The cost of living crisis is causing many people across the UK to tighten their belts. But that shouldn't mean we can't enjoy a delicious Christmas dinner this year.
In an effort to spare our taste buds this festive season despite these financially difficult times, Good Housekeeping carried out a taste test aimed at finding out which supermarket is best for those on a budget this Christmas. An expert panel sampled 33 categories of food and drink covering everything from pigs in blankets to smoked salmon and roast potatoes.
Those who don't eat meat were also well catered for as the panel tried a wide range of vegan and vegetarian dishes too. A total of 470 festive products from more than 130 brands were tested.
And with rising energy bills and food prices soaring, particular attention was paid to budget-friendly choices this year. On the whole, the panel found that all retailers had done a good job when it came to keeping prices affordable.
However, the experts concluded that Aldi sits on top of the pile. The German-based discounter was revealed to provide the best value for money, with a particular penchant for its flavoured puddings and meat canapes.
The Express reports that after testing 26 whole turkeys and crowns this year, the panel named Aldi the winner of the Best Budget Crown. At £16.99 for 1.5kg, the supermarket's Specially Selected Roly Poly Stuffed Crown scored 79/100.
Its Slow Cooked Wagyu Ribs with a Red Wine Sauce, (£6.99 for 600g), also scored 79/100, and was named Best budget Christmas meat centrepiece. The tasting experts said it “proved great value”.
The dish is presented in a caramelised red wine jus, and testers hailed the gelatinous meat for being extremely moreish. The supermarket was also awarded Best budget vegan main for its Aldi Festive Wreath, which is priced at £3.99 for 480g. It scored 70/100.
Aldi also came out on top for the Best budget roast potatoes. Its Specially Selected Goose Fat Roast Potatoes scored 72/100 and cost £1.59 for 800g.
For mince pie lovers, the supermarket’s offerings were awarded Best Budget Mince Pie. Aldi Specially Selected Mince Pies scored 71/100 and are £1.79 for six. Aldi Specially Selected Chocolate Panettone £3.99 for 750g was also named Best Budget Panettones scoring 76/100.
Other supermarkets offering good value included M&S Food and Waitrose & Partners. The former sat within the top five in an impressive 19 categories, the latter performed well on the turkey front while Sainsbury's led the way on sweet treats.
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