Showing posts with label snacks. Show all posts
Showing posts with label snacks. Show all posts

Wednesday, 7 October 2026

Degustabox Family Sharing & Cooking (September) 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 Family Sharing & Cooking/ September Box?


Chez Maximka, Degustabox food box


Paxo Golden Breadcrumbs (£1.70) is the Product of the Month. This product from Paxo is a really handy cupboard staple.

The golden breadcrumbs give a lovely crisp, crunchy coating and are especially good for adding texture to meals. Use with chicken, fish or veggies - cover in flour, dip into a beaten egg and then coat in golden breadcrumbs.

My son who's been recently cooking for us more often, used Paxo breadcrumbs to cook chicken fillets to serve in brioche buns with salad, mayo, crispy bacon and ranch sauce. 

I wondered if I might also use them in an apple strudel, as we have a big harvest in the garden (since I first wrote it, I actually cooked an apple and plum strudel and used Paxo breadcrumbs mixed in the filling, it worked very well). Have you tried cooking sweet dishes with these breadcrumbs?

The resealable tub makes them easy to keep on hand. Simple, versatile and very useful.

Nutritional information: 0.36g of salt and 86kcal per 24g portion; no artificial colours.

Available in Tesco, Morrisons, ASDA and Ocado.


Chez Maximka, Degustabox food box


Homepride Marry Me Chicken Pasta Bake Sauce (£2.65) is a really convenient way to make a comforting pasta bake without lots of prep. This is a new addition to the Homepride range..

The creamy sauce has a lovely rich flavour, with the sundried tomato and herbs adding plenty of character.

Great for a quick midweek dinner when you want something tasty with minimal effort.

Nutritional values: 0.97g of salt and 87kcal per 121g portion (1/4 jar); no artificial colours, flavours or preservatives.

Available in Tesco, ASDA, Morrisons, Iceland and B&M.


Chez Maximka, Degustabox food box



Ko-Lee Thai Sensation Instant Noodles (£0.70 each) are surprisingly tasty instant noodle options with lots of Thai-inspired flavour.

The fragrant curry seasoning gives them a lovely aromatic kick, and they are incredibly quick and easy to prepare (super for teens who seem to be hungry as soon as they come home from school, or just an hour later after an evening meal).

You should receive 3 flavours: Thai Massaman Curry, Thai Red Curry and Thai Chicken Green Curry.

Thai Massaman Curry is a meal of noodles in a mildly spiced coconut curry with a medley of vegetables and warm, aromatic flavours. Nutritional values; 3.6g of salt, 12g of sugar and 460kcal.

Thai Chicken Green Curry is a pack of noodles in a spiced broth with the aroma of green curry, flagrant lemongrass and a hint of coconut. Nutritional values: 4.88g of salt, 5g of sugar and 424kcal per 100g.

Thai Red Curry is a pack of noodles in a lightly spiced coconut curry with the heat of chilli and fragrant herbs. Nutritional values: 4.5g of salt, 6.6g of sugar and 461kcal per 100g.

Great for a speedy lunch, or a little fakeaway, when you don't want to spend ages in the kitchen.

Ready in minutes with just hot water. Add a sprinkling of fresh herbs, like chopped parsley, coriander or spring onions for an extra flavour and texture.

Available in Amazon and major supermarket chains.


Chez Maximka, Degustabox food box


Maggi Global Kitchen Teriyaki Noodles with Chicken & Mushroom Risotto with Chicken (£3 each) are new products in the Maggi range.

You should receive 1 item of two. We got Global Kitchen Mushroom Risotto with Chicken, made with brown rice. 

Ready in just 2 minutes, it is a source of protein, and is low in saturated fat. Easy and convenient to use, it is a good kitchen staple. Saying that, the consistency of this risotto is more of a thick soup. 

Nutritional values: 1.5g of salt and 245kcal per 260g serving.

Available in Tesco and Morrisons.


Chez Maximka, Degustabox food box


Fruit Bowl Peelers (£2.95) are made with real fruit, 1 of your 5 a day, a source of fibre, gluten free and plant based.

A lovely snack for the whole family, they are ideal for lunch boxes. Peelers are made by squashing juicy apples and sweet strawberries together with a little fruit juice.

Nutritional values: 5.8g of sugar and 31kcal per 1 peeler (there are 5 in a box).

Available in all major supermarkets.


Chez Maximka, Degustabox food box


Jacob's Bites Salt & Vinegar Flavour (£2) is a new addition to Jacob's range (by now we have tried other flavours as well).

These cracker bites are lovely on their own, or with a dip of your choice. Generously seasoned with sea salt and with a tangy flavour of the malt vinegar, they are baked to perfection.

