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Flavoring Your Fiestas: A Guide to Spicy Mexican Food
Many Mexican dishes are known for their extensive range of mild to intense heat. While this prevalence of spice may be due to the easy access to hot chile peppers, it may also provide a way to increase sweat production, thus cooling down the body in an otherwise tropical climate.
But where does that essential spice come from? In this article, we will explore the types of peppers that bring the heat in spicy Mexican food as well as the other unique spices and herbs that characterize the distinct flavor profile of traditional Mexican cuisine.
What Makes Mexican Food Spicy?
Like in some other types of cuisine (including Chinese and Thai dishes), many Mexican dishes pull their signature heat from the inclusion of various hot peppers. Not all peppers are created equal though, with each one bringing its own unique flavor and intensity to the food.
Jalapeños
Jalapeños are probably the first pepper that comes to mind when you think of spicy Mexican food. These peppers contain the active ingredient capsaicin, which gives them their fiery flavor and may also have some anti-inflammatory properties. You will find the majority of a pepper’s capsaicin in its seeds and pith rather than the actual flesh. This is why many authentic Mexican recipes leave the seeds in the jalapeños rather than removing them. For premium sweet potato chips with a spicy kick, try Jackson's Spicy Jalapeño flavor.
Chile Poblano
Hailing from Puebla, Mexico, poblano peppers are a slightly more mild pepper compared to jalapeños. However, the intensity of their heat does depend on different factors, including their ripeness. Green, unripe peppers (which is how they normally appear in most dishes) are typically less spicy than their red, ripened counterparts.
Chile Habanero
The habanero pepper is one of the hottest among the chile peppers, with more than 100 times the heat of a jalapeño. On top of that heat, though, rests a plethora of other flavors, including a distinct freshness along with floral and even fruity tastes that make it a perfect base for sauces and salsas alike. If you are a snacker who can’t get enough heat, try our new Habanero Nacho sweet potato chips.
Chile de Árbol
Though not as fiery as the habanero, árbol peppers do exceed their poblano and jalapeño brethren in the spice race. Notably slender and small with a deep, red hue, these peppers bring both a smokiness and a sweetness to any dish. Be careful not to burn them though, as this can quickly turn their unique, pleasant flavor toward the bitter side.
Other Unique Mexican Flavors
But heat is not the only defining flavor in traditional Mexican dishes. Mexican cuisine has a unique flavor profile characterized by the use of various herbs and spices as well.
Achiote
The name “achiote” actually refers to the seeds of the annatto tree, native to the Caribbean, Central and South America, and, of course, Mexico. Often, the seeds are ground up into achiote paste, which is then used to provide a vibrant reddish-brown color to various dishes including stews and sauces. The paste has a sweet, earthy flavor that pairs well with citrus.
Cumin
Another spice with a distinctly earthy though bitter flavor, cumin is the seed of a Mediterranean plant. It gets along well with the various chiles you often find in many Mexican dishes. This spice, however, does not show up as frequently in traditional Mexican cuisine as it does in the Tex-Mex varieties.
Garlic
The flavor profile for a number of Mexican dishes relies heavily on the use of garlic, whether fresh or in powder form. You might find it working in tandem with onion powder in salsas, taco seasoning, rice, and even soups or stews.
Epazote
Epazote is an herb that grows in Mexico as well as Central and South America. Its flavor profile is pungent, featuring an aromatic mix of anise, citrus, mint, and oregano. Though it may sometimes be utilized in sauces, epazote is most commonly incorporated as a seasoning for black and pinto beans due to its gas-relieving qualities.
Mexican Oregano
Though it is easy to confuse the two, Mexican Oregano is very different from Mediterranean Oregano. The Mexican variety of this spice has a much more citrus-y flavor alongside the usual grassy, earthy taste. It makes a great addition to taco seasonings, stews, and chilis.
Mexican Bay Leaves
This herb comes from an evergreen shrub native to Mexico. Though they are known for their herbal and floral flavors, the leaves are also slightly bitter in a similar way to Mexican Oregano. You may find them mainly in soups, stews, and broths.
Cilantro
Thanks to its aromatic qualities, cilantro naturally pairs with and highlights the flavors present in many Mexican dishes. It has found its way into becoming a traditional taco topping as well as an addition to the seasoning used on various types of both meat and seafood.
Popular Examples of Spicy Mexican Food
If you’re feeling brave enough to take your tastebuds on a fiery adventure, check out this short list of some of the best and spiciest dishes Mexican cuisine has to offer!
Chiles Rellenos
Chiles rellenos is a delicious dish consisting of poblano peppers stuffed with either meat, cheese, or both. Some may be breaded and deep fried while others are served with a tomato and onion sauce. Though poblano peppers are notoriously on the mild side, on occasion you can run into one with rather intense heat. So, every time you eat chiles rellenos, remember that you’re essentially playing a game of pepper roulette and might end up with a burning tongue!
