As the festive season approaches, many people eagerly indulge in traditional treats such as mince pies. This year, a taste test focused on the offerings from two budget supermarkets, Aldi and Lidl, aimed to determine which brand provides the best value for money.
Aldi’s Offering: Good Price, Mediocre Quality
Aldi’s mince pies are priced at 99p for a pack of six, which translates to approximately 16.5p per pie. While this price point is attractive, the quality fell short of expectations. The pastry, appearing overly browned on top, detracted from the visual appeal of the star design. Although it looked unappetizing, the dough was surprisingly soft, lacking the sturdy and crumbly texture typically associated with a good shortcrust pastry. Furthermore, the base was excessively doughy, impacting the overall experience.
The filling, composed of small raisins, resembled a sweet fruity paste, lacking both texture and the rich, boozy depth often found in higher-quality options. While these pies could be a convenient addition to a Christmas gathering, they are unlikely to impress those seeking a standout dessert. Overall, Aldi’s mince pies received a score of 4/10.
Lidl’s Mince Pies: A Slightly Better Alternative
In contrast, Lidl’s mince pies are priced at £1.25 for a pack of six. Although these pies cost an additional 25p, they presented a better visual appeal, with a well-baked colour and a charming holly design on top. Despite this, the flavour and texture remained a disappointment. While the pastry was thicker and more robust than Aldi’s offering, it still lacked the necessary crispness.
The filling in Lidl’s pies showed improvement, featuring larger raisins and a hint of depth in flavour. However, they still did not meet the expectations of mince pie enthusiasts. With a score of 5/10, Lidl emerged as the preferable choice, though those seeking a more exceptional mince pie experience may want to explore options beyond these budget selections.
In conclusion, while both Aldi and Lidl offer budget-friendly mince pies for the holiday season, neither brand fully satisfies the traditional expectations of this festive treat. Consumers may wish to consider investing in higher-quality options to ensure a more enjoyable experience on Christmas Day.
