Costco’s Bibigo Kimchi & Cheese Rice Ball tastes decent but could be more than that, which could be something else. It blends traditional Korean flavors with a modern twist, offering a moderately satisfying experience, though it might not wow more discerning tastes.
I have extensive experience with this famous warehouse club, having tried countless food products from various retailers, including Costco.
Other items from Costco that I like or not include: Costco Maven’s Durian Ice Cream Review, Costco Kellogg’s Eggo Homestyle Waffles Review, Costco Universal Bakery Strawberry Belgian Waffles Review, Costco Schwartz Brothers Bakery Organic Everything Bagel Chips, Minh Mini Chicken Egg Rolls Review , Costco David’s Cookies Butter Pecan Meltaways Review, Costco Universal Bakery Traditional Aussie Bites Review Costco Vita Coco Coconut Water Review, and Costco Sugar Bowl Bakery Petite Palmiers Review
Costco Bibigo Kimchi & Cheese Rice Ball
Taste test
The rice balls have plenty of kimchi flavor and a noticeable spiciness that hits the palate immediately. However, little cheese flavor is coming through despite being filled with processed mozzarella cheese. The combination doesn’t achieve a balanced taste, making the overall experience decent but not exceptional.
The rice ball’s exterior has a crispy coating, and the inside is soft and chewy. However, the texture of the kimchi filling can be a bit grainy due to the chopped cabbage pieces. The cheese also doesn’t melt completely, leaving some chunks intact within the rice ball.
Nutrition Analysis
The nutrition facts for Bibigo Kimchi & Cheese Rice Balls are what you’d expect from a processed snack. Each 100-gram serving has 180 calories, and with ten servings per container, it’s easy to portion based on your needs.
Each serving contains 3.5 grams of Total Fat, including 1 gram of Saturated Fat and 0 grams of Trans Fat, making it relatively low in fat. However, the Sodium level is high at 480 milligrams per serving, which could be concerning for those watching their sodium intake.
These rice balls are carbohydrate-heavy, with 33 grams of Total Carbohydrates per serving, less than 1 gram of Dietary Fiber, and 2 grams of Total Sugars. On the plus side, each serving provides 5 grams of Protein, helping to balance the carbs somewhat.
While the nutritional profile isn’t perfect, it aligns with similar snacks. For those who value flavor and convenience, these rice balls can be suitable; just be mindful of the higher sodium content.
Ingredients Analysis
The ingredients list for Costco’s Bibigo Kimchi & Cheese Rice Balls clearly shows that this product combines natural and processed elements. The main ingredient, cooked white rice, is simple and expected. However, the kimchi includes additives like monosodium glutamate (MSG) and xanthan gum, which some consumers might avoid due to sensitivities or dietary preferences.
The mozzarella cheese is pasteurized and made with low-moisture part-skim mozzarella. It also contains modified corn starch and various salts, which help with texture and preservation but make it less natural. Additionally, soybean oil, multiple seasoning sauces, and yeast extract add to the flavor and increase sodium and preservatives.
This product has several allergens: milk, wheat, soy, fish (anchovy), and crustaceans, making it unsuitable for individuals with specific food allergies.
In summary, while the Bibigo Kimchi & Cheese Rice Balls are a tasty and convenient snack, the processed ingredients and additives might concern health-conscious consumers or those with particular dietary needs. This reflects the overall processed nature typical of many convenience foods.
Convenience
One significant advantage of Costco’s Bibigo Kimchi & Cheese Rice Balls is their convenience. They only need 2 minutes in the microwave, which is perfect for busy schedules. The rice balls are individually packaged for easy handling and portion control.
This ensures you can enjoy a single serving without hassle. Whether you’re at home or need a quick snack on the go, these rice balls offer a simple and efficient way to satisfy your hunger.
Price Analysis
I bought the Bibigo Kimchi & Cheese Rice Balls from Costco for $12.99. The price is high for a processed snack, given the quantity and quality. The convenience and unique flavor are definite pluses, but the cost might concern some consumers.
