The Must-Have Trader Joe’s Dinner Find Hiding in the Frozen Section

WOODMERE, OH, USA - APRIL 30, 2022: The Trader Joe's store at Eton Center, an upscale shopping area on the eastern outskirts of Cleveland; this Trader Joe's is a standalone store.
Credit: Kenneth Sponsler/Shutterstock Credit: Kenneth Sponsler/Shutterstock

One of the best parts about shopping at Trader Joe’s is experiencing inspired dishes from all over the world. While frozen food finds are certainly not comparable to an authentic homemade dish, the grocer is pushing boundaries when it comes to incorporating new flavors into your meal routine. For example, a new frozen food, spotted by @traderjoeslist, just can’t seem to stay in stock.

The Beef Bulgogi, currently retailing for $12.99 for a 16-ounce pack, is reminiscent of the Korean dish translating to “fire meat.” The super thinly sliced beef is marinated in a mixture of soy sauce, mirin, and sesame oil, along with an array of spices. Whether you choose to throw this in the microwave or cook on the stovetop, the dish comes together easily.

“This is one of the best-tasting new items I have ever had from Trader Joe’s, and it will forever be a staple in my home,” wrote the creator. “Trader Joe’s nailed the sweet and savory flavor.”

The Instagrammer went on to say she used the beef to make tacos. Using the entire package came out to seven, so she recommends grabbing two boxes if you’re cooking for a few people. After assembling the beef on a tortilla, the creator added chopped onions, cilantro, shredded cheese, and a sauce composed of three parts mayo and one part Gochujang paste. 

Commenters chimed in with their own recommendations including pairing with the Trader Joe’s jicama wraps and kimchi. The grocer also suggests serving with a fresh green salad, roasted broccoli, or laying over a bed of fluffy white rice. For those of us who live a meatless lifestyle, Trader Joe’s is also selling a plant-based version made with soy protein. The opportunities are truly endless, and it’s easy to get creative with a dish as simple as this one. If you can manage to get your hands on a package, you’ll want to add this to your regular rotation.