Christmas time can really hit your wallet hard – but at its heart, it’s a period to appreciate what we have and savour the enjoy the company of loved ones.
Splashing the cash, especially on the Christmas meal, isn’t a necessity. And a TikToker has demonstrated that a wallet-friendly festive spread is possible.
UKNewestFoods has highlighted the Heron Foods Christmas dinner offering, ringing in at an economical £13.99, which works out at a paltry £3.50 per head. The real debate among folks is centred around whether the feast is as appetising as it appears and precisely what one gets for their money.
Included in the bargain is a choice of “any six sides”, a range that includes the likes of cauliflower cheese, carrots, Brussels sprouts, pigs in blankets, Yorkshire puddings, and crisp roast potatoes.
There are main dish choices suitable for all sorts of diets, with “gammon, turkey, or Quorn” on offer, and diners are free to pick sides based on their own tastes. “Nobody really likes sprouts”, she joked, hinting that these might often be skipped, although she opted to try the full selection for her assessment.
There was a minor inconvenience in that “annoyingly, everything does need to be cooked at different temperatures, at different times”. Despite this, she confirmed that with a little planning, everything can be cooked in unison, ensuring “so it can all be done in one go. Because this is all about convenience”.
Opting for a simpler festive feast could mean “less time in the kitchen on Christmas Day” according to one savvy shopper, leaving more room for cherished family moments.
The TikToker enthused, “It’s quick, it’s easy, and it’s an absolutely brilliant price,” The dish looked was finished with some gravy, as she noted, “Everybody has gravy [granules] in the store cupboard.”
The food critic noted that while the meal deal might not be quite enough for four adults, it certainly offers two decently-sized adult portions plus two for children, or possibly just right for three grown-ups. With appetites varying and Christmas being the season of generous plates, this seems like a win.
For larger households, even purchasing another set remains affordable at just £28 to satisfy a group of six. She wrapped up her praise by saying, “It’s quick, it’s convenient, and it is actually tasty,” igniting enthusiasm among commenters who were keen to try the idea.
One comment said: “I’m a lone mother with five children, saving money is priority for me, this is such a bargain.” Another commented: “Love this! I hope this shows people worried about Xmas food budgets while keeping simple is doable.”
And someone else shared: “I like watching these videos it means families will be able to have a special, convenient and budget-priced Xmas dinner that’s tasty.”
One TikToker voiced their opinion, stating: “Good value but I think 2 adults. Nice you can pick sides.” Meanwhile, the food critic responded with enthusiasm: “Even 2 huge portions for 2 adults for £13.99 is brilliant for a full Christmas dinner.”