Degustabox August Box

 Degustabox is a monthly food and drink subscription box. It's an excellent way of discovering new products which have only just appeared in the shops, or those which have been around for a while, but you haven't had a chance to try them yet.

Thanks to Degustabox, I have found new favourites to add to our shopping list, including some products which I otherwise wouldn't have tried.

Each time a monthly box arrives, its contents are a total surprise. You get a good selection of foods and drinks.

If you haven't tried Degustabox subscription box yet, and would like to have a go, I have a £3off discount from your first box (and you can unsubscribe any time), just use code DKRLN when placing an order. 

What did we get in the August Box?

Tilda Tomato and Basil (£1.25) is the Product of the Month. This is a tasty combination of natural basmati rice with juicy tomatoes and fragrant basil.

Always pleased to have another product from Tilda. I buy Tilda pouches regularly for quick and easy meals, as a side dish for chicken, fish or tofu. Perfect with stuffed peppers (as any of Tilda's rice products).

Nutritional information: 153kcal and 0.53g of salt per 125g serving; gluten free; nothing artificial; vegetarian and vegan.

Available in all major retailers and on tilda.com.

UFIT Protein Granola Toasted Oats & Chocolate (£3) is a "quick, easy and tasty way to start your morning strong".

Made with soya protein to maintain muscles and bones. 

Nutritional values: 302kcal and 13g of sugar per 70g serving. It promises High Protein - 15g per serving. Serve with 125ml of semi-skimmed milk for 20g protein. A source of fibre, wholegrain, natural flavours and low in salt for healthy blood pressure. Suitable for vegetarians.

Our son is a fan of this granola, and enjoys different favours of UFIT for breakfast.

Available in Tesco, ASDA (we also buy it in Ocado).

Sharwoods Medium Ready to Wok Noodles (£1.95) comes handy, when you want to prepare a quick and easy noodle dish, either a stir fry or a ramen (could  be meat-based or vegetarian).

There's no need to pre-boil the noodles, just add them straight to your wok, and they will be ready in a couple of minutes.

Made from quality wheat flour, these noodles are soft and springy, and don't stick together.

Nutritional values: 207kcal and 5.5g of protein per portion (150g); no artificial colours, flavours and preservatives.

I used them in a gyoza ramen dish, with a few green vegetables and miso broth, one of the meals my family enjoys often (usually I add udon noodles).

Available in Tesco.

Bisto Herby Parsley Sauce (£2.95) is a lovely accompaniment to a steamed fish (cod or salmon), or as an ingredient in the fish pie.

Simply add 4 level tablespoons of Bisto herby parsley sauce granules to 250ml boiling water and stir until thickened. One tub gives you 19 individual servings.

Nutritional values: 42kcal and 0.47g of salt per 50ml portion; no artificial colours or preservatives.

Available in the major supermarket chains.

Seabrook Garlic & Herb Crinkle Cut Crisp (£1.50) is a new addition to the popular Seabrook range.

Crafted in Yorkshire since 1945, Seabrook Crisps are famous for their iconic crinkle cut texture combined with bold flavours. There are several lovely flavours to choose from, though we prefer the classic one, with sea salt. This bag of crisps didn't last long.

Garlic & Herb offers a punchy garlic favour, well balanced with fragrant herbs. Each 25g bag contains 126kcal and 0.16g of salt.

Available in ASDA.

Carr's Roasted Garlic & Herb Water Crackers (£1.70) are delicious savoury crackers, perfect for cheese and dips.

My favourite kind of lunch is a cheeseboard with cheese, fresh grapes or figs, crackers and chilli jam. These crackers are just wonderful with soft cheese, like brie or camembert, or spreadable goat's cheese.

"Carr's have been baking pioneers since 1831, proudly bearing the crown of Carlisle as a symbol of our enduring quality". 

Carr's crackers are baked in the iconic brick ovens. Roasted garlic and herb crackers are crispy, light and full of flavour.

Nutritional values: 14kcal and 0.1g of salt per cracker.

Available in Sainsbury's and Waitrose.

Jam Shed Jammy Red Wine & Cola (£2.50) is a refreshing cocktail in a tin, inspired by the Spanish classic, Calimocho. A blend of wine and cola flavouring. 

It was the first time I've tried this drink. Not bad at all, with lots of ice. Perfect for summer. It is rich, jammy and smooth with a pop of fizz.

