Driving from Schenectady, NY to Montreal is a boring trip. Yes, there are rolling hills and green forests, but unless you’re a fan of cheesy outlet mall towns or getting pulled over by one of hundreds of NY state troopers, you’re not bound to remember the trip. In my case, there is usually only one way to spice things up (in this case, literally); search for the latest in rest-stop-gas station-convenience store chip flavours.

On this particular trip I was pleased to see that Doritos was there to provide the treasure for my search. It seems that lately, chip companies have been going through a boom in flavour expansion. Every brand seems to be expanding and experimenting with their product line to no end. Doritos, has been no exception. Their latest and greatest is Fiery Habanero, which as far as I can tell is, unfortunately, only available south of the border at the moment (perhaps the brass at Frito Lay feel that us northerners can’t quite handle the heat).

Now I’ll admit, I like the spicy stuff. And if you’re a ‘mild’ type of curry eater, this isn’t the chip for you. Skeptical by nature, I had low expectations for my first bag. Those were quickly swept aside, as the heat hit me with the first chip. At first taste, the chip was not too hot, but definitely had a bite. But then, like a good chili or curry dish, as the chips piled up (in my belly), the heat seemed to linger on my tongue and gums, providing a healthy feeling burn throughout my ‘meal’ and remaining well afterwards so as not to let me forget. Well done Doritos. You did not skimp on the spice. Granted, that will drive away half of your potential consumers, but it will earn you respect from the seasoned chip connoisseur.

I can’t really remember anything else in particular about the chip. I suppose it was crunchy, cheesy and salty…I’m just glad I had a bottle of water to wash it all down.

What’s really crazy is how low down on the ingredients list that the Habanero pepper is listed. Also, even crazier still, is how many different cheeses are listed in the ingredients, including American Cheese. American Cheese? Isn’t that processed cheese slices?

Next Review: Cape Cod brings us Aged Cheddar and Jalapeno. Mmmm…..