Each 25g serving contains 0.4g of salt and 119kcal. No added palm oil, artificial colours or flavours, suitable for vegetarians.

A sharing box won't last long.

Available in the major supermarket chains.


Chez Maximka, Degustabox food box



Rubicon Cherry Burst (£1.29) is a refreshing fruit-flavoured sparkling drink.

Made with real fruit juice, Cherry Burst tastes like summer in a glass, with a mix of ripe cherry and juicy peach.

Best served chilled over ice.

Nutritional values: 11g of sugar and 48kcal per 250ml.

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


Chez Maximka, Degustabox food box


Voss Lime & Mint Sparkling (£1.59) is a flavoured water in a can. 

I buy Voss still water in glass bottles, but this was the first time we've tried flavoured Voss. The flavours are subtle, and the taste is crisp. Very refreshing.

With zero calories, and none of the artificial sweeteners, this drink is a lovely alternative to traditional fizzy drinks.

You should receive 2 items in your box.

Available in Holland & Barrett, Ocado and Amazon.


Chez Maximka, Degustabox food box

What's your favourite product from the latest box?

Saturday, 5 September 2026

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?


Chez Maximka, Degustabox food 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.


Chez Maximka, Degustabox food box



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).


Chez Maximka, Degustabox food box


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.


Chez Maximka, Degustabox food box


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.


Chez Maximka, Degustabox food box


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.


Chez Maximka, Degustabox food box



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.


Chez Maximka, Degustabox food box


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.


Chez Maximka, Degustabox food box


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.


Chez Maximka, Degustabox food box

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. 

Monday, 20 July 2026

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?


Chez Maximka, Degustabox food 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.


Chez Maximka, Degustabox food box


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.


Chez Maximka, Degustabox food box


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.


Chez Maximka, Degustabox food box


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.


Chez Maximka, Degustabox food 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.


Chez Maximka, Degustabox food box


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?


Sunday, 5 July 2026

Degustabox June 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 June Box?


Chez Maximka, Degustabox food box


Tilda Limited Ediiton Jamaican Spiced Pumpkin Rice (£1.25) is a Product of the Month.

When I saw Tilda on socials promoting a new product in their range, I was hoping Degustabox would have it in one of their boxes, and was pleased to see it in the latest box. 

My family enjoys Tilda, and I buy it regularly. We have our own favourites, and are always glad to try any new flavour.

Tilda Limited Edition Jamaican Spiced Pumpkin Rice is developed in collaboration with Original Flava.

Ingredients include steamed long grain rice with vegetables, like pumpkin, onion, carrot, as well as herbs and spices (Caribbean flavour seasoning), coconut cream and Scotch Bonnet chilli. It is vegetarian and gluten free.

Recommended pairing: Brown Chicken stew, Jerk chicken. 

Available in major supermarkets and tilda.com.


Chez Maximka, Degustabox food box


I served this rice with a tuna salad and a fried egg. It is a flavourful rice, not too hot. I would have liked a bit higher pumpkin to rice ratio, but it is tasty.


Chez Maximka, Degustabox food box


Fragata Marinated Olives with Olive Oil & Lemon /or Olive Oil & Hot Chilli (£1.70 each) are tasty Spanish snacks with lots of flavour.

You should receive 1 of two items. We got Fragata Marinated Olives with Olive Oil & Lemon, a product I often buy to keep in the pantry. It's very handy for easy and quick meals, salads, picnics, so called picky bits and cheese board. 

These olives are zesty and citrusy.

Nutritional information: 36kcal and 0.1g of sugar per 18g serving.

Available in local conveience stores.


Chez Maximka, Degustabox food box

Rio Mare Insalatissime Mexican Style (£2.99) is one of the products from the extensive Rio Mare range.

Rio Mare tuna is widely known for its quality and taste. A lovely product to keep in the pantry, for when you fancy a tuna pasta, or tuna salad. 

Ready to eat any time thanks to the stay-fresh packaging, with no added preservatives.

This salad with a Mexican twist will be enjoyed by those who love bolder flavours. Tuna in this salad comes with red beans, sweetcorn and peppers.

Nutritional information: 196kcal and 1.1g of salt per 100g. Features: Ready to eat. Dolphine safe, traceable fish, no preservatives, MSC certified, responsible quality.

Available in Waitrose, Morrisons, ASDA, Ocado and Amazon.


Chez Maximka, Degustabox food box


I added cucumbers, olives and spring onions to the salad.


Chez Maximka


Mission Wraps High Fibre Tortilla Wraps 4 pack (£1.80) are a healthier choice during any mealtime.