Enjoy chilled or over ice.

Nutritional information: 74kcal per 100ml; alc.7% vol.

Available in B&M, Home Bargains, Savers and Tesco.

Starbucks Rich Black & Signature Caramel Flavour Coffee Craft (£3.99) is an iced coffee concentrated, which allows you to have your coffee exactly how you like it. 

You should receive 1 item of two, ours was the Rich Black flavour.

Crafted from the finest Latin American Arabica beans, this is an unsweetened black liquid coffee concentrate. Add milk of your choice (dairy or plant-based) or water and ice for a smooth iced drink.

In the last summer I drank gallons of iced coffee. I made mine with pistachio milk and lots of ice, and it was just right for the hot weather we endured in the last three months.

Nutritional information: 43kcal and 4.1g of sugar per 100ml prepared coffee.

Available in all major supermarkets.

And finally, Rubicon Twist Mango Mist (£1.15) - a refreshing spring water with natural flavours and real fruit extract.

Each serving contains 0g sugar and only 3 calories. Enjoy chilled or served with ice.

Also available in Peach Punch, Berry Blast and Tropical Burst.

Available in Tesco, Sainsbury's, WHSmith and independent retailers.

What is your favourite product from the latest Degustabox?

I also wanted to bring your attention to the limited edition Degustabox Advent Calendar at £39.99 (worth £60 of products) and Cook & Bake Advent Calendar at £49.99 (worth £100). 

I haven't decided yet which one I will be ordering, as they both look good. 

Degustabox July Box

 

 Degustabox is a monthly food and drink subscription box. It's an excellent way of discovering new products which have only just appeared in the shops, or those which have been around for a while, but you haven't had a chance to try them yet.

Thanks to Degustabox, I have found new favourites to add to our shopping list, including some products which I otherwise wouldn't have tried.

Each time a monthly box arrives, its contents are a total surprise. You get a good selection of foods and drinks.

If you haven't tried Degustabox subscription box yet, and would like to have a go, I have a £3off discount from your first box (and you can unsubscribe any time), just use code DKRLN when placing an order. 

What did we get in July Box?

Kellogg's Crunchy Nut Crunchies Caramelised Biscuit Flavour (£3.50) is the Product of the Month. This is the latest addition to the Kellogg's range.

If you enjoy your cereal crunchy, then you're in for a treat. Crafted from maize, wholegrain oat and wholewheat flour, coated in rich caramelised biscuit flavour. Lovely with milk, or as a little snack on its own.

Nutritional values: 115kcal and 6.9g of sugar per 30g portion; natural grains, no artificial colours or flavours.

Available in the major supermarket chains.

Gaea Kalamata Olive Spread 125g or Sweet Red Pepper 125g (£2.50 each) are preservative-free spreads, inspired by the authentic Greek cuisine.

You should receive one item of two. 

We got Gaea Kalamata Olive Spread. Made with Kalamata olives, dried tomato, extra virgin olive oil, vinegar, apple juice, onion powder, oregano and mustard powder, this spread is full of vibrant flavours.

Lovely as part of a mezze platter, filled with fresh veggies, pitta bread, cheese and dips. 

Nutritional values: 206kcal and 4.5g of sugar per 100g. 

Available in local convenience stores.

Kettle Tortillas Mature Cheddar and Red Onion (£2.65) is a gourmet snack, made from Mexican-inspired white corn and carefully selected natural ingredients (red quinoa, onion and herbs).

They look rustic and authentic, speckled with red quinoa. Tasty on their own. Or place them on a tray, cover with grated Cheddar and mozzarella cheese, sprinkle a bit of Chipotles and put under the grill until the cheese melts. Absolutely heavenly.

Nutritional values: 482kcal  and 2.9g of sugar per 100g; gluten free, vegetarian, high fibre.

Available in Sainsbury's, Waitrose and Morrisons.

Buldak Hot Sauce Original & Hot Sauce Carbonara Flavour (£3.50 each) are Korean condiments.

They are very spicy (says so on the bottle), and rate 4/5 on the heat level. I am not brave enough to try them in cooking, and will try to find a willing friend who might enjoy them. 

However, if you love your food extra hot and spicy, serve these sauces as a dip or drizzle on any dish. The sauces are crafted to perfection, and promise a harmonious balance of spicy and savoury notes. There is even an Extremely Spicy sauce in the range.

