[SNACKS] JIN Kimchi: JIN Original Flavour Kimchi

When the Korean Wave washed over Singapore more than a decade ago, it brought along the Korean culture, which is oftentimes spoken through their food. Kimchi, for instance, showed me how resourceful the Koreans were in jazzing up vegetables as boring as cabbage. Their ingenuity not only upped its appeal to the taste buds with its new-found spicy and umami flavours (and as a grown adult who still refuses to eat her greens if given the choice, this is a big deal) but also added to its nutritional value (since it is known to be rich in probiotic bacteria).

Generic kimchi (image by Ally J)

Generic kimchi (image by Ally J)

What had put me off kimchi, however, were the side effects of consuming it, such as how it tends to trigger my acid reflux, belching and bloating. But what really took the cake was the strong stubborn odour the kimchi would always leave in my fridge and taint other food inside, much to the dismay of my family. These reasons propelled me to limit my kimchi-eating experience over the past few years to Korean restaurants. That was, until a recent (unbearable) late-night craving for the fermented vegetable rekindled the thought of having it at my disposal.

Safety seal on JIN Kimchi's jar

Safety seal on JIN Kimchi’s jar

My quest for kimchi on Facebook led me to JIN Kimchi, which was established by a Korean national who runs his own video marketing agency in Singapore. Given the founder’s expertise in digital marketing, it was no wonder that even nonchalant viewers like myself could be so drawn to their promotional videos – typically in the forms of recipes, mukbangs and taste tests – that I ended up ordering two bottles of 345g kimchi in its original flavour on the same night, only to purchase two 690g bottles two days later… and another two more 690g bottles just 10 minutes ago. Sorry, bank account but..

JIN Kimchi is simply too good to resist!

Available in small quantities of 345g (S$17.15) and 690g (S$33.20), the made-to-order kimchi is packed in sealed hexagonal glass jars with a guaranteed delivery turnaround of only 1-2 working days, including Saturday and Sunday. Their promptness in processing my second order is a case in point – the order, although placed at the ungodly hour of 3.37 a.m., managed to arrive at my doorstep at 2.11 p.m. on the same day. Impressive! But do note that a delivery fee of S$2.80 applies to orders below S$50.

Delivery paper bag

Delivery paper bag

Another noteworthy feature of the products is the brilliant packaging. Not only does the glass jar feel substantially luxe, it is also absolutely effective in containing the smell – for real, my fridge (finally) does not reek of rotten vegetables at all! On top of that, the jar has a convenient lug closure system where you would only need to twist the lid once to securely tighten it, so going for seconds (oh trust me, you will!) doesn’t seem so much of a chore anymore! Each order comes with a pair of disposable long wooden chopsticks too which, as cheapskate as I may sound, is rather stingy on their part 🙊 Why not a pair of chopsticks for each jar instead?

My order inside the bag!

My order inside the bag!

Each order comes with a pair of serving chopsticks

Each order comes with a pair of serving chopsticks

345g (left) vs 690g

345g (left) vs 690g

Twist-off closure system

Twist-off closure system

Unlike those I have tried in the past, the kimchi boasts a sweeter profile, and neither does it taste too sour or salty. Those with low tolerance to spice (like young children?) would also enjoy this version of kimchi for there isn’t a single hint of spiciness. Perhaps, this is why it doesn’t trigger my acid reflux! The kimchi is recommended to be eaten as a side dish or made into a stew, but I prefer to snack on it plain (thus the title of this review) in order to savour every crunch of it 😋

Fresh, crunchy and tantalising kimchi from JIN Kimchi!

Fresh, crunchy and tantalising kimchi from JIN Kimchi!

[690g] Double-seal around the lid

[690g] Double-seal around the lid

[690g] Placing my hand next to it to give you a better idea of its size.

[690g] Placing my hand next to it to give you a better idea of its size.

JIN Kimchi Original Cabbage Kimchi Nutrition Facts (image from JIN Kimchi)

JIN Kimchi Original Cabbage Kimchi Nutrition Facts (image from JIN Kimchi)

JIN Kimchi is undoubtedly one of the better-tasting kimchi in the market, but not without some drawbacks. For one, the smaller jar will already set you back more than double the price of what you can get – in much larger quantities – from supermarkets even before factoring in the delivery charges (and the packaging is likely the main driver of the expensive price tag). Despite being delicious, JIN Kimchi is not exempted from adverse effects such as bloating (especially among people – like me – who get gassy easily), excessive flatulence (read: smelly farts) and bad breath. Therefore, you should avoid consuming it prior to attending any major events. Last but not least, JIN Kimchi is highly addictive, so be prepared to finish the whole jar in one day.

