Duck & Hoisin Low-Fat Crisps Review: An Asian-Inspired Crunch Worth Trying

If your snack drawer is stuck in a salt-and-vinegar rut, the Duck & Hoisin flavor from Simply Roasted might be the shake-up you need. Drawing inspiration from classic Chinese duck pancakes, these crisps promise a sweet, savory, and subtly aromatic bite—all while staying low in fat. I picked up a bag to see if they deliver on that promise without tasting artificial or overly sweet.

This review covers everything from the first crunch to the aftertaste, with honest notes on texture, seasoning balance, and how these stack up as a healthy savory crisps option. I’ll also share a few ways to enjoy them beyond straight out of the bag.

First Impressions and Packaging

The bag itself is in line with the brand's clean, modern look—simple and uncluttered. Opening it releases a mild hoisin aroma that isn’t overpowering, which is a good sign for those sensitive to strong scents. The crisps are uniformly roasted, with a light golden color and minimal oil sheen. No broken pieces in my bag, which suggests careful handling during shipping.

One thing I appreciated: the resealable zip closure on the larger bags. If you’re not finishing the bag in one sitting (which is easy to do), the seal keeps them fresh. The serving size is 28 grams, and a typical bag contains about 2.5 servings—reasonable for portion control.

• Practical tip: Store opened bags in a cool, dry place to maintain crunch. The zip seal helps, but a chip clip adds extra insurance.

Taste and Texture: Tasting Notes

The first flavor that hits is a gentle sweetness from the hoisin, followed by a mild savory note that mimics the richness of duck—without any actual duck meat, of course. The seasoning is well distributed; I didn’t find any clumps of powder or overly salty spots. The aftertaste is clean, with a faint five-spice warmth that lingers pleasantly. Compared to some low-fat crisps that taste thin or dusty, these have a satisfying depth.

Texture-wise, they’re crunchy without being hard. The roasting process gives them a light, airy crisp rather than a greasy crunch. If you’ve tried other Simply Roasted flavors like barbecue or hot honey, you’ll recognize the same base quality—thin-cut potatoes roasted to a uniform golden finish. The duck hoisin flavor stands out as more complex than the straightforward salt-and-vinegar options.

• Tasting note: These pair surprisingly well with a cold Asian-style slaw or a light sesame dressing. The sweetness balances the vinegar tang.

Nutritional Profile and Health Angle

As a low-fat Asian snack, these crisps fit neatly into a balanced diet. Each 28-gram serving contains about 110 calories and 3 grams of fat—significantly lower than standard potato chips. They’re also gluten-free and made with no artificial flavors or preservatives. The ingredient list is short: potatoes, sunflower oil, and a seasoning blend that includes sugar, salt, yeast extract, and spices.

The tradeoff is that they are still a processed snack, so they’re not a substitute for whole vegetables. But for a crunchy craving that won’t derail your day, these are a solid choice. The sodium content is moderate—around 140 mg per serving—which is reasonable compared to many crisps. If you’re watching salt intake, pair them with a hydrating snack like cucumber slices.

• Honest note: The sugar content (about 2g per serving) comes mostly from the hoisin seasoning. It’s not excessive, but it’s worth noting if you’re on a strict low-sugar plan.

How to Enjoy Them: Pairings and Occasions

These crisps shine as a standalone snack, but they also work well as a crunchy topping for soups or salads. I tried them crushed over a simple miso soup, and the sweetness cut through the saltiness nicely. For a party platter, they add an Asian-inspired twist alongside other dips like sweet chili or a light soy-ginger sauce.

If you’re new to the brand, consider the discovery box as a low-commitment way to try duck & hoisin along with other flavors. Many snackers also combine them with a classic mixed case of small bags to keep variety in the pantry. The duck hoisin flavor tends to be a conversation starter—guests often ask what they are before reaching for seconds.

• Serving idea: Use them in place of croutons on a Asian chicken salad. The hoisin notes complement sesame-ginger dressing perfectly.

The Verdict: Are They Worth It?

Simply Roasted Duck & Hoisin crisps deliver a genuinely interesting flavor that doesn't rely on heavy salt or artificial taste. The balance of sweet and savory is well-executed, and the texture holds up to the best in the low-fat category. At around £1.50–£2.00 per bag (pricing varies), they're on par with other premium low-fat options.

The only downside is that the flavor might not appeal to everyone—if you're not a fan of hoisin or five-spice, stick with more universal choices like sea salt & cider vinegar. But for those seeking a gourmet low-fat chip with an Asian accent, these are a clear winner. They've earned a regular spot in my snack rotation.

Simply Roasted Duck & Hoisin low-fat crisps offer a unique, well-balanced flavor that proves healthy snacking doesn't have to be boring. Whether you're new to Asian-inspired snacks or a longtime fan, these crisps deliver crunch without guilt. Try a bag on its own or mix them into your next dish—you might be surprised how versatile they are.