Chilaquiles
If you need a dose of spice to wake you up in the morning, look to one of Mexico’s most famous breakfast foods: chilaquiles. This dish contains fried or toasted strips of corn tortilla (also known as totopos), smothered in either a red or green salsa, and sometimes served up with eggs, cheese, or shredded chicken. Depending on the peppers used in the salsa, chilaquiles can be whipped up as either a mild or a spicy dish according to your own taste preferences.
Mole
Mole refers to a family of sauces that are extremely common in Mexican cuisine. The sauce is most often used as a dressing for different meats. Just like other Mexican staples, mole can be either spicy or mild depending on the heat of the chile peppers used to make it. You can utilize the various types of mole to bring a smoky, spicy flavor to rice, chicken, enchiladas, and much more!
If you are into epic flavors, check out Jackson's Epic Flavor Variety Pack which features both Spicy Jalapeño and Habanero Nacho Sweet Potato chips!
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Educational
Amplifying Your Diet with Anti-Inflammatory Snacks
Has your doctor suggested cutting out inflammatory foods? If so, you’re not alone. Nearly 20% of the American population suffers from chronic inflammation. Or maybe you simply heard the buzz surrounding anti-inflammatory diets and came to see what all the fuss is about? Either way, we’ve got you covered. Keep reading to learn more about the causes of inflammation and how you can replace pro-inflammatory foods in your diet with delicious anti-inflammatory snacks instead.
How Can Food Be Anti-Inflammatory?
First of all, what exactly is inflammation? And what causes it? Inflammation occurs in the body when your immune system senses and subsequently attempts to fight off a foreign invader. These invaders can be anything from viruses and bacteria to chemicals or pollen. When an invader is actually present in your body, inflammation is a good thing. But sometimes inflammation persists even when there’s nothing to fight. This is known as chronic inflammation, and it has been linked to numerous health conditions such as arthritis, depression, cancer, diabetes, heart disease, and more.
So where does food come into play in all this? Well, research has pointed out that some foods may increase inflammation while others decrease it. This is partially due to the fact that pro-inflammatory foods (like those cooked in repeate dly used vegetable oil) lead to the production of free radicals while anti-inflammatory foods contain antioxidants. A healthy body needs a balance of free radicals and antioxidants to prevent oxidative stress, which is caused by free radicals and often contributes to chronic inflammation. The antioxidants present in anti-inflammatory snacks help fight back against this free radical damage.
Below, we’ve listed some examples of both pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory foods.
Pro-Inflammatory Foods:
Anything high in refined carbohydrates or saturated fats.
Red meat.
Artificial sweeteners.
Dairy products.
Anti-Inflammatory Foods:
Omega 3 fatty acids (often found in fatty fish).
Nuts and seeds.
Green leafy vegetables.
Fruits (especially berries).
Coffee.
Why Reach for Anti-Inflammatory Snacks?
Aside from worsening existing inflammation, pro-inflammatory foods might also contribute to the development of serious diseases when consumed frequently and in large quantities. In fact, one study conducted in 2020 found that those who consistently ate pro-inflammatory foods were at a significantly higher risk of developing cardiovascular disease and had a worse cholesterol profile compared to those who had a less inflammatory diet.
So, even if you don’t experience chronic inflammation, sticking to anti-inflammatory snacks could help lower your risk of developing health conditions associated with inflammation. In addition to cardiovascular disease, these conditions might include diabetes, cancer, obesity, and Alzheimer’s.
Choosing the Best of the Best
The best anti-inflammatory diet shouldn’t just avoid pro-inflammatory foods though. It should also make an effort to incorporate anti-inflammatory snacks as much as possible. When purchasing anti-inflammatory snacks, it’s important to keep an eye on the ingredients to make sure what you’re getting is truly made without any inflammatory agents. You may want to avoid foods containing artificial sweeteners, saturated fats, and excessive amounts of margarine or shortening. Snacks cooked in vegetable oil may also be pro-inflammatory.
Anti-Inflammatory Snacks for Every Type of Diet
Contrary to popular belief, making the switch to anti-inflammatory snacks is pretty easy. There are plenty of delicious anti-inflammatory foods out there that can fit in with just about any dietary restrictions. Let’s run through a quick list of a few examples.
Vegan Snacks
Fruits and veggies are perhaps the best examples of anti-inflammatory snacks that are also vegan. Green leafy vegetables (like spinach and kale) and berries (like strawberries and blackberries) are packed with antioxidants, helping your body combat oxidative stress caused by an imbalance of free radicals.
If you’re looking to spice up your boring fruit and veggie routine though, consider dipping your raw veggies in hummus for an added boost of anti-inflammatory properties. Hummus is made from chickpeas, which are also packed full of antioxidants. And, for our fruit lovers, try blending up a fruit smoothie or channeling your inner child with some applesauce. Applesauce is particularly high in fiber, making it another great addition to an anti-inflammatory diet.
