inspired by the popular barbecue region.
Many people like to take a pinch of this and a pour of that to make their own sauces or seasonings for the grill. Excellent vinegar will make a good grilled item great. For that extra touch, you may want to try the California Grapefruit Vinegar or Mango Chili Vinegar. Trader Joe’s was one of the first places I found white balsamic vinegar. Although it is not a “true” balsamic, white balsamic makes a great addition to chicken or fish, without the dark color. The taste is just about the same. Oils are also great flavorings when grilling. For something different and earthy, try its walnut oil or toasted sesame oil in a sauce or as a finishing touch once the item comes off the grill.
Trader Joe’s features a variety of unique items that will inspire you in your next grilling adventure. Walk through the new store and discover something new for your own grilling. While I was there recently, I selected two sauces to sample: the Gyoza Dipping Sauce and the Cuban Mojito Simmering Sauce. The spicy and salty flavor from the gyoza sauce was not originally intended for grilled beef, but matches very well. Inspired by the mojito alcoholic beverage, the simple flavor of citrus and cumin in the mojito sauce is a perfect complement to grilled chicken.
