I’ll admit it: I was skeptical about Caulitos. A chip made from lentils, rice, and cauliflower? Oh, be still my junk-food-loving heart. But in the name of investigative journalism—and my never-ending quest for guilt-free snacking—I took the plunge.
First impressions? These things look like tortilla chips that went to an expensive yoga retreat and returned with a new sense of self-worth. They’re triangular but thicker than your average chip, with a bubbled, wavy texture that screams, “I am artisanal, and you will respect me.” And let’s not forget they’re baked in avocado oil, which guarantees you’ll feel superior while eating them.
Now, the taste. You’ll be sorely disappointed if you expect an explosion of artificial flavor dust. Caulitos deliver a subtle, earthy crunch that grows on you—like that friend who insists on only eating organic but convinces you to try a kale smoothie. The blend of lentils, rice, and cauliflower creates a sturdy bite, which is great because no one wants a chip that crumbles under the pressure of thick guacamole.
Of course, we must address the elephant in the room: the cauliflower. Before you start hyperventilating, it doesn’t taste like you’re munching on a raw cruciferous vegetable. The flavor is mild, balanced, and surprisingly satisfying—like if a tortilla chip and a health-conscious nutritionist had a love child.
As for credentials, Caulitos come with more dietary badges than a Whole Foods employee. They’re non-GMO, gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan-friendly. Essentially, if you have any dietary restrictions—or enjoy feeling morally superior to your junk-food-eating friends—this chip has your back.
But let’s be honest. Are they better than your go-to nacho cheese-flavored chip? No, if you’re in it for nostalgia and that glorious orange dust. But if you want a snack that won’t make you question your life choices afterward, Caulitos are a solid pick. Plus, they’ve climbed Amazon’s Top 10 Puffed Snack rankings and are making waves on TikTok, proving that people will buy anything if the internet tells them to.
Would I rebuy them? Probably. Would I swap out my guilty-pleasure chips permanently? Let’s not get carried away. But if you’re looking for a crunchy, vaguely virtuous snack that won’t leave you covered in mysterious residue, Caulitos are worth a shot.