A FOODIE has tried Iceland’s Christmas dinner in a box and has two very big complaints.
Just days ago, the major supermarket bought back its iconic Christmas box that feeds four people for just £25.
And with the cost of a food shop on the up, it’s no surprise that shoppers have called it a “godsend.”
Iceland’s Luxury Christmas Dinner for four comes together in one convenient box.
It contains a turkey breast joint, roast potatoes, honey-glazed parsnips, sprouts, maple-glazed carrots, stuffing balls, pigs in blankets and turkey gravy made with poultry stock and dry white wine.
It can all be cooked in the air fryer, making it even more convenient.
Stuart Snowden, a seasoned cook known online as ‘Grumpy Northern Foodie’ gave the food retailer’s festive offering a try and took to social media to share his honest thoughts.
The content creator, who often posts his verdict of high street grub online, unboxed each component of the affordable box and moments later, plated up the four Christmas dinners.
He described the dinners as “nice full plates” and added: “Overall, are you gonna beat a fresh turkey? No, of course you’re not, that’s not the point of this box.”
He then continued: “This box – convenience, ease, maybe for a couple on their own that don’t wanna spend a load of money, people on shifts, people who can’t cook.
“For me, the turkey is much better than last year’s one, [it] has stayed nice and moist.”
After tasting the dinner, Stuart described the roast potatoes as “spot on” and thought the stuffing was a “nice addition.”
But he had two complaints about the box – one of which was the lack of gravy.
Showing off the small amount of gravy that comes with the box, the foodie fumed: “Things we will say about this one – not enough gravy. You’re gonna have to get some more gravy.”
I think a few Yorkshire puddings thrown in there would have topped this right off
Stuart Snowden
Despite rating the box an eight out of ten, the Iceland shopper voiced yet another objection.
The dad-of-three who has worked in the food industry for 15 years then acknowledged: “And it’s missing something else – I think a few Yorkshire puddings thrown in there would have topped this right off.”
Fridge or cupboard? The essential food storage guide
Foods must be stored correctly to keep them fresh and prevent the spread of bacteria.
Nutrition expert Birgit Brendel said bread will last longer when stored in the fridge or freezer.
However, this can compromise the flavour.
Storing in ceramic or pottery containers is an alternative that allows for air to flow easily and slow the growth of mould.
Robert Morris, managing director of food safety consultants, Complete Food Safety, revealed the best place to store fresh fruit and vegetables.
He said salad foods should be stored in the fridge drawer, but away from anything grown in the soil such as carrots, parsnips and beetroot.
Tomatoes are an exception to the rule as fridges can alter the natural ripening process and diminish their taste.
He also advised against putting avocados and bananas in the fridge as this will cause them to blacken quicker.
Social media users react
Stuart’s TikTok clip, which was posted under the username @grumpynorthernfoodie, has clearly left many open-mouthed, as it has quickly racked up 340,700 views.
Foodies eagerly raced to the comments to share their thoughts on the purse-friendly box, which many thought was a “brilliant idea.”
One person said: “Iceland definitely didn’t think about Northerners when they portioned that tub of gravy.”
This is a brilliant idea. Iceland are thinking of people who are struggling which is a winner from me
TikTok user
Another added: “Big portions for the price really. But definitely needs more gravy!”
A third commented: “Christmas dinner isn’t complete without some Yorkshire puddings on the side, but this is amazing value well done Iceland.”
Meanwhile, someone else chimed in: “This is a brilliant idea. Iceland are thinking of people who are struggling which is a winner from me.”
But sharing another complaint, one foodie penned: “Some cranberry sauce in there would be good too.”
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