Carbonara Hot Sauce is creamy red in colour, its tasting notes are "deep rich flavours and a spicy, creamy finish with a hint of creaminess". Nutritional values: 346kcal and 20g of sugar per 100ml.

Original Hot Sauce is dark red in colour, its tasting notes are "unmatched, addictive heat pungent, intense spiciness with sweet caramel notes". Nutritional values: 270kcal and 26g of sugar per 100ml.

Available in the major supermarket chains.

You should receive 1 item in your box.

For Goodness Shakes White Chocolate 35g (£2.50) is a new protein shake, made with only four ingredients including fresh milk.

Packed with protein, flavour and goodness, this shake is naturally high in calcium, lactose free, fat free and with no added sugar.

My younger son enjoys protein drinks, so this one is definitely for him.

Nutritional values: 211kcal and 16g of sugar per 330ml bottle.

Available in the major supermarket chains, Ocado, Amazon and at forgoodnessshakes.com.

Jimmy's Iced Coffee Original Iced Coffee (£2, see above) is a smooth, balanced, refreshing cold drink. Lovely straight from the fridge, or on the go. 

Planning to travel soon? Pick up some Jimmy's iced coffee to keep you alert and refreshed on the trip.

Ingredients include semi-skimmed milk, single origin Arabica coffee (Rainforest Alliance Certified), unrefined demerara sugar and acidity regulator.

Nutritional information: 39kcal and 4.9g of sugar per 100ml; suitable for vegetarians. 

Available in major supermarkets and online at www.jimmysicedcoffee.com.

If you are a Degusta Box Plus member, you will receive an additional product inside your box.

What product is your favourite from the latest box?

Degustabox May Box: BBQ & Garden Party

 

Degustabox is a monthly food and drink subscription box. It's an excellent way of discovering new products which have only just appeared in the shops, or those which have been around for a while, but you haven't had a chance to try them yet.

Thanks to Degustabox, I have found new favourites to add to our shopping list, including some products which I otherwise wouldn't have tried.

Each time a monthly box arrives, its contents are a total surprise. You get a good selection of foods and drinks.

If you haven't tried Degustabox subscription box yet, and would like to have a go, I have a £3off discount from your first box (and you can unsubscribe any time), just use code DKRLN when placing an order. 

What did we get in May Box: BBQ & Garden Party Degustabox?

Get More Vits Vitamin D Drink Mango & Passionfruit (£1.50) is a fruity, sugar-free soft drink with a daily dose of vitamins. Choose between Raspberry & Pomegranate, Pineapple & Grapefruit or Mango & Passionfruit.

These drinks make it easier to boost your vitamin intake.

Sugar-free, low calorie and made with UK spring water and natural fruit flavours, Get More Vits are refreshing and flavourful.

Mango & Passionfruit Vitamin D drink blends natural flavours of juicy mango with tropical passionfruit, boosted with 200% of your daily Vitamin D and 15% calcium.

Nutritional information: 5kcal and 0g sugar per 500ml serving.

Available in Tesco, ASDA, Sainsbury's, Morrisons, Co-Op, Ocado, WHSmith and Booths.

Mornflake Mighty Oats Organic Porridge Oats (£3) are made from 100% wholegrain British oats grown on organic farms with nature in mind.

Cook on the hob, or in a microwave, use  as an ingredient for tasty flpajacks or oat cookies.

Nutritional values: 147kcal and 0.4g of sugar per 40g. 

Naturally high in fibre, they are a source of protein, vegan-friendly and heart-smart, i.e. help to actively lower cholesterol, as part of a varied, balanced diet and healthy lifestyle. 

Other credentials: Carbon neutral milling, made with wind and solar power, 0% production waste, low CO2 footprint, low food miles and 100% recyclable packaging.

Available at Co-Op, Ocado, Nisa, Booths, Grape Tree, Amazon and www.mornflake.com/shop.

Bisto Sweet & Smoky BBQ sauce (£2.95) is a tub of instant sauce granules. 

Enhance your roast with this quick and easy sauce, simply add 4 level tablespoons of Bisto to 250ml boiling water, give it a quick stir until you have a glossy BBQ sauce.

Serve with Hunter's chicken and/or potato wedges, or pizza.

