The Most Unexpected and Awesome Things You Can Find in the Pantry Aisles at Trader Joe's

POPSUGAR Photography | Erin Cullum
POPSUGAR Photography | Erin Cullum

If you have your go-to Trader Joe's staples, you're probably used to getting in and out of the store as quickly as possible without doing a whole lot of browsing. But amid those crowded aisles filled with shoppers and crew members wearing Hawaiian t-shirts, there's a whole world of snacks and pantry staples you might not have discovered yet, but you'll be glad you did. Here are the most unexpected and awesome products we've found in the pantry aisles at Trader Joe's that you'll want to add to your cart next time.

01
Sambal Matah Indonesian Salsa ($3)

Sambal Matah Indonesian Salsa ($3)

Shake up your snack routine by swapping traditional chips and salsa for this Indonesian salsa made of cherry peppers, lemongrass, garlic, and shallots. It's a little sweet, a little spicy, and incredibly flavorful — although the amount of oil makes it a little difficult to use as a dip for chips. Serve this spread on a baguette, in a sandwich, or even as a sauce in a stir-fry.

02
Organic Wild Collected Raw Honey ($5)

Organic Wild Collected Raw Honey ($5)

Unfortunately, there's a good chance the honey you're buying at the grocery store is not pure honey and is affected by honey laundering . That's why this organic wild-collected raw honey from Trader Joe's is such a gem. The sole ingredient listed is 100 percent raw, organic wild honey, and the taste and texture is perfect.

03
Extra Thick and Rich Coconut Cream ($1)

Extra Thick and Rich Coconut Cream ($1)

Unlike coconut milk, coconut cream is super thick and rich, and this cheap can from Trader Joe's is a great find. Ideal for using in homemade Indian curries, stews, and desserts, this is a staple you'll be glad to keep in your pantry.

04
Cocoa Almond Spread ($4)

Cocoa Almond Spread ($4)

This is essentially Trader Joe's version of Nutella, and spoiler alert: it's even better. The chocolaty spread has both almonds and hazelnuts, and the rich flavor and smooth texture is reminiscent of the chocolate icing you'd typically find on doughnuts. Heck, it would even make a good substitute for buttercream frosting on cupcakes.

05
Sweet Sriracha Uncured Bacon Jerky ($5)

Sweet Sriracha Uncured Bacon Jerky ($5)

You might hear angels singing after you take a bite of this insanely good sriracha bacon jerky. It most certainly deserves a spot in the list of the best store-bought jerky, and it's a must-try snack if bacon is one of your favorite foods. Not only is it spicy from the sriracha, but it's also sweet thanks to the addition of a little honey and the perfect amount of ginger.

06
Ghost Pepper Potato Chips ($2)

Ghost Pepper Potato Chips ($2)

Our tasters didn't expect to be able to handle the spiciness level of these ghost pepper potato chips, but we were pleasantly surprised. The spice does hit you in the back of the throat after you swallow a chip, but it's the kind of spice that's full of flavor and not just pure heat. Plus, they're lattice-cut and kettle-cooked, which results in a thick and crunchy chip that could definitely stand up to dip.

07
Dolmas ($2)

Dolmas ($2)

Dolmas are a classic Mediterranean food (grape leaves stuffed with rice), and you can find a grade-A-worthy version at Trader Joe's in the canned aisle. These tender and juicy gems are perfect for throwing in your bag for a work lunch or serving up with hummus and tabbouleh for an easy but elegant Mediterranean dinner party. The can only costs $2 and contains 12 dolmas.

08
Cheese Puffs ($2)

Cheese Puffs ($2)

Who knew that cheese puffs that are almost identical to the classic were sitting in the snack aisle at Trader Joe's? While they're not as cheesy as the ones you grew up with, the flavor is spot on and you might find yourself eating half the bag in one sitting. But that's totally OK because they're reduced fat, right?

09
Everyday Seasoning ($2)

Everyday Seasoning ($2)

It's easy to overlook Trader Joe's Everyday Seasoning in the spice section, but now that you know it's there, you should absolutely seek it out. The do-it-all spice blend includes sea salt, mustard seeds, black peppercorns, coriander, onion, garlic, paprika, and chili pepper, making it a finger-licking-good addition to vegetables, chicken, soups, and pretty much anything you cook.