Let’s pause for King Prawn Noodles, the high-roller of the range. The prawns are plump and almost taut, like they’ve been doing crunches. The soy-based sauce is sinfully rich, and you’ll find yourself licking the tray—don’t lie, you do it. But the shocking truth? These prawns were probably frozen at sea before you even finished your last lunch. That’s the kind of efficiency that should be celebrated, not feared.
Then there’s the Char Siu Pulled Pork, a newer addition that feels like a warm hug from a very trendy chef. The pork is slow-cooked until it falls apart like a bad relationship, and the hoisin glaze is sticky-sweet with a hit of five-spice. The noodles underneath are a bit of a wild card, though—sometimes they’re perfectly al dente, other times they’re a mushy mess. It’s like a lottery, but the prize is always delicious anyway.
Marks and Spencer's £12 Chinese box is 'better than a takeaway
The Secret Weapon: The Sides
Never, ever skip the Egg Fried Rice. This isn’t just rice; it’s a fluffy, golden cloud of carbs that has been kissed by a wok. The peas add a pop of sweetness, and the egg is scrambled so fine it’s practically invisible. Fun fact: M&S uses a specific type of long-grain rice that’s grown on a single farm in Spain. Yes, your microwave dinner has geography lessons built in.
Then there are the Spring Rolls, which are dangerously moreish. They’re crispy, packed with bean sprouts and shredded veg, and they come with a plum sauce that’s so good you’ll start looking for excuses to dip other things into it. I once saw a grown adult dip a chicken nugget into it. No judgment.
But the real unsung hero? The Wonton Soup. The broth is clear and aromatic, not greasy, and the wontons are little parcels of joy with a pork and prawn filling. The best part? Each pack serves one, so there’s no sharing drama. Just you, a spoon, and a moment of quiet bliss.
I tried the M&S £15 Chinese meal deal — the £5.50 main was incredible
