Trader Joe's Contentious Truffle Hot Sauce Has Returned

Truffles, hot sauce, and Trader Joe's — it's the ultimate trifecta, or is it? The treasured grocery chain Trader Joe's has relaunched their Truffle Hot Sauce, and fans have a lot to say. Garnering all kinds of mixed reactions from TJ's fans, the spicy-meets-earthy condiment is too intriguing not to taste-test for yourself. Available only as a seasonal offering, there are a few things to know about the controversial condiment.

According to Fortune Business Insights, the global hot sauce market is rapidly increasing, mainly due to consumer demand for unique and bold flavors. As for the appeal of truffles, the desire for innovative flavors still rings true. However, The Guardian shares that our collective truffle obsession is also rooted in the fungus' power to provide significant umami richness. That said, when the two ingredients come together, they (should) create an explosion of flavor. 

With no shortage of ways to use any sort of hot sauce, the condiment can be whisked into dressings and marinades for a bit of fiery finesse. It can also make a great addition to sandwiches, burgers, and tacos when drizzled on top. You can even add layers of flavor to a Mexican pizza with a squirt of sauce. But, while the flaming sauce may boost flavor, not everyone is on the same page when it comes to Trader Joe's truffled rendition.

Retailing for $7.99 in stores, Trader Joe's Truffle Hot Sauce features a blend of chili peppers, a touch of honey, a splash of apple cider vinegar, and, of course, a black truffle infusion. With pungent truffle aromas, the condiment teems with savory, umami flavor — but that's not all. Boasting a lingering zestiness, the orange-hued sauce is balanced with a subtle sweetness, resulting in a distinctly unique product. But what does the Trader Joe's community have to say? 

Many have been praising the return of TJ's Truffle Hot Sauce. Several fans have expressed how delicious and truffle-forward the condiment is. One fan account even went so far as to call the dressing a dupe for the luxury truffle condiment TRUFF. That said, the reviews aren't unanimous. Some TJ's devotees took to Instagram to voice their opinions that the truffled-infused hot sauce is too overpowering and has some unpleasant and off-putting aromas. Another Trader Joe's patron went as far as to joke that the product gave her nightmares.

Definitely a divisive product, the hot sauce hasn't been the first (nor will it be the last) to put truffles on center stage. That said, given that Trader Joe's Truffle Hot Sauce is so controversial, the only way to develop your own opinion is to try it for yourself.