Almost gone on the first day of opening this jar... No picture of my 345g jar unopened as I had not planned to write this review initially 😅

Almost gone on the first day of opening this jar… No picture of my 345g jar unopened as I had not planned to write this review initially 😅

You might be interested to know that JIN Kimchi also carries other forms of fermented food including cucumber, radish and spring onion – that is, if napa cabbage does not jive with your taste bud.

What are your thoughts on JIN Kimchi (if you’ve bought from them before) and their products? Let me know what you think in the comments below!

Thanks for reading!

JIN Kimchi · JIN-Kimchi.com · For more information, please visit JIN Kimchi FACEBOOK PAGE, INSTAGRAM or WEBSITE

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[SNACKS] NutsAndSnacks.com.sg: Specially Curated Nibbles for Your Midday Slump Needs

Workplace violence, fatigue and falls – to name a few – are some common examples of office hazards. But what most employee safety handbooks fail to mention is the inevitable rumbles in the tummy at odd times that could spiral out of control if we ignore them long enough!

Hold up – isn’t it bad to snack?

Contrary to popular belief, snacking (i.e. eating a small quantity of food) in between meals is actually healthy as it keeps our metabolism humming while providing us the needed energy to stay alert and focused at work – so long as we stick to the nutritious nibbles (as opposed to junk food). However, the increase in false advertising claims over food labelling in recent years has only made it more difficult for us to discern the truly healthy ones on the supermarket shelves. Recognising this challenge that we consumers had been facing, dedicated online businesses that specialise in wholesome snacks have sprung up to save us the hassle of scrutinising ingredient lists (and of course, our waistline!), one of which is Nuts and Snacks.

Nuts and Snacks Gift Box!

Nuts and Snacks Gift Box!

Nuts and Snacks is an online retailer and wholesaler for, as its name suggests, snacks that are not only nutritious, but also pleasing to the palate. Its catalogue boasts a wide array of dried fruits and nuts ranging from dried cranberries to Turkish apricots, and almond to macadamia (with an option of having them raw or baked) in 100g, 500g or 1 kg packets. Carefully selected to ensure that only the best possible ingredients are used, these munchies are touted as good sources of fat, fiber and protein. Furthermore, they are also fortified with vitamins, minerals and antioxidants such as magnesium and vitamin E, hence rendering them a healthy yet affordable option to tide you over till your next meal – without the guilt.

Kacang Puteh men are such a rare sight these days... but you can still get your Kacang Puteh fix on Nuts and Snacks! No sugared nuts, though!

Kacang Puteh men are such a rare sight these days… but you can still get your Kacang Puteh fix on Nuts and Snacks! No sugared nuts, though!

Going nuts over these nuts!

Going nuts over these nuts!

[100g packs] From bottom left, in anti-clockwise direction: Natural Macadamia Nuts, Tropical Trail Mix, Roasted Salted Mixed Nuts, Roasted Almonds (unsalted), Pistachio Nuts Roast (salted).

[100g packs] From bottom left, in anti-clockwise direction: Natural Macadamia Nuts, Tropical Trail Mix, Roasted Salted Mixed Nuts, Roasted Almonds (unsalted), Pistachio Nuts Roast (salted).

[100g packs] From bottom left, in anti-clockwise direction: Brazilian Delight, Roasted Hazelnuts, Roasted Cashews (unsalted), Pine Nuts.

[100g packs] From bottom left, in anti-clockwise direction: Brazilian Delight, Roasted Hazelnuts, Roasted Cashews (unsalted), Pine Nuts.

Each product page includes a detailed description of the product’s nutrition facts, suggested ways to enjoy it and its country of origin to aid you in making an informed choice, especially if you are placing corporate orders. After all, you definitely want to create a positive first impression for clients by engaging their taste buds when they pop by at your office.

