Alexander Milligan
Today’s take on the
old multicourse meal
in the foil tray.
Winner: Marie
Callender’s Beef Salisbury Steak & Gravy, $3.50
The gravy accompanying the moist, surprisingly tasty meat was rich, peppery, and not oversalted like most packaged gravies. The red-skinned potato wedges were excellent, and bits of bacon gave the almost-crisp green beans a pleasing smoky flavor.
Runner-up: Boston Market Country Fried Chicken, $4
“It really tastes like Boston Market,” said a tester
who grew up on the chain’s takeout. The chicken patty was tender and juicy, with a crisp, ungreasy coating and “nicely seasoned” country-style gravy. The mashed potatoes weren’t watery like most of the others that were tested. Even the glazed peas and carrots were delicious.