Gluten Free Snacks
Found in various types of fatty fish, omega 3 fatty acids are a fabulous gluten free source of antioxidants. Examples of fatty fish include salmon, mackerel, herring, oysters, and anchovies. Even if you’re not a huge fan of the taste of fish, there are ways to make this snack more palatable. Consider trying out smoked dishes like smoked salmon and utilizing anti-inflammatory herbs and spices such as garlic, cloves, rosemary, or cilantro.
Nuts and seeds (like flax seeds, chia seeds, and walnuts) are another source of omega 3 fatty acids. Flax seeds and chia seeds can be easily incorporated into your usual breakfast routine, especially in oatmeal. Nuts like almonds and walnuts can be enjoyed on their own or with a very light sprinkling of sea salt.
Your One-Stop Snack: Jackson’s Chips
Looking for a snack that meets all the requirements we’ve talked about today? Look no further than Jackson’s Sweet Potato Chips! Our delicious chips are vegan, gluten free, and made only with premium oils, never vegetable oil. In fact, some of our snacks utilize avocado oil, with avocados being a great source of antioxidants like vitamin E. Not to mention, sweet potatoes on their own have been classed as an anti-inflammatory food, making these chips a better-for-you alternative to the traditional potato chip, which is often drowned in saturated fats. Pick up a bag of Jackson’s Sweet Potato Chips online or in your local grocery store to start snacking super today!
Key Takeaways
Inflammation occurs when your body attempts to fight off an invading substance.
Inflammatory foods contain free radicals, which cause oxidative stress, while anti-inflammatory foods are high in antioxidants to combat free radical damage.
Replacing an inflammatory diet with anti-inflammatory snacks not only reduces chronic inflammation, but it could also lower your risk of developing certain health conditions related to inflammation, such as diabetes, cancer, cardiovascular disease, obesity, and Alzheimer’s.
Beware of snacks cooked in vegetable oil or that contain high amounts of artificial sweeteners and saturated fats.
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Educational
Healthy and Simple Paleo Snacks to Fuel Your Body
The paleo diet, short for the “paleolithic diet,” is one that emphasizes on the ingestion of whole, unprocessed foods. It’s meant to mimic the eating habits of human ancestors thousands of years ago. While it’s possible that the paleo diet contributes to overall better health, it can limit your snacking choices. Here’s a guide to selecting quick, paleo friendly snacks that are healthy and delicious!
What is the Paleo Diet?
Although it’s impossible to determine what exactly humans ate thousands of years ago, many researchers believe that it consisted of specific whole foods. The paleo diet is designed to resemble what human ancestors ate while incorporating modern meals. The idea follows the theory that a whole-based food diet with a physically active lifestyle contributes to better health.
Granted, there’s no “right” or “wrong” way to approach the paleo diet. Since paleolithic humans had to rely on the resources around them, there are variations people can take with their meal planning. Some people focus more on low-carb nutrition rich in animal foods while others take the opposite approach with a high-carb, plant-based diet.
Benefits of the Paleo Diet
Studies conducted on the paleo diet suggest that it could contribute to weight loss and overall improvement in health. Many people also find the paleo diet a bit easier to accomplish than others since it focuses more on ingesting whole foods. The paleo diet is also unique in its emphasis on physical activity alongside meal planning, providing a comprehensive experience.
Although more research has to be conducted, it could have the potential to be a diet for type 2 diabetes treatment. Also, depending on what foods you select with the paleo diet, it may lead to better heart health. Some other potential benefits of the paleo diet include reduced blood pressure, improved gut health, and better cholesterol.
Read: Paleo vs Keto Diet
How to Select Paleo-Friendly Snacks
The great news about the paleo diet is that it’s relatively easy to find snacks to eat, even on store shelves! It’s also one that can be adapted and personalized to your specific needs and food interests. Generally speaking, the paleo diet consists of an everyday intake of meats, fresh produce, nuts, herbs, fats, and oils.
With that said, what should you try to avoid when selecting paleo-friendly snacks? One of the first to decline is dairy, sugar, or anything containing high-fructose corn syrup. This is because the paleo diet is designed to help you stay away from processed foods. You may also want to avoid some specific legumes, grains, and vegetable oils. When in doubt, always check the nutrition labels!
Delicious Paleo Snacks
Whole Fruit
Any whole fruit will make perfect paleo-friendly snacks. This is because whole fruits are rich with protein and plant compounds that contribute to decreased inflammation risks for chronic disease. Some examples of nutritious fruits to add to your paleo diet include apples, bananas, oranges, avocados, and pears. Fruit can also help you maintain a healthy body weight while being paired with other nutritious snacks like nuts, seeds, and nut butter. Make sure to purchase fresh fruit from the produce section when shopping for snacks.
Fresh Veggie Sticks With Dairy-Free Dip
You can never go wrong with fresh veggies! Along with their extremely nutritious properties, vegetables make for very flexible snacks that can be mixed and matched with other foods. Slice a variety of fresh veggies like cucumbers, carrots, zucchini, bell peppers, and celery for convenient snacks to eat on the go! These particular vegetables are low in calories while being high in vitamins and minerals, including antioxidants that make for a very healthy snack. If you need a little bit of extra flavor, pair your veggies with dairy-free dips.
