As temperatures drop and the day winds down, finding the motivation to prepare a delicious meal can be challenging. Instead of opting for takeout, many people turn to convenient jarred sauces that can transform into a quick and easy dinner.
In my household, when craving a curry, we often reach for the Specially Selected jars from a popular supermarket, priced at £1.69. These jars, with their added spices, have consistently pleased our taste buds. However, with the ongoing battle between Aldi and Lidl to offer the best deals, more consumers are turning to own-label products due to budget constraints.
To test the quality of these affordable options, I conducted a comparison using the same rice base and chicken meat. Each jar provided suggestions for enhancing the meal with ingredients like peas, mango, and peppers, making it easier to meet the recommended daily vegetable intake.
For those on a budget, a simple combination of meat and sauce proved satisfying. Although both dishes impressed me, one stood out, making me rethink ordering takeout in the future.
Upon examination, the 99p Aldi sauce appeared more orange compared to the Lidl version. The aroma upon opening the jar was distinctive, and after a few minutes of cooking, it resulted in a well-prepared curry.
While the taste was as anticipated, not particularly surprising, the Aldi sauce failed to surpass expectations. In contrast, Lidl’s sauce, with its coconutty flavor and thicker consistency, provided a delightful and unexpected twist to the meal.
Despite being slightly runnier than the Lidl sauce, the Aldi option still offered four generous servings. The affordability and portion size were commendable, but the flavor and consistency of the Lidl sauce won me over.
In conclusion, Lidl emerged as the preferred choice for its unique taste and superior texture. This experience highlighted the value of exploring different options, even if it means opting for a more economical alternative, as it may lead to discovering a new favorite.