For time-poor Brits, ready-made mashed potatoes promise the comfort of homemade spuds without the peeling, boiling and mashing. But do these supermarket shortcuts deliver on flavour and texture, or are they a disappointing compromise?
The Great Mash-Off: Our Testing Method
We gathered ready-made mash from all the major UK supermarkets, preparing each according to package instructions. Our panel judged them blind on texture, flavour, and overall appeal, asking the crucial question: could this pass for homemade?
The Standout Winner
One supermarket's offering consistently impressed our tasters with its creamy texture and authentic potato flavour. Described as "surprisingly close to the real thing," this mash had the perfect balance of butteriness without being overly rich or artificial tasting.
The Mid-Range Contenders
Several brands delivered respectable results that, while not quite matching homemade standards, offered decent convenience for busy weeknights. These varieties typically scored well on texture but sometimes lacked depth of flavour or had a slightly processed aftertaste.
The Bottom of the Barrel
At the other end of the spectrum, some ready-made mashes disappointed with watery consistency, artificial flavours, or unappealing grey colour. One taster noted of the worst performer: "Tastes like disappointment in a tub."
What Makes Good Ready-Made Mash?
- Texture is key: The perfect mash should be smooth but not gluey, with enough body to hold its shape
- Ingredient quality matters: Simpler ingredient lists with real butter and milk typically outperform those with numerous additives
- Price doesn't always equal quality: Some budget options held their own against premium competitors
- Preparation method affects results: Following package instructions precisely made a significant difference to the final product
Are They Worth Your Money?
While no ready-made mash completely replicates the satisfaction of homemade, our testing revealed several options that provide genuine convenience without sacrificing too much on quality. For those evenings when time is short but comfort food cravings are strong, the best supermarket mashes offer a credible solution.
The ultimate verdict? Some brands deserve a permanent spot in your freezer for emergency dinners, while others should be avoided no matter how desperate the situation. The gap between the best and worst is wider than you might imagine.