Paleo Oatmeal
Although traditional oatmeal doesn’t fall under the paleo diet, it can be adjusted to meet your nutritional needs. Using grain-free oatmeal, mix together 1 cup (237 ml) of coconut milk with ¼ cup (28 grams) of almond flour. From there, sprinkle in ¼ cup of unsweetened coconut with 1 tablespoon of ground flax seed, 1 teaspoon of coconut oil, ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract, and ¼ teaspoon of cinnamon in a pot. Bring the oatmeal to a simmer until it reaches your preferred consistency. Finish it off with a paleo-friendly topping of your choice!
Paleo Friendly Sweet Potato Chips
If you’re in the mood for a crunchy, chip-like snack, certain brands of sweet potato chips (like Jackson's) fall under the paleo-friendly category! Even so, always make sure to check nutritional labels prior to purchasing sweet potato chips.
Are you currently looking for snacks that coincide with the paleo diet? Jackson’s is proud to deliver paleo-friendly sweet potato chips to fulfill your snacking needs! Browse through our online shop to order a packet of Jackson’s Sweet Potato Chips today!
Read next: Comparing Paleo vs Whole30
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Educational
Kettle Chips vs. Regular Chips: Snack Showdown
Few snacks are as iconic as the mighty potato chip. Today, you have lots of options: ridged chips, regular chips, kettle chips, potato crisps, and more. Of these options, kettle chips are actually the oldest and most traditional. These chips are beloved for their crunch, but how do they compare to today’s regular potato chips? In the battle of kettle vs regular chips, there’s a lot to consider when making your choice.
Kettle vs Regular Chips
Kettle chips are made the same way that the very first potato chips were. They are made from sliced potatoes (thicker than normal) fried in a kettle or vat of hot oil. This submersion process does several things for the flavor of the chip. Each time a new batch of potatoes are added, the temperature of the oil drops and the potatoes take slightly longer to cook. This means that the starch is able to absorb more moisture and dissolve, resulting in a thick, crunchy chip with a richer flavor.
Regular chips are made with a process called continuous fry. This process involves the potatoes being fried on a conveyor belt which continuously moves through hot oil kept at a steady temperature. These chips take less time to cook, making them lighter and crispier than kettle chips.
Jackson’s chips come in many varieties including Classic Kettle and Sweet Potato Chips. Both are kettle-cooked in avocado oil!
Read: Why Avocado Oil Kettle Chips are Taking Over
Are Kettle Chips Healthier?
Not always - kettle chips and regular chips are both made of potatoes fried in oil. Any nutritional difference comes from the type of oil used and flavorings added to the chip. However, some chips are better for you than others. Chips made with quality, real-food ingredients are going to have fewer negatives. Look for chips that avoid cheap, poor-quality ingredients. You can also look for chips made with nutritious, nutrient-dense oils like avocado oil.
Nutrition Information
The nutritional value of potato chips varies based on what is added to the chips during the cooking process. Some chips are ultra processed with colors, flavorings, and preservatives. Others are produced with real ingredients, which lets the natural taste of the potato come through. This keeps saturated fat and sodium levels as low as possible.
Are Kettle Chips Gluten Free?
Potatoes don’t have any gluten in them. Thus, by nature, kettle chips are gluten-free. However, there’s always a chance of cross-contamination in any chip production facility. Additionally, some flavorings may have gluten in them. These include malt vinegar and anything containing wheat starch.
Flavoring Variety
Kettle chips come in many varieties and flavors. If you have a favorite regular potato chip flavor, it’s likely that you’ll be able to find that same flavor in a kettle chip. Due to their longer cooking process, kettle chips usually have a more intense flavor than regular chips.
Jackson’s chips come in many varieties including Sea Salt, Carolina BBQ, and Farmhouse Ranch. Each of these flavors is fresh and delicious, but more importantly, they’re safe for families with gluten sensitivities. Compared to some mass-market options, everything we use in our chips is gluten-free.
Acrylamide and Potato Chips
One additional health concern that people have about potato chips is exposure to acrylamide. Acrylamide can form when starchy foods like potatoes are baked, roasted, or fried at high temperatures. Acrylamide is a carcinogen, but not when you eat it.
There is no link between cancer and dietary acrylamide. The risk of acrylamide comes when you are exposed to it for years during heavy industrial processes. In other words, you don’t need to worry about it and you can continue to enjoy potato chips!
The Benefits of Avocado and Coconut Oil
The type of oil a chip is fried in makes a huge health difference. Most commercially produced chips are fried in seed oils such as corn oil, canola oil, sunflower oil, or safflower oil. These oils are cheap and easy to produce. They don't have a heavy flavor and are favorites for big industrial batches of chips.
