As the festive season approaches, Australians are becoming increasingly savvy shoppers, especially with the cost-of-living pressures that have become a significant concern. Everyone is looking for that perfect balance of quality and value, particularly when it comes to the centerpiece of many Christmas feasts: the much-loved ham.
In the spirit of giving, consumer advocacy group Choice has done the heavy lifting for us, conducting a comprehensive taste test to determine which supermarket offers the best-tasting Christmas ham. The results are in, and they may just surprise you.
IGA has taken the crown for the second year running with its Seven Mile Premium Double Smoked Leg Ham, which boasts a smoky aroma, moist texture, and a pleasant flavour that’s sure to delight any Christmas dinner guest. This ham, which is exclusive to IGA, not only tantalised the taste buds of the judges but also scored an impressive 79 per cent on Choice’s rating scale.
What’s even more remarkable is the value for money this ham represents. At just $12 per kilo, the IGA ham proves that price is not always a direct reflection of quality. This is a welcome revelation for those of us who are watching our wallets without wanting to compromise on the quality of our festive fare.
Choice’s rigorous blind taste test included 10 supermarket-branded Christmas hams from the big players: Woolworths, Coles, Aldi, and IGA. The hams were judged on several criteria, including flavour, appearance, and texture. While IGA’s offering came out on top, there were other notable hams that deserve a mention.
Aldi’s Specially Selected Premium Triple Smoked Half Leg Ham, priced at $13.49 per kilo, IGA’s Naturally Smoked Leg Ham Bone, at a very affordable $8 per kilo, and Woolworths’ Half Leg Ham Bone all scored a commendable 76 per cent.
On the other end of the spectrum, Coles’ Finest Free-Range Triple Smoked Leg Ham Portion received a less-than-stellar rating of 58 per cent. Despite its premium positioning and the use of free-range pork, which earned it silver medals at prestigious food awards, the ham’s flavour was described by judges as ‘unpleasant’, ‘unusual’, or ‘lacking’.
However, it’s not all bad news for Coles. The supermarket giant has close to 100 other convenient products available for the holiday season, many of which are designed for easy preparation, allowing you to simply pop them in the oven or microwave.
As we prepare for the joyous Christmas season, it’s heartening to know that there are quality options available that won’t break the bank. Whether you’re hosting a grand family gathering or a modest meal for two, the right ham can make all the difference.
So, as you pen your shopping list and ready yourself for the holiday rush, consider the findings from Choice’s taste test. Remember, the best-tasting Christmas ham might just be a trip to IGA away.
Have you tried any of these hams? Do you have a go-to supermarket for your Christmas feast essentials? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below, and let’s spread the festive cheer with delicious recommendations!