Nutritional information: 39kcal and 0.8g of sugar per 50ml portion; no artificial colours or preservatives.

One tub = 19 individual servings.

Available in Tesco, Morrisons, Iceland and Ocado.

Fragata Manzanilla Olives filled with Manchego Cheese (£2) are an ultimate snack. 

These olives have a firm texture and a delicate flavour typical of Spanish olives. Each olive is filled with a smooth Manchego cheese for an authentic taste of Spain.

Pair with a glass of wine or a cocktail. Add to pasta, salads, casseroles, cheese boards, pizza, the possibilities are endless.

Nutritional information: 155kcal and 3.5g of salt per 100g of drained product.

Available in Morrisons.

Maggi Global Kitchen Spaghetti Bolognese or Tikka Masala Ready Meal 260g (£3 each) is a new product from Maggi.

Enjoy a rich Spaghetti Bolognese with beef, or aromatic Chicken Tikka Masala with lentils, wholegrain rice and warming spices.

You should receive 1 item of two. We got Chicken Tikka Masala, which is a combination of chicken pieces in a spiced, creamy tomato sauce with lentils and brown rice.

Nutritional values: 259kcal and 7.4g of sugar per 260g serving. Each pouch is one serving.

Ready in just 2 minutes, these meals are a high source of protein and fibre, low in saturated fat, and make quick and easy meals. There are six tasty flavours to choose from.

Available in Morrisons.

April Box Degustabox: Snacking and New Recipes

 Degustabox is a monthly food and drink subscription box. It's an excellent way of discovering new products which have only just appeared in the shops, or those which have been around for a while, but you haven't had a chance to try them yet.

Thanks to Degustabox, I have found new favourites to add to our shopping list, including some products which I otherwise wouldn't have tried.

Each time a monthly box arrives, its contents are a total surprise. You get a good selection of foods and drinks.

If you haven't tried Degustabox subscription box yet, and would like to have a go, I have a £3off discount from your first box (and you can unsubscribe any time), just use code DKRLN when placing an order. 

What did we get in April Box: Hello, Snacking and New Recipes Degustabox?

BE FREE by Eisberg sparkling white 0.0% (£2) is an alcohol free sparkling wine based drink in a can.

Drink cooled straight from the can, pour in a glass with ice, or make a lemonade spritz with this alcohol free wine. We had it before, it was one of the products in the Advent calendar, and it is lovely, refreshing and crisp.

Eisberg have teaed up with artist Samuel Thomas to create a funky design, evocative of the sea, sky and freedom.

Nutritional values: 23kcal and 5g of sugar per 100ml.

Available on Amazon.

Seabrook Tomato Ketchup Crinkle Cut Crisps (£1.50) is the latest addition to the popular range of crisps.

Seabrook Crisps are the original crinkle cut crisps, crafted in Yorkshire since 1945. These crisps combine bold flavours with a classic crinkle texture. 

Tomato Ketchup crisps are bursting with flavour, sweet, savoury and tangy. 

Nutritional information: 124kcal and 1.1g of sugar per 25g bag; gluten free, suitable for vegetarians and vegans.

Available in the major supermarkets.

I used a bag of crisps as an ingredient in cooking crab cakes. I added crushed crisps to the panko breadcrumbs as the coating for the crab cakes.  They turned out really tasty, with a lovely added flavour and texture.

Namdong Kimchi Jjigae Noodle Pot (£1.60) are Korean-inspired noodles. 

K-noodles are a big trend nowadays, with a variety of brands and flavours to choose from.

These noodles allow you to personalise your spice level, as they come with a separate chilli sachet - spice as you like, depending on your preference, from a gentle kick to a more mighty level of heat.

My younger son is the noodle king in our family. He is not the biggest fan of the kimchi flavour, but did say the noodles were fun to try.

Nutritional information: 376kcal and 3.5g of salt per pot; vegan.

Available in the major supermarkets.

Alpen Muesli No Added Sugar/ or Original (£2.99) is inspired by the Apls themselves.

You will receive one item of two.

We got the Original flavour, promising a brimful of delicious toasted wheat flakes, creamy rolled oats, crunchy nuts and juicy raisins in every spoonful of the original recipe.

Nutritional values: 168kcal and 9.5g of sugar pper 45g serving; 100% natural ingredients, wholegrain, high in fibre.