However, seed oil-free oils like avocado and coconut, make a world of difference. Avocado oil is beneficial for blood pressure, blood cholesterol, inflammation, and digestion. It contains antioxidants and can enhance the absorption of important nutrients. Coconut oil can improve your HDL (“good”) cholesterol levels and is also an important source of antioxidants. It’s a good source of energy for your brain, too!
About Sweet Potato (and Classic) Chips
Another important chip consideration isn’t just kettle vs regular chips, but potato vs sweet potato chips. At Jackson’s Chips, we only use classic white and premium sweet potatoes for our chips. Sweet potatoes are lower on the glycemic index than regular potatoes and are packed with nutrients.
When you compare sweet potatoes to regular potatoes, you’ll notice that sweet potatoes have more fiber, vitamin C, magnesium, calcium, phosphorus, and potassium. They’re an amazing source of vitamin A as well as beta-carotene.
Read: Sweet Potatoes vs Regular Potatoes
Jackson’s Cooking Process
At Jackson’s, we want to make the tastiest and best chips possible. For us, this means sourcing potatoes and frying them in clean, nutritious avocado oil. We kettle cook all of our chips at low heat, which allows our clean oils to maintain their nutritional value. Lower heat also cooks the potatoes through to give them a uniform crunch without leaving them full of oil. Our cooking process means that you are able to get the full benefits of sweet potatoes and oil without losing nutrients to heat or overprocessing.
We believe that our small-batch chips are the most amazing snacks you can eat. Our chips can be found online or in many national retailers. This includes Costco, Sam’s Club, and many more. Look for our products in a store near you and see for yourself where you stand in the battle of kettle vs. regular chips.
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Educational
10 Amazing Vegan Snacks
While being on a vegan diet is rewarding, it can also be difficult to find foods that don’t contain animal products. Plus, if you don’t have the time or appetite to make a full meal, you need to eat something to temporarily sustain your body. Thankfully, there are a variety of vegan-friendly snacks to choose from!
Healthy Vegan Snacks
As difficult as it may appear, many vegan-friendly snack options are very easy to make. There are several foods that require little to no preparation and are easily found in grocery stores or online. You might even be surprised to learn that snacks like Oreos and Sour Patch Kids are completely vegan! Even so, if you’re looking for healthier snack alternatives, there are a variety of options to choose from. Here are some examples of vegetarian and vegan snacks that are delicious, nutritious, and convenient!
1. Trail Mix
Trail mix is a classic snack that can contain a wide variety of nutritious ingredients. It’s a completely plant-based food that can be a great source of protein, fiber, and fats. Vegan-based trail mix is mixed with foods such as seeds, dried fruit, nuts, crackers, coconut, whole grains, and chocolate. When buying trail mix from the store, pay close attention to its nutrition information to make sure they’re completely vegan. You can also make your own trail mix at home with your favorite ingredients.
2. Fruits With Nut Butter
Fruits paired with your favorite choice of nut butter are always going to be flavorful and nutritious. Fruits are an important part of the vegan diet since they provide essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Meanwhile, nut butter is both low carb and rich in protein to help you feel energized. You can choose specific nut butter without additional sugars, salts, and oil if you’d like to increase your snack’s nutritional value. Some popular combinations include bananas and apples with peanut, cashew, or almond butter.
3. Roasted Chickpeas
Also known as garbanzo beans, chickpeas are circular, yellow legumes that are packed with nutritional value. Just one cup of chickpeas provides up to 14 grams of protein along with 71% of the daily value (DV) for folate. Chickpeas are particularly delicious when baked and roasted! Using your preferred choice of seasonings and oil (we recommend avocado oil), you can bake chickpeas to create a crunchy snack! Place them on a baking sheet and place them in the oven at 450 degrees Fahrenheit until they reach your desired texture.
4. Edamame With Sea Salt
If you’ve never heard of edamame, you’ve likely seen them without even realizing it. This is just a fancy word for an immature pod of soybeans. Even so, when boiled or steamed, these little plants become a highly nutritious snack! One cup of edamame contains up to 17 grams of protein in less than 200 calories. Once they’ve been prepared by means of boiling or steaming, add a little sea salt before chewing on the edamame, enjoying the beans inside.
5. Guacamole With Crackers
Guacamole is the quintessential vegan dip. Made from avocado, lime juice, garlic, and onion, it perfectly complements a variety of other vegan-friendly snacks! Guacamole can be made at home or purchased without additional ingredients like sugar and salt. Since it’s made from avocado, it’s a very nutritious dip full of monounsaturated fats, potassium, and fiber. Paired with 100% whole grain crackers, guacamole is a very nutritious snack!
6. Fruit Leather
Looking for alternative fruity snacks? Look no further than fruit leather! These delicious and healthy snacks are made from thinly flattened fruit puree. These are dried and sliced before being made as vegan-friendly snacks. These include similarly nutritious ingredients as their fruit counterparts. Fruit leather can also be rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Even so, if you purchase pre-packaged fruit leather, make sure to read the labels carefully to avoid added sugars or colors.