Example of a Nuts and Snacks product page

Example of a Nuts and Snacks product page

Given that Nuts and Snacks is also a wholesaler, prices are relatively low (less than $5 for most 100g packets) and bulk purchases are rewarded with significant discounts and free local delivery (or flat rate of $5 for orders below $80 per location). Don’t worry about over-ordering or taste preferences. Since the products are kept in food-grade resealable airtight packaging with oxygen absorbers added to eliminate extra oxygen and prevent food degradation, you can be rest assured that your (unopened) snacks will remain fresh for the longest time (which is up to 3 months when stored in a cool dry place, according to Google)! Besides, aren’t we somehow more likely to reach for a plate of nuts than for a basket of wrapped sweets if they are both laid right in front of us?

Snacks for the non-nut lovers! [100g packs] From left: BBQ Chickpea Snack (not available anymore), Chilli Fried Rice Crackers.

Snacks for the non-nut lovers! [100g packs] From left: BBQ Chickpea Snack (not available anymore), Chilli Fried Rice Crackers.

[100g packs] From bottom left, in anti-clockwise direction: Banana Chips, Chili and Lime Snippets, Honey Dijon Snippets, Peanut Butter Pretzels

[100g packs] From bottom left, in anti-clockwise direction: Banana Chips, Chili and Lime Snippets, Honey Dijon Snippets, Peanut Butter Pretzels

[100g packs] From bottom left, in anti-clockwise direction: Turkish Apricots, Chocolate Pretzels, Supreme Nougat, Turkish Figs, Green Raisins

[100g packs] From bottom left, in anti-clockwise direction: Turkish Apricots, Chocolate Pretzels, Supreme Nougat, Turkish Figs, Green Raisins

There you have it. Stock up your pantry with these affordable wholesome nibbles from Nuts and Snacks and you will no longer need to fight off your hunger pains in the middle of the day 😋 Go on, your body (and wallet) will thank you!

What are your thoughts on Nuts and Snacks (if you’ve bought from them before) and their selection of products? Let me know what you think in the comments below!

Thanks for reading!

Nuts And Snacks Singapore · NutsAndSnacks.com.sg · For more information, please visit Nuts and Snacks FACEBOOK PAGE, INSTAGRAM or WEBSITE
PRODUCTs WERE SUPPLIED BY Nuts and Snacks Singapore FOR MY EDITORIAL CONSIDERATION. ALL OPINIONS EXPRESSED ARE MY OWN.

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[SNACKS] Aroma Truffle: Black Summer Truffle Chips in Original and Parmesan Cheese Flavours

Hello everyone!

When work gets overwhelming or uneventful, it’s human nature to gravitate towards snacks to keep us going. That’s why my personal pantry – or otherwise known as my kitchen – has been stocked with snacks (goodbye diet) ever since my home has doubled up as my workplace. The pile of midday nibbles lined up on the counter just keeps getting bigger, with the latest addition being the few packets of Aroma Truffle chips that I recently ordered from Shopee (evil, evil app 💸) upon a friend’s strong recommendation. This gourmet snack was the talk of the town for much of last year, but I just couldn’t justify paying S$10 for a packet of chips, that is, until now.

Delivery from Aroma Truffle! The opening of the bag was sealed.

Delivery from Aroma Truffle! The opening of the bag was sealed.

For the unacquainted, Aroma Truffle (self-proclaimed “The world’s strongest truffle brand”) was established in 2018 after co-founder Johnathan Chan conjured an inimitable truffle recipe while attending a fine food masterclass in France. This discovery sparked off the idea to create the first batch of black summer truffle chips and since then, two more flavours have been introduced, all of which made with natural ingredients that were extensively researched and guaranteed to be of superior quality. The black summer truffles used in making the chips, for instance, were farmed in, harvested and airflown from the Italian suburbs. The company has several physical stores including one in Hong Kong, and they are normally filled with the unmistakable scent of truffle which can be detected from a distance away. I’m not kidding!

Aroma Truffle Outlet at Jewel Changi Airport, level 2. Opens daily from 10am to 10pm. If you're based overseas and will be stopping by Singapore in the near future, you can consider getting your truffle chips here! (Image from Aroma Truffle Facebook)

Aroma Truffle Outlet at Jewel Changi Airport, level 2. Opens daily from 10am to 10pm. If you’re based overseas and will be stopping by Singapore in the near future, you can consider getting your truffle chips here! (Image from Aroma Truffle Facebook)

The packets of chips I bought came in a bundle of four comprising two flavours – original (3 packets) and Parmesan cheese (1 packet) – priced at S$39.95 which is merely 5 cents less than usual. I could have gotten them for cheaper at the flash sale but I didn’t have the patience to wait for it to happen.

