As the autumn chill sets in, the craving for warm, aromatic, and comforting food intensifies. For many, a Thai green curry fits the bill perfectly, offering ambient heat and a refreshing zing. Yet, creating an authentic version from scratch can be a culinary challenge.
This was the dilemma faced by one intrepid food reviewer, who decided to put his taste buds to the test with pre-made versions from four of the UK's leading supermarkets: Sainsbury's, Waitrose, M&S, and Tesco. The mission was clear: to find a ready meal that could satisfy the yearning for a perfect autumn dish, and perhaps even rival the beloved Charlie Bigham's range.
The Supermarket Curry Line-Up
The taste test commenced with four distinct Thai green chicken curries, each with its own price point and promise. The reviewer assessed them based on flavour, texture, authenticity, and overall satisfaction.
Sainsbury's: A Zesty but Mild Contender
Priced at £3.50, Sainsbury's Thai Style Chicken Curry made a positive first impression. The dish was praised for its refreshing lime zestiness, which danced pleasantly on the palate. The vegetables were soft and melded beautifully with the sauce, while the chicken pieces were succulent.
However, the curry was found lacking in one crucial area: it had no spicy kick. Despite this shortcoming, it was deemed a very decent effort, earning a solid 4 out of 5.
Waitrose: The Undisputed Champion
At £5.10, Waitrose's Thai Green Chicken Curry was the most expensive option, but it delivered an experience that justified the price. The reviewer described it as otherworldly delicious, a knockout ready meal that could give Charlie Bigham's a run for its money.
It boasted a strong lemongrass flavour, the perfect level of spiciness, and exquisite slabs of British chicken. Bamboo shoots added an earthy substance, creating a complex and deeply satisfying dish. This premium offering scored a perfect 5 out of 5.
M&S: An Authentic but Acquired Taste
M&S entered the ring with its Green Thai Chicken Curry, costing £3.50. The meal was commended for its painstaking authenticity and attention to detail, featuring flavours of coconut, ginger, and lime, alongside green beans and water chestnuts.
Yet, it fell short for the main reviewer. The vegetables were hard and crunchy, stir-fried in a style that distracted from the overall flavour, which was described as rugged and almost hoppy. While a Thai food aficionado might appreciate it, it was given a 3 out of 5.
Tesco: A Disappointing Gruel
Tesco's Thai Green Chicken Curry, the most affordable at £3.30, failed to impress. Despite its appealing green packaging, the contents were described as a fairly bland, benign gloop.
Devoid of any real taste or satisfaction, it was labelled a basic option for when you simply cannot be bothered to cook—a meal that fills the stomach but offers nothing more for the soul. It received a low score of 2 out of 5.
The Verdict Is In
The clear winner of this supermarket showdown was Waitrose. Its Thai Green Chicken Curry was in a league of its own, offering a dining experience that transcended the typical ready meal. For those on a budget, Sainsbury's provides a tasty and zesty alternative, while M&S offers an earthy, authentic curry for more adventurous palates. Tesco's offering, however, is one you might want to walk past on your next shop.