7. Smoothies
A snacking staple, smoothies are incredibly adaptable and capable of being made of fruits or veggies. They’re great for busy people as they can be packaged and consumed on the go. Many people pair fruits and vegetables that are rich in vitamins and minerals to get their necessary nutrients. Smoothie bases can consist of plant-based milk or water with foods such as bananas, spinach, berries, or kale.
8. Nut and Fruit Bars
Need a quick snack to get you through the day? A fruit or nut bar will be able to energize you until your next meal! It should be mentioned that certain brands are more vegan-friendly than others, so it’s always important to read nutrition labels carefully. Some well-known vegan brands include LaraBars, KIND bars, and GoMacro bars. You can also make your own fruit and nut bars so you know exactly what you’re consuming and which nutrients your body needs.
9. Dark Chocolate
Contrary to popular belief, certain types of chocolate can be somewhat healthy in moderation. Many people need to satisfy their sweet tooth somehow, but that can feel difficult when on a vegan diet. If you need a sweeter snack to satisfy your taste buds, eat a few bars of dark chocolate. Dark chocolate is also very versatile, capable of pairing up with many of the previously mentioned snacks. Try to look for dark chocolate bars with at least 65% cacao to get some nutritional benefits from its plant compounds.
10. Veggie Chips
On the flip side, if you’re in need of something a little more crunchy and salty, veggie chips are a fantastic vegan snack. If you’d like to make them yourself at home, check out our homemade sweet potato chips recipe. Of course, you can visit our online store to purchase a bag of Jackson’s Sweet Potato Chips today!
Depending on the type of vegetable you choose, veggie chips can be very nutritious. For example, sweet potato chips are an excellent low calorie source of vitamin A.
If you’re on a vegan diet and searching for the perfect snack to invigorate your day, look no further than Jackson’s Sweet Potato Chips! Our delicious munchables are completely vegan, gluten free, and paleo-friendly, making them a great addition to any healthy vegan snack list.
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Educational
Down With Sodium and Hurray for Flavorful Snacks!
It is a well-known fact that many people eat way too much salt. It’s everywhere especially in restaurants and in pre-prepared foods. According to the CDC, it is recommended to stay below 2,300 mg of sodium daily.
If that is the case, then how can you find low sodium snacks that are also good for your heart? They are so hard to find and even low sodium foods can have high sodium!
Why is too Much Salt a Bad Thing?
The body needs sodium. Without it in our bodies, our nerves begin to shut down and the human brain begins to have issues working.
There is a laundry list of side effects and potential diseases that can affect the body if the daily sodium intake is constantly too high. There’s the short term bloat, swelling, and inflammation; and then the long term heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, hypertension and kidney stones … and that’s the short list.
It doesn’t matter who you are: if you consume too much salt, there will be a side effect or two.
If that isn’t concerning enough, eating too much sodium can cause the body to add water to the circulatory system. The excess water causes water retention and increases blood volume to dangerous levels: this is why you feel thirsty when eating salty snacks. When blood levels are chronically high, this causes stress on the veins, arteries, and organs connected to the circulatory system which includes the kidneys.
How to Reduce Your Daily Sodium Intake
The fastest way to reduce daily sodium intake is to stick to low sodium snacks, foods, and unsalted variations of go-to snacks. Mass produced low-sodium options can still be full of salt. This is the reason why we have our Unsalted Sweet Potato Kettle Chips: healthier options, healthier ingredients, heroic snacks!
Other than religiously reading nutrition labels, here are a few pointers on how to reduce your daily sodium intake:
Anything that is pickled, brined, barbecued, cured, smoked, and more is going to have higher sodium content.
Ask for no salt or no added salt at restaurants.
Ask for the nutrition facts at chain restaurants.
Buy veggies that don’t have salty sauces included.
Check the sodium levels on all packaged foods.
Check your condiments and go for low or reduced salat versions.
Cook pastas, rice, and hot cereal without salt.
Cook your food in a variety of ways to bring out natural flavors.
Drain and rinse canned beans: most of the sodium is in the liquid!
Eat foods with higher potassium levels.
Look for unsalted canned vegetables.
Pick fresh and frozen meats without sodium solution.
Reduce sodium by combining low/no sodium food with regular food.
Season your food with anything from garlic to citrus.
Stick with portion control.
Taste before adding salt.
Another great way to reduce your sodium intake is to take a peep at the snacks we’ve collected below!
Low Sodium Snack Recipes
If you are on a low sodium diet, or you want to reduce your daily sodium intake, there are several snacks that you can quickly make and add to your meal plan.
Fruits and Vegetables - Naturally Low Sodium
Whole fruits and veggies are always a great low sodium snack.
Apples
Bananas
Blueberries
Broccoli
Cabbage
Carrots
Cauliflower
Clementines or oranges
Cucumber
Melon
Pineapple chunks
Raspberries
Strawberries
Edamame
Quick Homemade Low Sodium Snacks
These quick snacks can be prepared ahead of time or made in fifteen minutes.