If you're not a cereal-in-the-morning person, use muesli as an ingredient in cookies or homemade oat bars.

Available in Tesco, Sainsbury's, Waitrose, Morrisons, ASDA, Ocado, Amazon and Co-Op.

Angel Delight Bubble Jelly (£2.85 each) is a new product from the Angel Delight range. It's a fun new product, which combines the wibble-wobble wtih boba pearls.

There are three flavours to choose from, and you should receive one of three.

We got Lemonade Jelly flavour with Strawberry Boba, and it certainly delivers a burst of flavours in each bite/slurp.

Nutritional values: 86kcal and 20.8g of sugar per 130g pot; suitable for vegetarians. Keep it in the cupboard, or fridge, if you like it chilled. 

Available in ASDA, Sainsbury's, Morrisons, Ocado.

Whitworths Nutty Kitchen Original Supermince/ or Italian Supermince/ or Mexican Supermince (£3.20) is a new 100% natural meat-free mince.

You should receive 1 flavour of 3. 

We got Italian Supermince, which is made with chopped Californian walnuts, lentils and red quinoa, with an Italian seasoning blend. Use it to make a vegan Bolognese. One pack offers 4 servings.

Nutritional values: 307kcal and 0.59g of salt per 100g.

I didn't cook a Bolognese with it, but mixed with cooked rice and stuffed sweet peppers, which were roasted in the oven. 

Available on Ocado and Whitworths webshop.

What is your favourite product from the latest Degustabox?

March Box Degustabox: Hello, Spring and Easter

 Degustabox is a monthly food and drink subscription box. It's an excellent way of discovering new products which have only just appeared in the shops, or those which have been around for a while, but you haven't had a chance to try them yet.

Thanks to Degustabox, I have found new favourites to add to our shopping list, including some products which I otherwise wouldn't have tried.

Each time a monthly box arrives, its contents are a total surprise. You get a good selection of foods and drinks.

If you haven't tried Degustabox subscription box yet, and would like to have a go, I have a £3off discount from your first box (and you can unsubscribe any time), just use code DKRLN when placing an order. 

What did we get in March Box: Hello, Spring and Easter Degustabox?

Bisto Signature Chicken Ready to Use Gravy (£3.50) is Product of the Month. Made with natural ingredients, it's slowly simmered with succulent meat juices for maximum flavour.

Heat up on the hob, or in the microwave, and serve with the roast chicken.

If you have any leftover gravy, add it to your homemade pies or casseroles.

Nutritional values: 32kcal and 0.73g of salt per 83ml portion (one package = six servings).

Available in Tesco, Sainsbury's and Morrisons.

Urban Noodle Soba Noodle/or Ramen Noodle/ or Udon Noodle (£1.50) are designed for rich broths and hearty bowls.

These Japanese style noodles offer an authentic taste and texture. Ready in just 3-5 minutes.

Crafted with quality ingerdients and free from artificiail flavours, these noodles will make a quick and easy meal.

You will receive 1 item out of three. We got Soba Noodle, made from a mix of wheat and buckwheat flour, perfect for any stir fry meal, with chicken and vegetables, tuna or tofu.

Typical values: 346kcal and 1g of sugat per 100g.

Paxo Quick Cook Sage & Red Onion stuffing mix (£2.65) will come handy for our Easter meal.

One pack makes 12 stuffing balls, crispy outside and fluffy inside. Thanks to a blend of tasty herbs and rich flavours, the stuffing will enhance any roast meal.

Nutritional values: 45kcal and 0.26g of salt per 22g portion (stuffing ball); vegan; no artificial colours or preservatives.

Available in Sainsbury's, Morrisons and ASDA.

Kanzen Meal Japanese Curry (£3.50) is a quick and easy meal, which provides optimal nutritional balance at any time.

Each meal contains more than 20g of protein, 26 types of vitamins and minerals, and controls the amount of fat, sugar, saturated fatty acids and salt that are of concern. Kanzen means complete or perfect in Japanese.

Nutritional information: 129kcal and 0.57g of salt per 100g as prepared.

Available online.

I used this pot of rice as an ingredient for stuffed sweet peppers, as I have been trying to use odds and ends in the pantry before grocery shopping. I'm not quite sure what the meat-like pieces are supposed to be. I added less than a half of the curry seasoning.

