A new month has arrived and with it brings the next round of Degustabox reviews. The June box had a BBQ theme which amused me a little as I write this post- it’s the most un-BBQ weather outside right now and I’m contemplating putting the heating on to take the chill off! But we did enjoy some better weather at the start of the month and I’m hopeful that as we creep in to July the air will once again be filled with the scent of grilling food and smoke.
These biscuits from Destrooper-Olivier are dangerously good. Butter waffle crisps made in Belgium and the perfect companion to a steaming cup of coffee. I made short work of this box but had I have had more self control I think they would have been fantastic served with vanilla ice cream for a crunchy, creamy dessert. Available at Waitrose with an RRP of £1.10.
Who doesn’t love a chocolate brownie? I actually gave this mug brownie by Bakedin to my BFF as she is the queen of brownie eating and I knew she’d be able to tell if this was any good or not. From the stream of texts I got raving about everything from how it looked to how it tasted, and the fact she’s still mentioning it four days later I am pretty sure it’s a winner! Ok so it’s a pure novelty and at £1.50 an indulgent treat, but who doesn’t deserve a bit of indulgence from time to time?
A good selection of condiments is crucial to any BBQ or social gathering and one of the first things I check out anywhere is what sauces and sides are available! I’ve really been enjoying the Haywards pickled onions, which are small and not too acidic as well as the Branston spicy tomato relish- this is perfect on a burger and I’ve also been using it to spice up a toasted sandwich at lunch times!
It was nice to see both an alcoholic and non-alcoholic in the box this month. I’m not a lager drinker myself but this can of King Star from Marstons was enjoyed ice cold by my dad and I kicked back with a glass of cloudy lemonade from Zeo. It’s unusual you’ll find me drinking a soft drink that isn’t a diet cola but I really liked this despite the addition of stevia which typically I can’t stand! Definitely one to stock up on for non-drinkers at a Summer party!
The concept of zero calorie/very low calorie foods breaks my brain a little, and as before when this kind of thing has turned up in a box, I didn’t give them a go as it treads on dangerous ground for me. I did however pay more attention to the Heinz Amoy coconut milk which I am yet to use, I’m currently in the process of searching for the perfect recipe to use it in- do feel free to make suggestions in the comments!
The yoghurt coated popcorn from Butterkist was Degustabox’s product of the month and I think it might be mine too. It’s not an obvious combination but I just love this- the light and airy corn smothered with a smooth and creamy yoghurt coating. It’s one of those things that you need to try to truly get the hype, so if you see this I recommend picking some up! It’s also only 95 calories per serving (if you limit yourself to just one that is!) so a good healthy snack for those with a sweet tooth.
Is there a more perfect and comforting quick dinner than pesto pasta? I think not! These single serving mini pots from Scala have become a staple in my cupboard- no more opening and then not finishing a jar! I will confess I’m yet to use the homemade burger mix from Schwartz as I like my burgers plain (so as not to interfere with the condiments I pile on!) but when we next have people round I shall be whipping this out and creating some American Smokehouse action.
Another real standout product this month for me were these freeze at home fruit ices from Smooze. Made from coconut juice and fresh fruit juice + puree I really wasn’t expecting to enjoy these as much as I did. The combination of mango and coconut is such a winner and these are wonderfully creamy and refreshing. They are also free from all major allergens and suitable for vegans so what’s not to love?
If you’re persuaded to give Degustabox a go (and really, you should) you can claim a brilliant £6 off of your first box by entering the code BLDEG15 at the checkout. It’s been a pleasure to work with the brand one and off over the last couple of years and it’s without a doubt something that I will continue to purchase long after our partnership ends. I love the monthly surprise and excitement as well as the chance to discover products I’d otherwise pass up on the supermarket shelves.