Given its moderate taste and nutritional profile, a lower price could make it more appealing to a broader audience.
How I Prepare Bibigo Kimchi & Cheese Rice Balls
Microwave Oven (1100W)
- Snip the corner of the pouch and place it in the microwave.
- Do not cook more than one serving at a time.
- Cook for 2 minutes on HIGH power.
- Let rest for 1 minute. Be careful, as the contents will be hot.
Reddit Users’ Opinions
Many Reddit users have shared their thoughts on the Bibigo Kimchi & Cheese Rice Balls, with opinions varying widely. Some users appreciate the convenience and unique flavor combination, while others feel that the taste could be better given the price.
The discussion frequently touches on the spiciness, which some find just right and others too mild. There are also comments about the texture, particularly the graininess of the kimchi filling and the inconsistency of the cheese melt.
For more insights and to join the conversation, check out this Reddit thread about Bibigo Kimchi & Cheese Rice Balls.
The Reddit community’s input adds valuable perspectives for potential buyers considering this snack.
Video Review
Review Score
- Taste: 7/10
- Nutrition: 7/10
- Ingredients: 4/10
- Convenience: 8/10
- Price: 7/10
Overall
Give it a Try!
Costco’s Bibigo Kimchi & Cheese Rice Balls offer a convenient and unique snack for those who enjoy a mix of Korean flavors with a touch of Western influence. While some may find the balance of flavors and processed ingredients questionable, the overall experience is generally favorable. These rice balls are easy to prepare, making them an excellent choice for quick meals or snacks, especially for busy individuals.
Although they may not be perfect regarding nutrition and ingredients, they can fit into a balanced diet if eaten in moderation. Whether you should try them depends on your tastes and dietary preferences. If you enjoy spicy kimchi, chewy rice, and bits of cheese, these rice balls could be worth trying.
Have you tried Costco’s Bibigo Kimchi & Cheese Rice Balls?
If so, what did you think about the flavors’ balance and convenience level?
Please share your experience and let us know how they compare to other ready-to-eat snacks in your pantry!
FAQs
Are the Bibigo Kimchi & Cheese Rice Balls suitable for vegetarians?
No, the Bibigo Kimchi & Cheese Rice Balls contain fish (anchovy) and crustaceans, making them unsuitable for vegetarians and pescatarians.
How spicy are the Kimchi & Cheese Rice Balls?
The spiciness is relatively mild, but individual preferences may vary. If you are sensitive to spice, you might still find them spicy.
Can you cook the rice balls in a conventional oven?
The recommended cooking method is in the microwave oven. Cooking it in a conventional oven may not yield optimal results and could affect the texture and flavor.
Are there any Bibigo Kimchi & Cheese Rice Balls allergens?
Yes, the rice balls contain milk, wheat, soy, fish (anchovy), and crustaceans. They are not suitable for individuals with allergies to any of these ingredients.
How long do the rice balls last in the freezer?
Properly stored, the Bibigo Kimchi & Cheese Rice Balls have a shelf life indicated on the packaging. Consuming them before the ‘best by’ date is advisable for optimal taste and quality.
Can you reheat the rice balls if they get cold?
Yes, you can reheat the rice balls. Follow the original microwave instructions for a quick reheat. However, the texture may change slightly upon reheating.
What is the main flavor profile of the rice balls?
The main flavor profile includes the tanginess of kimchi, the savory taste of cheese, and the mild heat from the spices. The combination offers a unique blend of Korean and Western flavors.
Are the Bibigo Kimchi & Cheese Rice Balls gluten-free?
No, these rice balls contain wheat, which means they are unsuitable for those following a gluten-free diet.
Disclaimer
Please be aware that this review is independent and unbiased. The product was purchased by Costcoverdict solely for the purpose of creating this review. The opinions expressed here belong solely to Costcoverdict and do not reflect any affiliation with Costco or its suppliers. Should Costcoverdict ever receive compensation from a product manufacturer or any other third party, full disclosure will be provided, including instances where a product sample was provided for review purposes
