Get ready, because everyone’s favorite ridged potato chip is launching yet another flavor to spice up the summer months. Ruffles is officially rolling out their limited-edition Korean-Style Sweet & Spicy Chili seasoned chips, which could be largely inspired by the popular Korean fried chicken (often referred to as k.f.c). While official information on the exact flavor profile is limited, there is reason to believe that the gochujang-based sauce often glazed on k.f.c could be the main inspiration for Ruffles’ new chip. But Judging from the packaging, it could also be the Korean dipping sauce called “Ssamjang” that’s usually offered during a Korean Barbeque Session. Whichever it may be, it appears that the release of this new flavor from the potato chip brand aims to capture a perfect balance of savory and spicy, with just the right hint of sweetness.
The Korean-Style Sweet & Spicy from Ruffles will launch nationwide on June 17. The new flavor is going to be a limited-edition release, so anyone keen on trying them best mark their calendars so there’s no chance of missing out on what could be Ruffles’ best flavor yet.
How Ruffles Got Its Ridges
Ruffles, was founded by Bernhardt Stahmer in 1958. The signature ridged look and texture of the potato chip was originally born out of Stahmer’s idea to create a chip that was less prone to breakage when dipped. His introduction of ridges turned out to be a pivotal innovation that gave the potato chip both structural integrity and a better ability to hold onto more seasoning and flavor.
Today, Ruffles continues to be a snack brand that adapts its flavor offerings, from classic Cheddar and Sour Cream to more creative options like Loaded Bacon & Cheddar Potato Skins, effectively meeting evolving consumer preferences. Ruffles also frequently collaborates with other popular food brands and celebrities, which keeps them a culturally relevant snack choice. These, coupled with their innovative marketing tactics, contribute to firmly establishing the brand as a leader in the snack food industry.
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A Taste of Korea in a Chip
The new Korean-Style Sweet & Spicy Chili from Ruffles is likely inspired by the bold flavors of Korean fried chicken (also known as k.f.c) that’s often glazed with a gochujang-based sauce. While there’s currently not a lot of information on what exactly the flavor profile might be, we’re guessing it’ll most likely be a take on that gochujang glaze, which is a hot and sweet, almost-syrupy coating that is a common flavor choice at most Korean food joints that offer Korean fried chicken. But based on what’s being depicted in the packaging, the sauce could also be “Ssamjang” which is a condiment often served during a session of Korean Barbeque.
Gochujang is a fermented chili paste that’s a pantry staple in every Korean kitchen. It’s used as a base flavor in almost every Korean dish, not just Korean fried chicken. It brings a unique depth of flavor that can be described as a perfect blend of spicy, salty, sweet, and umami notes. Ssamjang, on the other hand, is a Korean condiment that is a blend of fermented soybean and chili pastes, garlic, sesame oil, and other seasonings. Its savory, spicy flavor partners well with grilled meats and fresh vegetable wraps, which is why it’s often served at Korean Barbeques. No matter the flavor profile Ruffles’ new chip may sport, when paired with the satisfying crunch of the brand’s iconic ridged potato chips, the Korean-Style Sweet & Spicy Chili flavor is bound to become a favorite at gatherings this summer.
The official nationwide roll-out of Ruffles’ new limited-edition Korean-Style Sweet & Spicy Chili will be on June 17. To learn more about the brand and their current product offers, visit their official website.
From The Club
To say that I love Korean food is an understatement. I would gladly move to Korea just so I can eat the food every day, all day. While there are Korean restaurants here in the US, I just feel like I need the full experience. But Ruffles releasing a Korean-inspired flavor feels like they’re telling me I don’t need to hop on a plane just to enjoy Korean flavors. I’m excited to see how Ruffles’ take on usual Korean fried chicken glaze will compare to the real thing. It’s a bummer that this flavor is limited-edition, because if the taste turns out to be exactly what I’m imagining it to be, I’d feel totally betrayed.
