Behind the Aisles of TJ's

Kimbap was introduced at Trader Joe’s in early August and was sold out almost immediately nationwide. They just returned in mid-October and they still seem to have a choke-hold on the loyal TJ’s fanbase!

What is Kimbap you may ask?

Kimbap is a korean dish that is similar to sushi, but still has many differences. In Korea it is referred to as gimbap translating to seaweed (gim) rice (bap). It is usually made with rice, bulgogi, egg, radish, carrot, and spinach rolled in seaweed. Kimbap is different than sushi because each piece is seasoned individually, and it is made with sesame oil-seasoned rice, whereas a traditional sushi roll is made with vinegar-seasoned rice.

Trader Joe’s Kimbap uses a supplier in the Republic of Korea who uses an assortment of sauteed greens, crunchy root vegetables, crisp pickles, and braised tofu wraped in rice and seaweed. It is than sliced into two-or-three-bite-sized rounds, which are typically bigger than sushi pieces.

Kimbap is also traditionally meant to be eaten the day of to keep the ingrediants fresh. Trader Joe’s introduced the frozen kimbap, and it was immediately brought to social media because it was unique. Tiktok videos blew up and everyone wanted to try it, even people who had grew up eating it because it was different than what they were used to. It can be eaten cold or even heated up in the microwave, so it’s a great option for how you prefer it.

The Trader Joe’s Kimbap has no meat in it to help it stay fresh longer, so it is also a healthy vegan option. The tofu and vegetable filled pieces are also a different take on what kimbap is usually made with. While it can be made adaptable to any diet, this frozen option at Trader Joe’s ensures you won’t get sick, and it being frozen makes it very convenient, which is great for everyone!

With Trader Joe’s products quickly going in an out, this is a staple you must stock up on!

9 pieces (8.11 oz) for only $3.99 is a steal, so go get yourself some kimbap at your local Trader Joe’s today!