They are packed with flavour and 10g of fibre per wrap. Enjoy them as a breakfast burrito, a quick lunch wrap or dinner fajitas.

Or go decadent. During the recent heatwave, I didn't fancy cooking much, so I served these wraps with caramelised hot banana chunks and vanilla ice cream, like a pocket of deliciousness. It was filling and very satisfying. 

No photos, as the sweet wraps were eaten too fast.

Available in Sainsbury's, ASDA and Ocado.


Chez Maximka, Degustabox food box


Mission Wraps Mission Sourdough Tortilla Wraps 4 pack (£1.80) is another great tasting product from the range. 

Wraps make easy and quick meals, and the possibilities are endless, just add your favourite fillings and toppings, either sweet or savoury.

Nutritional information: 188kcal, 4.9g of protein and 0.49g of salt per wrap.

Available in Tesco, Sainsbury's, ASDA and Ocado.


Chez Maximka, Degustabox food box

Jacob's Cream Crackers (£1.70) is the original toppable cracker.

A perfect base for any cheese - strong Cheddar, mild Brie, goat's cheese, cream cheese, Stilton, etc. Add a slice of apple or chutney for a sweet note, or a slice of tomato and spring onions for a more savoury version. 

Each cracker contains 35kcal and 0.1g of salt.

Available in all major supermarkets.


Chez Maximka, Degustabox food box


Kallo's Beetroot & Balsamic Veggie Cakes (£1.40) are now available in a handy snack pack, for when you're feeling peckish on the go.

Made with wholesome ingredients, these veggie cakes are light, crunchy and flavourful. The smaller portion will fit into your lunch box, so that you can have a balanced snack anywhere.

Lovely with hummus or cream cheese.

Nutritional values: 409kcal and 1.4g of salt per 100g (one pack of 3 veggie cakes is 114kcal).

Available in all major supermarket chains.


Chez Maximka, Degustabox food box


Ambrosia Devon Custard Pot 150g & Devon Chocolate Custard Pot 150g (£1 each) could be eaten on their own, or as part of a dessert. Serve with a crumble, or pour over a fruit salad.

Made in Devon Creamery using West Country milk, each creamy pot has no artificial colours, flavours or preservatives.

Nutritional values: 144kcal and 15.9g of sugar per pot (Devon custard) and 150kcal and 17.1g of sugar per pot (Chocolate custard); suitable for vegetarians.

Available in all major supermarket chains.


Chez Maximka, Degustabox food box


Harry Brompton's Iced Tea/Peach (£1.80) is a premium British black tea infused with natural peach flavours. Very flavourful and super refreshing, especially in hot weather.

Brewed with the finest organic Kenyan tea ethically sourced from the Great Rift Valley and infused with the juice of ripe peaches.

Only 70kcal, vegan, gluten free, and a Great Taste Award winner.

Available in the major supermarket chains.


Chez Maximka, Degustabox food box


Nescafe Espresso Concentrated Iced Mocha & Iced Decaf (£5 each) is a must for those of us who enjoy iced coffee.

With one heat wave after another, I am quite obsessed with an iced coffee, which I make with pistachio milk, lots of ice and Nescafe Espresso Concentrated. Depending on the time of the day, I vary, whether to have a caf/decaf version. This drink is so good. You can play with different types of milk, from dairy to plant-based. I like unsweetened pistachio milk, but almond milk is pretty good too.

Each bottle offers 16 servings of instant, barista-style iced coffee (latte or Americano) at home, without the machines.

Available in a range of flavours, from Classic to Caramel and Vanilla. 

Nutritional information: 57kcal and 7.4g of sugar per 100ml prepared (Iced Mocha); 43kcal and 4.1g of sugar per 100ml prepared (Iced Decaf).

Available in the coffee aisle.

You should receive 1 item in your box.




Chez Maximka, Degustabox food box


What product is your favourite from the June box?

Monday, 4 May 2026

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?


Chez Maximka, food subscription box


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.


Chez Maximka, non alcoholic wine


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.


Chez Maximka, Degustabox food box

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.


Chez Maximka, dinner ideas


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.


Chez Maximka, Degustabox food box



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.


Chez Maximka, Degustabox food box


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.


Chez Maximka, Degustabox food box


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.


Chez Maximka, Degustabox food box

What is your favourite product from the latest Degustabox?

Tuesday, 3 March 2026

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?


Chez Maximka, subscription food box



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.


Chez Maximka, Degustabox food box




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.


Chez Maximka, Degustabox food box


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).


Chez Maximka, Degustabox food box


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.


Chez Maximka


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.


Chez Maximka, Degustabox food box


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.


Chez Maximka, Degustabox food box

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

What product did you find the most delicious?