Inside the fanciful paper bag

Inside the fanciful paper bag

Aroma Truffle Chips in Original and Parmesan Cheese flavours!

Aroma Truffle Chips in Original and Parmesan Cheese flavours!

After two dreadful weeks, my order finally reached me (Aroma Truffle’s customer service claimed that a technical error had resulted in a delay in the processing of all orders made on the same day as mine 🤨 so in hindsight, I should have held back) and I wasted no time to try both flavours. It’s great that the packaging has a ziplock closure to prevent the chips from becoming stale between uses so I didn’t have to finish both packets in one sitting.

Original Flavour (S$10)

Aroma Truffle Chips in Original flavour

Aroma Truffle Chips in Original flavour

Nutrition facts of the original flavour

Nutrition facts of the original flavour

Ingredient list for the original flavour

Ingredient list for the original flavour

These ridge-cut potato chips are said to have smothered in the finest grade of olive oil, then tossed with generous bits of black truffles and a hint of parsley. A closer look at the ingredient list (which isn’t available on their website, hmmm..) reveals that olive oil is, in fact, listed pretty much at the bottom while palm oil, a less healthy oil alternative, takes second spot (meaning that it has contributed the second-largest amount to the making of the product). Therefore, these chips might not be as healthy as the brand implies (and to be fair, they’re not explicitly touted as a healthy snack; just the copywriter doing his/her magic).

This is NOT a true representation of the quantity in the bag. (Sorry I couldn't resist the truffle fragrance and just jumped right into eating it before I remembered about taking a picture LOL!)

This is NOT a true representation of the quantity in the bag. (Sorry I couldn’t resist the truffle fragrance and just jumped right into eating it before I remembered about taking a picture LOL!)

Not too big, not too small!

Not too big, not too small!

The thickness

The thickness

Once the heat-sealed part of the packet was cut out (mind you, I haven’t even opened up the packet yet), my nose was instantly hit by a powerful aroma of truffle oil (hence the name 😝) and it was at that moment I knew I was in for a true trufflicious treat! The chips were thick and substantially crunchy (as opposed to the airy kind of crunchiness that we are all familiar with) and there was hardly any crushed pieces because the packaging was properly inflated with air to cushion them from any impact. The earthy notes of truffle was the strongest when first popped into the mouth. But that distinctive flavour was fleeting (although you get to experience it again in your next burp 🤣), leaving just the saltiness and taste of other flavoured seasoning behind towards the last bite.

Parmesan Cheese Flavour (S$10)

Aroma Truffle Chips in Parmesan Cheese flavour

Aroma Truffle Chips in Parmesan Cheese flavour

Aroma Truffle Chips in Parmesan Cheese flavour

Aroma Truffle Chips in Parmesan Cheese flavour

Nutrition facts of the Parmesan cheese flavour

Nutrition facts of the Parmesan cheese flavour

Ingredient list for the Parmesan cheese flavour

Ingredient list for the Parmesan cheese flavour

The texture of the chips was generally comparable to that of the original. The Parmesan cheese version was garnished with dill to accentuate its flavour and this strategy worked because the taste of cheese really stood out in this one, so much so that it kind of overshadowed the truffle (the scent still stands, but not as pronounced). Either that or the proportion of the truffle has reduced because I couldn’t really taste much of it. That said, both the cheese and truffle flavours complimented each other very well. However, because this essentially tastes like cheese crackers, I thought it would be more worthwhile to get the original flavour.

Refer to the picture above for the quantity instead 😁

Refer to the picture above for the quantity instead 😁

One chip

One chip

All in all, Aroma Truffle chips get my seal of approval in terms of taste, but will I repurchase? Probably not, unless the cravings for truffle hit me hard. My spending limit for snacks still remains at $5 unless they come with a chock-full of nutritional benefits. But if you have these lying around in the house when I’m there as a guest, do be mentally prepared for them to be guzzled by me.

What are your thoughts about Aroma Truffle chips? If you’ve tried both flavours, do you agree with my review? Let me know your views in the comments below!

Thanks for reading!

Aroma Truffle · Buy from PHYSICAL STORES · Buy from SHOPEE · For more information, please visit Aroma Truffle FACEBOOK PAGE, INSTAGRAM or WEBSITE

Follow me on Instagram and Facebook for bite-sized food updates!
Be sure to watch out for my Stories because that’s where I post my tasty encounters
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