Admittedly, I’m starting to feel a bit overwhelmed by the upcoming Christmas festivities. Even though the official start of the holiday season is yet to arrive, I seem to have already indulged in enough Christmas cuisine to last me for years.
With just 68 days remaining until the grand celebration, the anticipation for a flood of festive delights, centerpieces, and accompaniments is building. Recently, I had the opportunity to explore the Christmas offerings of Marks & Spencer in a unique behind-the-scenes experience.
In a departure from their usual showcases, Marks & Spencer hosted an exclusive event featuring an intimate sit-down banquet-style three-course meal, surprise guest appearance by chef Tom Kerridge included.
There have been murmurs and concerns regarding the pricing of certain items in M&S’s Christmas Food to Order range. Notably, the Collection Fillet of British Beef Wellington by Tom has raised eyebrows with its hefty price tag of £195 as reported by the Express.
Instead of the high-priced beef Wellington, we were served the Collection British Turkey & Stuffing Wellington by Tom, priced at a relatively more reasonable £110. Indulging in such a lavish Christmas feast was beyond my expectations, especially considering the significant cost of even turkey crowns.
Picture a Christmas dinner elegantly encased in puff pastry – that’s the essence of the British Turkey & Stuffing Wellington. This exquisite dish features slow-cooked turkey breast enveloping a delectable stuffing of pork, apple, chestnut, and cranberry, all topped with pulled turkey thigh and a flaky pastry dusted with pork crackling.
Accompanying the Wellington were the Hot Maple Glazed Turkey Crown, Wagyu Dripping Roast Potatoes, Best Ever Double Wrapped Pigs in Blankets, Collection Brussels Sprout and Leek Gratin, Turkey & Thyme Gravy, and Collection Cranberry & Port Sauce. A mouthful in more ways than one.
Initially skeptical, I was prepared to criticize the Turkey Wellington, questioning its quality and M&S’s pricing strategy. However, I was pleasantly surprised.
The Collection British Turkey & Stuffing Wellington by Tom emerged as the star centerpiece of this festive season. Roasted to perfection, the succulent turkey and the delightful pork crackling puff pastry created a harmonious blend of flavors.
Notably, the pulled turkey thigh stole the show for me. Bringing a rich, new depth of flavor to the traditional bird, it added a unique touch to the dish, making every penny spent on it worthwhile.
Acknowledging the debate around its pricing, especially in the current economic climate, I would recommend trying out this exquisite dish if your budget allows. For those more budget-conscious, perhaps a home cooking tutorial from Tom could make this premium experience more accessible.
While the pigs in blankets fell short of my expectations, appearing undercooked, the roast potatoes lacked the desired crispiness and fluffiness inside.