These Baked Beans Reviews are Causing an Uproar – Find Out Why Your Taste Buds Might Never Forgive You!
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Baked beans – they're the quintessential comfort food that has graced Australian breakfast tables for generations. Whether it's the nostalgia of a parent's cooking or the simple need for a quick, hearty meal, baked beans have become a staple in pantries across the nation. But not all baked beans are created equal, and a recent taste test has stirred up quite the conversation among bean aficionados.
Before diving into the results, let's ponder for a moment – what does make a good tin of baked beans? Is it the rich, tomatoey sauce, the firmness of the beans, or the delicate balance of sweetness and savouriness that transports us back to the simplicity of childhood? It seems that a good tin of baked beans should be like a warm hug from the past – uncomplicated, reliable, and ready in a pinch.
With these criteria in mind, a group of reviewers set out to taste test nine different supermarket brands of baked beans, seeking that perfect blend of nostalgia and taste. The beans were judged on their flavour and texture, with each brand microwaved for two minutes and served blind. The reviewers were unforgiving with brands that strayed too far from the classic taste profile, seeking that familiar comfort above all else.
Interestingly, despite the variety of brands on the market, there was a surprising uniformity in the basic ingredients and bean-to-sauce ratios. This made for few standouts, but it also meant that the true essence of a good baked bean could shine through without the distraction of unnecessary innovation.
For those seeking the best overall experience, SPC Baked Beans Rich Tomato took the crown with a score of 8/10. It was praised for its savoury umami flavour and a hint of spice that set it apart from the rest. The fact that it's made in Australia only adds to its charm, offering a local option for those who prefer to support Australian-made products.
When it comes to value, Woolworths Baked Beans in Tomato Sauce scored a 7/10, impressing reviewers with beans that maintained their integrity and bite after microwaving – a testament to their quality. The sauce was noted for being more tomatoey than its competitors, a plus for those who prefer a stronger tomato base.
Other brands like Wattie’s and Corale had their own unique appeals, with Wattie’s offering a bold, smoky flavour and Corale winning hearts with its wholesome, comforting taste. Heinz, a brand synonymous with baked beans, delivered a smoky and less sweet profile that divided opinions, while Coles Baked Beans were described as a 'salt-less wasteland' yet still managed to meet the basic expectations of edibility and satisfaction.
On the other end of the spectrum, F. Whitlock & Sons Killer Beans Smoky Campfire BBQ tried too hard with its smoky flavour and mix of beans, resulting in a disappointing 4.5/10 score. The health-focused brands like Macro Wholefoods Market and Oh So Natural Organic fell short, with reviewers suggesting that if health is your priority, you might be better off starting with plain beans and adding your own sauce.
The taste test revealed that while there are few surprises in the world of baked beans, the comfort and nostalgia they evoke remain as potent as ever. It's clear that when it comes to baked beans, Australians have a deep-seated love for the classic, uncomplicated flavours of their youth.
So, dear readers, next time you're standing in the supermarket aisle, pondering which tin to take home, remember that the best baked beans are not just about the price or the health claims on the label. They're about the memories they stir and the simple pleasure they bring to your taste buds. And if you've had a similar taste-testing experience or have a favourite brand of your own, we'd love to hear about it in the comments below!
Before diving into the results, let's ponder for a moment – what does make a good tin of baked beans? Is it the rich, tomatoey sauce, the firmness of the beans, or the delicate balance of sweetness and savouriness that transports us back to the simplicity of childhood? It seems that a good tin of baked beans should be like a warm hug from the past – uncomplicated, reliable, and ready in a pinch.
A taste test of nine supermarket baked bean brands evaluated their flavour and texture. Credit: CHOICE
With these criteria in mind, a group of reviewers set out to taste test nine different supermarket brands of baked beans, seeking that perfect blend of nostalgia and taste. The beans were judged on their flavour and texture, with each brand microwaved for two minutes and served blind. The reviewers were unforgiving with brands that strayed too far from the classic taste profile, seeking that familiar comfort above all else.
Interestingly, despite the variety of brands on the market, there was a surprising uniformity in the basic ingredients and bean-to-sauce ratios. This made for few standouts, but it also meant that the true essence of a good baked bean could shine through without the distraction of unnecessary innovation.
For those seeking the best overall experience, SPC Baked Beans Rich Tomato took the crown with a score of 8/10. It was praised for its savoury umami flavour and a hint of spice that set it apart from the rest. The fact that it's made in Australia only adds to its charm, offering a local option for those who prefer to support Australian-made products.
When it comes to value, Woolworths Baked Beans in Tomato Sauce scored a 7/10, impressing reviewers with beans that maintained their integrity and bite after microwaving – a testament to their quality. The sauce was noted for being more tomatoey than its competitors, a plus for those who prefer a stronger tomato base.
Other brands like Wattie’s and Corale had their own unique appeals, with Wattie’s offering a bold, smoky flavour and Corale winning hearts with its wholesome, comforting taste. Heinz, a brand synonymous with baked beans, delivered a smoky and less sweet profile that divided opinions, while Coles Baked Beans were described as a 'salt-less wasteland' yet still managed to meet the basic expectations of edibility and satisfaction.
On the other end of the spectrum, F. Whitlock & Sons Killer Beans Smoky Campfire BBQ tried too hard with its smoky flavour and mix of beans, resulting in a disappointing 4.5/10 score. The health-focused brands like Macro Wholefoods Market and Oh So Natural Organic fell short, with reviewers suggesting that if health is your priority, you might be better off starting with plain beans and adding your own sauce.
The taste test revealed that while there are few surprises in the world of baked beans, the comfort and nostalgia they evoke remain as potent as ever. It's clear that when it comes to baked beans, Australians have a deep-seated love for the classic, uncomplicated flavours of their youth.
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