Avocado Toast
Apple and Peanut Butter
Ants on a Log
Yogurt Parfait
Homemade Popcorn
Dates and Nut Butter
Prepared Low Sodium Snacks
Pre-prepared snacks are great to have in the refrigerator or pantry.
Veggies and Greek Yogurt Dip
Homemade trail mix
Kale Chips
Homemade hummus and Veggies
Oven-Dried Tomatoes
Fruit and Veggie Smoothies
Overnight Oats
Unsalted Snacks
Dried unsalted edamame
Unsalted nuts
Unsalted Sweet Potato Chips
Conclusion - Low Sodium Snacks
The best snack you can grab, in our opinion, is Jackson’s Unsalted Sweet Potato Kettle Chips. Unlike low-sodium foods or reduced-sodium foods, our chips boast exactly 0mg of sodium! Instead, the flavor in our chips comes directly from ancestral coconut oil and nutrient dense sweet potatoes.
Since salt can cause so much inflammation when eaten in excess, we decided long ago to have an unsalted version of our delicious chips. Not only can you snack on the several items we gave above, but you can also add our chips to any meal be it breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Check out our recipes here to get your creativity flowing!
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Recipe
Breaded Chicken Nuggets and Frosty Dupe Recipe
If you're living your life gluten-free and really miss out on chicken nuggets, then do we have the recipe for you! Our good friend Nicola Burbank gave us an amazing recipe that allows you to enjoy a fast food chicken nugget AND frosty that you can make at home!
Make sure you get your favorite bag of Jackson's Chips for this one. Nicola used our Avocado Oil Sea Salt chips, but try using our Avocado Oil BBQ or Spicy Jalapeño chips for some extra flavor!
Do you have a favorite recipe that uses Jackson's sweet potato chips as an ingredient? We'd love to try it! Email us info@jacksonschips.com
Below is the full recipe and a How-To video!
Wendy's Chicken Nugget Dupe
Ingredients:
1 bag Jackson chips sea salt (or any flavor of your choosing)
1/2 cup gluten free baking flour (I used Bob's Redmill 1 to 1)
1/2 tbls chili powder
1/2 tsp paprika
1/4 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp sea salt
2 cups almond milk
1 egg
1 lbs Chicken breast
Directions:
Cut chicken into nugget sized pieces and place in a medium bowl and add almond milk. Let refrigerate for 1 hour. While chicken and milk sit make breadcrumb. Place Jackson chips in a food processor or blender and blend till a breadcrumb consistency. In a large ziplock bag add breadcrumb from your chips, flour and seasoning and mix well. Once chicken is ready scramble 1 egg and fold into milk mixture. Using a fork or tongs take chicken out of milk/egg mixture and add to the ziplock bag with breading seal bag once all chicken is added and shake to combine chicken and breading. Preheat oven to 400 degrees and line a medium baking sheet with parchment paper add chicken and bake for 12-15 minutes each side or until crisp and chicken is cooked.
Wendy's Frosty Protein Packed Dupe
Ingredients:
1/4 cup almond + coconut creamer
1/2 cup dairy free chocolate ice cream
1 scoop chocolate protein powder
Directions:
In a blender add all ingredients and blend well till a frosty like consistency. Pair with Jackson Chip's Chicken Nuggets!
And of course, don't forget to shop Jackson's Chips on our website at the link below!
BUY CHIPS HERE
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Recipe
Sweet Potato Chip Nachos FTW
Our good friend Krysten is a MASTER at creating tasty treats using just a couple real ingredients! Sound familiar? Here are two of her favorite sweet treats using Jackson's Chips!
SWEET NACHOS
Just 3 ingredients in these Sweet Potato Chips made with coconut oil and sea salt. Totally vegan, gluten free, paleo, peanut free and super yum!All you need is a big handful of your favorite Jackson's sweet potato chips, a few banana slices, some melted chocolate to drizzle and some marshmallows if you want to be a lil extra… maybe a dash of sea salt and shredded coconut, too!
BANANA SNACKS
DO THIS ASAP! Totally vegan, gluten free, paleo, peanut free and super yum! And only 5 ingredients to make this yummy snack!🍌 Slice bananas🥜 Add creamy PB✨ Sprinkle chia seeds🍠 Crumble Sweet Potato Chips🍫 Drizzle with melted chocolatePop them in the fridge for about 20 minutes until chocolate hardens and badda boom!"
Gotta favorite recipe using Jackson's? We'd love to hear it! info@jacksonschips.com
Want to see another delicious recipe? Check out this one for Taco Dip HERE.
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Retailers
Elevate Your Snack Game with Jackson’s Sweet Potato Chips at Natural Grocers!