It was tasty enough (but I do prefer meals with a simpler ingredients' list).

Sweet Freedom Fizz Pineapple & Coconut/ Lime & Mint/ Raspberry & Cranberry/ Mango & Mandarin sparkling water (£1.50) is a range of low calorie drinks.

There are four light flavours available, and you should receive one of four. We got Pineapple & Coconut. It was light and refreshing.

Nutritional values: 14kcal per can and 2.4g of sugar, no artificial sweeteners; made of all natural ingredients (pineapple and cocount, and also surprisingly, dandelion leaf and baobab, naturally sweetened with upcycled cocoa juice).

Available on www.sweetfreedom.co.uk and Amazon.

And finally, Nescafe Iced Classic Unsweetened Espresso Concentrated (£4.99) is the ultimate coffee hack.

If you enjoy iced coffee on hot days, this is a cost-effective concentrated coffee. 

A big bonus is that it is unsweetened. As much as I love iced coffee, most of the bottles/tins made by the major coffee brands are way too sweet, you can barely taste anything for the amount of sugar, so thumbs up for the unsweetened variety. 

To make a glass, just add milk of your choice and ice. One bottle makes 16 servings.

Nutritional values: 43kcal and 4.1g of sugar per 100ml prepared.

We had the same Espresso bottle last summer, which had the right weather for iced drinks. So far spring has been quite blustery and still chilly. If not iced drinks, what would you make with this coffee concentrate? Have you tried making a tiramisu with it? Please let me know.

Available in the major supermarket chains.

What's your favourite product from the latest box?

Degustabox February Box

 February is full of promise. The spring flowers are already out, our garden looks pretty with snowdrops and crocuses bringing a new hope of warmer days to come.

Degustabox is a monthly food and drink subscription box. It's an excellent way of discovering new products which have only just appeared in the shops, or those which have been around for a while, but you haven't had a chance to try them yet.

Thanks to Degustabox, I have found new favourites to add to our shopping list, including some products which I otherwise wouldn't have tried.

Each time a monthly box arrives, its contents are a total surprise. You get a good selection of foods and drinks.

If you haven't tried Degustabox subscription box yet, and would like to have a go, I have a £3off discount from your first box (and you can unsubscribe any time), just use code DKRLN when placing an order. 

What did we get in February Box Degustabox?

We start with Bisto Smooth Peppercorn Sauce (£2.95) a new product from the well-known and much loved range. 

Like many British families, we buy Bisto gravy granules for a quick and easy gravy. Last month we tried Bisto cheese sauce, and enjoyed it, so we were quite curious to try the new product.

Simply add 4 level tbsp of Bisto instant pepper sauce to 250ml boiling water and give it a quick stir until the sauce thickens.

It's perfect for lamb chops or poured over steak. For a vegetarian dish, use the granules to cook a veggie Bolognese.

Each tub contains 19 individual servings. 

Typical values: 42kcal and 0.41g of salt per 50ml portion as prepared; no artificial colours or preservatives.

Available in the major supermarket chains.

Wagamama Firecracker/ or Coconut +Lemongrass Curry sauce (£2.75)

You will receive one variety in the box. We got Firecracker curry sauce, which is a sweet and spicy sauce with sriracha and chilli. The label promises a bang to every bowl (and I'm taking their word for it. I haven't used this sauce, and will most likely pass it on a friend who enjoys extra spicy food).

The image of three peppers indicates a high level of spiciness. Recreate restaurant dishes at home, like prawn, chicken and tofu firecracker curry.

Nutritional values: 82kcal and 14g of sugar per 100g.

Available in Waitrose, Sainsbury's and Ocado.

Truly Nuts! Brazil Nuts (£3.99) are sustainably-sourced Amazon-harvested nuts, available plain or coated in rich Belgian chocolate, combining high selenium and healthy fats.

You will receive one variety of three. We got Buck Naked Whole & Raw Brazil nuts, unflavoured, unroasted and unsalted.

I have chuckled on seeing a pack of brazil nuts in the box, as I was talking to my Mum just the other day, and she said they were her favourites. I told her I wish I could give her the pack. Most likely, I will chop the brazils and use as an ingredient in baking cookies or muffins.

