Calbee Umami Seaweed JagaRico: I used to buy the original JagaRico snack in Japan all the time – it has a solid French Fry flavor and snackable form factor that made it a dependable junk food to get from convenience stores. I hadn’t seen the umami seaweed flavor in Japan but came across it at a local Daiso. The already savory flavor of the potato sticks benefits from the flecks of seaweed and make me think that nori-dusted french fries would not be a bad idea. 3.5/5.0
recommended daiso japanese calbee umami seaweed jagarico 3.5
Calbee Takoyaki Balls: Puffed corn snacks coated in a sweet and savory seasoning blend that tastes just like takoyaki sauce (sort of like Japanese Bulldog sauce or Worcestershire sauce, deep in umami). In other words, it doesn't taste like seafood but just the sauce that typically coats the normally octopus-filled balls. Undoubtedly a substantial amount of MSG. Purchased from Uwajimaya, but actually a product of Thailand. 3.0/5.0
uwajimaya japanese calbee takoyaki balls 3.0
Calbee Sukiyaki JagaRico: I love the crunchy Japanese potato snack JagaRico, which is a staple in any convenience store and comes in many different flavors. I hadn't seen the Sukiyaki one before, though, and found it especially addictive. It has a meaty, roasted flavor reminiscent of soy and shiitake, inspired by the hot pot dish typically consisting of sliced beef, mushrooms, onions, and other vegetables. JagaRico more generally is a nice option when you're looking for a potato snack with more bite than a crispy po... (read more) 3.5/5.0
recommended japanese potato calbee sukiyaki jagarico 3.5