Snacking just got more delicious at Natural Grocers with the introduction of Jackson’s Sweet Potato Chips! Crafted from 100% premium sweet potatoes and cooked in high-quality avocado oil, these chips offer a superior snacking experience that caters to wellness-conscious consumers. Jackson’s Sweet Potato Chips are the perfect choice for those seeking a wholesome yet tasty snack. Available at Natural Grocers, these chips are easily accessible and ideal for any snacking occasion.
Look for These Bold Jackson’s Flavors at Natural Grocers
Next time you’re at Natural Grocers, check for one of these 3 delicious flavors of Jackson’s Sweet Potato Chips: Sea Salt, Wavy Sea Salt, and Spicy Jalapeño.
Where Can I buy Jackson’s Sweet Potato Chips at Natural Grocers?
Whether you enjoy traditional in-store shopping or prefer the ease of online shopping, getting your hands on Jackson’s Sweet Potato Chips is simple! Use the store locator on our website to find the nearest Natural Grocers and pick up your favorite flavors. If you prefer shopping from home, you can easily order through our online store and have your chips delivered right to your doorstep. No matter how you like to shop, enjoying the delicious and nutritious taste of Jackson’s chips is always convenient.
A Match Made in Snacking Heaven: Jackson's and Natural Grocers
Jackson’s Sweet Potato Chips and Natural Grocers are a perfect pair, bringing together a shared commitment to quality and wellness. Both brands focus on providing consumers with nutritious, delicious options that fit into a better lifestyle. Jackson’s chips, made from real sweet potatoes and cooked in avocado oil, align seamlessly with Natural Grocers' dedication to offering great products. This partnership ensures that wellness-conscious shoppers have access to a superior snacking experience. Together, Jackson’s and Natural Grocers make it easier than ever to enjoy tasty, wholesome snacks that support your wellness goals.
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Retailers
Savor the Crunch: Jackson's Sweet Potato Chips Now at Woodman's
Snack lovers rejoice! Jackson’s Sweet Potato Chips are now available at Woodman’s Markets! If you’re on the hunt for a snack that combines flavor, crunch, and nutrition, look no further than Jackson’s Sweet Potato Chips. Made from 100% non-GMO sweet potatoes and kettle-cooked to perfection, these chips offer a delectable balance of sweet and salty, with a texture that’s satisfyingly crispy. Available at Woodman’s, a renowned retailer known for its wide selection and great value, Jackson’s Sweet Potato Chips are easy to find and hard to resist.
Look for These Bold Jackson's Flavors at Woodman's
Next time you’re at Woodman’s Market, check for one of these 5 delicious flavors of Jackson’s Sweet Potato Chips: Sea Salt, Carolina BBQ, Farmhouse Ranch, Spicy Jalapeño, and Habanero Nacho.
Where Can I buy Jackson’s Sweet Potato Chips at Woodman’s?
Whether you’re a fan of traditional in-store shopping or prefer the convenience of online shopping, getting your hands on a bag of Jackson’s Sweet Potato Chips has never been easier! Using our store locator, you can quickly find the nearest Woodman’s Market and stock up on your favorite flavors. Alternatively, if you prefer to shop from the comfort of your own home, our online store is at your service. Simply place your order and have your chips delivered straight to your door. With both options available, you can enjoy the delicious and nutritious taste of Jackson’s chips no matter where you are or how you like to shop.
The Perfect Duo: Jackson’s Sweet Potato Chips and Woodman’s Market
Woodman’s Markets, established in 1919, are known for their vast selection of high-quality, fresh, and affordable groceries. At Jackson’s, we share this commitment to quality, offering nutritious alternatives like our Sweet Potato Chips, made from sweet potatoes with just a pinch of sea salt. Our chips are gluten-free, grain-free, non-GMO, and perfect for vegan, paleo, or Whole30 diets. Find Jackson’s Sweet Potato Chips at your local Woodman’s or order online for a delicious, healthy snack delivered straight to your door.
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Recipe
Recipe
Cheesy Green Bean Casserole Recipe
Now that the holiday season is upon us, we know some of you may be tired of the same old thing. Well here is a tasty twist to a family holiday classic!
Ingredients:
2 cups fresh green beans, cleaned and trimmed
1 clove garlic
1 tablespoon butter or ghee
1/2 teaspoon salt & pepper to taste
1/3 cup shredded or grated Parmesan cheese
1 carton (11oz.) cream of mushroom soup
1 cup of lightly crushed Jackson’s Spicy Jalapeño chips (or any Jackson's Chip)
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 375.
Melt the butter or ghee in a large, oven proof pan or cast iron skillet over medium heat.
When fat has melted, add the garlic and sauté until fragrant.
Add cleaned and trimmed green beans and cook until bright green, about 5 minutes.
Add salt, pepper, mushroom soup and Parmesan cheese. Mix well.
Cook in a 375 degree oven until hot and bubbly, about 15 minutes.
Remove from oven, top with the lightly crushed Spicy Tomatillo chips and bake for another 5ish minutes.
Remove from oven and serve immediately.
Enjoy!
Find Spicy Jalapeño Here!
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