Nutritional values: 690kcal and 14g or protein per 100g.; high fibre, source of selenium, vegan friendly, gluten free and non-GMO. Packed in the UK with brazil nuts from Peru, Brazil and Bolivia.

Available in TG Jones (former WHSmith).

Snyder's of Havover Pretzel Pieces - Honey, Mustard & Onion (£2) are American-style snacks.

These pretzel pieces come in big crunchy chunks. The flavour is bold, very mustardy. Other varieties come in such flavours as Hot Buffalo Wings, Cheddar Cheese and Jalapeño.

I'm not sure what the final verdict is. they are not bad, but I do prefer small thin pretzels. Perhaps we need to try different favours to find out our favourite. I imagine this snack would be great with a glass of cold beer.

Nutritional values; 532kcal and 7.4g of sugar per 100g.

Available in Amazon, Ocado and quality convenience stores.

Tuk in Foods Lime Pickle Bombay Trail Mix (£1.50 for 40g) is a flavourful snack, which offers a combination of cashew nuts, roasted corn, Bombay mix, almonds, mustard seeds and plenty of spice.

The resulting mix promises to boost your energy levels, and is packed with nutrients.

Nutritional values: 222kcal and 0.26g of salt per 40g pouch; 7g protein, high in fibre, source of magnesium and vitamin E.

Available in independent retailers.

I was super excited to see three bottles of Filippo Berio squeezable olive oil (£7.99) in the box. I have seen the new products on Insta and did think they looked fab.

You would only receive one variety in the box (as a regular blogger I got all three flavours to try).

This is the same quality olive oil you expect from Filippo Berio, only coming in a squeezable bottle format for easier drizzling and finishing touches.With an easy-pour cap you can dispense oil without a mess. Great for so many dishes.

There is a Classico olive oil, composed of refined olive oils and virgin olive oils, great for cooking meat or vegetables.

Extra Virgin Olive Oil is produced from extra virgin olive oils from Greece, Italy, Portugal and Spain. Excellent for finishing and dressing salads or pasta.

And Chilli flavoured olive oil, hot and fiery, will enhance any pizza or add a dash of heat to a pasta sauce.

Available at www.filippoberio.co.uk or on Amazon.

As a subscriber, you will receive extra goodies to those shown above.

What product did you find the most delicious?

Degustabox January Box: Breakfast & Brunch

January is a month of new beginnings, resolutions and renewal, even if it's often considered to be the most miserable month after the excesses of December festivities. Ultimately it depends on your own outlook and perceptions. It can be a bit of both. To help you eat healthier (if indeed that one is one of your new year's resolutions), here is a January Breakfast & Brunch Degustabox.

Degustabox is a monthly food and drink subscription box. It's an excellent way of discovering new products which have only just appeared in the shops, or those which have been around for a while, but you haven't had a chance to try them yet.

Thanks to Degustabox, I have found new favourites to add to our shopping list, including some products which I otherwise wouldn't have tried.

Each time a monthly box arrives, its contents are a total surprise. You get a good selection of foods and drinks.

If you haven't tried Degustabox subscription box yet, and would like to have a go, I have a £3off discount from your first box (and you can unsubscribe any time), just use code DKRLN when placing an order. 

What did we get in January Box Degustabox?

Let's start with the Product of the Month - Bisto Creamy Cheese Sauce (£2.25), a new product from the well-known range. 

Like many British families, we buy Bisto gravy granules for a quick and easy gravy. We were quite curious to try this new product.

Simply add 4 level tbsp of Bisto cheese sauce to 250ml boiling water and give it a quick stir until the sauce thickens.

Lovely with homemade pasta bakes, lasagne and cauliflower cheese.

Each tub contains 19 individual servings. 

Typical values: 41kcal and 0.56g of salt per 50ml portion as prepared; no artificial colours or preservatives.

Available in the major supermarket chains.

Clearspring Organic Silken Tofu - Single Serve (£1.89) is made in Japan, using fresh water and real Nigari.

I have bought Clearspring silken tofu before, it is very delicate, and easily broken. For our favourite Teriyaki tofu dish I prefer a more robust tofu that would hold its shape after being cubed and fried. 

Silken tofu is great for recipes where it can be added and scrambled, or used in a tofu cheesecake recipe, where its delicate texture would be appreciated.

Typical values: 67kcal and 0g salt per 100g; gluten free, high protein, plant-based, vegan, non-GM.

Available on www.clearspring.co.uk, www.hollandandbarrett.com and in Planet Organic and independent health shops.

Sharwoods Chef's Special Tikka Masala Curry Kit (£2.80) is a curry kit with garlic & ginger paste and a creamy tomato Tikka sauce, crafted in India, using quality ingredients to create an authentic flavour.

The kit contains two pouches. Super convenient and very tasty too.

Just add diced chicken and serve with rice, naans and mango chutney. For a vegetarian version, use roast cauliflower or roast squash.

Typical values: 153kcal and 1.53g of salt per 1/2 pouch (this pouch contains appr. 2 portions); suitable for vegetarians; no artificial flavours, colours or preservatives.

Available in Sainsbury's, Morrisons, ASDA.

Cirio Passata Rustica (£1.50) is crafted from 100% Italian tomatoes, grown by dedicated farmers.

Always happy to have a Cirio product. Cirio is well-known for its delicious tomato-based products and brings a true Italian authentic flavour to your kitchen.

Cirio Passata Rustica consists of crushed tomatoes, perfect for a variety of homemade meals, from hearty pasta to pizza toppings. It has a chunky texture and a rich tomatoey flavour.

Nutritional information: 32kcal and 4.2g of sugar per 100g.

Available in Ocado, Sainsbury's and Waitrose.

Linwoods Overnight Oats 400g (£4 each) is part of the healthy breakfast range (a blend of oats, chia and plant protein). Protein & Energy overnight oats come in 4 flavours.

You should receive 1 variety in your box. We got Chocolate flavour protein overnight oats.

Just add milk & chill. 

Nutritional information: 195kcal and 0.2g of salt per 50g; gluten free; with fibre, Omega 3 and minerals.

If like me you're not a fan of chia or overnight oats, may I suggest using the blend as one of the ingredients for bakes (add a couple of tablespoons to the oat cookie dough for a healthier cookie).

Available in the major supermarket chains, health store chains and at www.linwoodshealthfoods.com.

nakd. fruit & nut bar Blueberry Muffin/ or Cocoa Orange (£1.50 each) is a raw fruit and nut bar, made with 100% natural ingredients and no added sugar. Their motto is "No ultra processing, no added sugar & no labels that sound like science kits". Amen to that.

You should receive 1 item of 2. We got the Blueberry Muffin flavour, which is made with dates, raisins, cashews, almonds, freeze-dried blueberries and natural flavouring. So flavourful.

Nutritional values: 166kcal and 22g sugar (naturally occurring) per bar.

All nakd. bars are gluten free and vegan.

Available in the major supermarket chains.

UP&GO Protein Chocolate/ or Vanilla (£2.50 each) is a convenient, high protein breakfast drink, designed to fuel your busy mornings.

Packed with 35g or protein, essential vitamins and minerals, it delivers sustained energy and nutrition in a smooth shake. 

You will receive one flavour of two. We got Chocolate breakfast drink.

Nutritional information: 397kcal and 33.5g of sugar per 500ml; high in protein, high in calcium, 11 essential vitamins and minerals, no artificial  colours.

Available in Tesco and Co-Op.

Mission Carb Balance Original Wraps (£1.80) are a healthier choice for any mealtime.

With only 9g of carbs per wrap (66% less than Mission Original Wraps), they balance high fibre with lower carbs.

There are four wraps in a pack. Enjoy them for breakfast or lunch or any mealtime, as burritos, tacos, fajitas or dessert (with chocolate spread and chopped bananas).

Nutritional values: 125kcal and 0.55g of salt per  wrap; high fibre, suitable for vegans.

Available in the major supermarket chains.

Pip Organic Pineapple & Mango Smoothie (£1.50) is a delightful organic fruit smoothie.

Each smoothie provides 1 of your 5 a day. Each carton contains 1.5 apples, 1/4 of a banana, 1/4 of a pineapple, a chunk of mango and a dash of squeezed orange.

Typical values: 53kcal and 11.9g of sugar (naturally occurring) per 100ml; no added sugar, no nasty additives, no added sweeteners, non-GM.

Available in Ocado, Abel & Cole and Pip Organic website.

You should receive 2 items in your box.

If you subscribe to a Degusta Plus Box, you will receive an extra treat.

What is your favourite product in the latest Degustabox?