HelloFresh: The Week 1 Finale – Pak Choi, Tofu Trauma, and the Final Verdict

We’ve officially finished our first week! We wrapped it up with the Indonesian-Style Hoisin Tofu, and I have to say, it was a total hit for the grown-ups.

The "New Veg" Challenge

I’ll admit it: I have never cooked pak choi in my life. I actually had to Google how to chop it! But that’s exactly why I’m doing this—to break out of my usual rut. Aside from the quick Google lesson, the recipe was straightforward and the taste was delicious.

The Tofu Trial

My husband has some historic "tofu-induced trauma" (don't ask), so he left a fair bit of his protein on the plate. For the kids, it was a bit of a "porridge night." They were brave, managed about five bites each, and then decided against it. The spice crept in again! At least they tried, right?

The Big Realization: 3 Out of 4 Are Keepers!

The most interesting part of this week wasn't actually the box—it was what happened afterward. I actually recreated the Chickpea Flatbreads for lunch today using only items I already had in my pantry, and it was delicious (and nowhere near as spicy as my first attempt)!

Out of the four meals we tried, I’d say three of them are definitely "keepers" that I will make again. I’ve worked out that I can make most of these meals at home myself for significantly cheaper, but I really value the delivery convenience and the burst of inspiration they’ve given me.

The HelloFresh Final Review

1. Price & Discounts: 8/10

At just shy of £30 for 4 meals (for 3 people), it was great value, and we even had some leftovers. However, I personally wouldn’t pay the full price. It’s brilliant for the introductory period, but the "real" price tag feels a bit steep.

2. Taste & Health: 7/10

The flavours improved as the week went on. I loved being "forced" to try new greens like pak choi! However, looking closely at the sauce sachets, some don't pass the "Grandma’s cupboard check"—some of their sauces contain a lot of processed ingredients you wouldn't keep in a standard kitchen.

3. Referrals: 9/10

If you want to try it, the referral offers are honestly the best part. You can get a massive discount to see if it works for your family (1 box free for the first week?!)

The Final Verdict: Would I buy it again?

Not without a discount. I’ve loved the inspiration, and the Mushroom Bourguignon (veganised with my nutritional yeast and Rude Health milk!) is a new family staple. But for full price, I’d rather use that money to buy fresh, plastic-free ingredients. Thanks for the ideas, HelloFresh, but we’re moving on!

Coming Up Next: GOUSTO 📦

Next week, we are switching it up. I’ve heard Gousto has a bigger range (and it's coming in at just £1.46 per serving!), but will it be any better for the kids?

Will you try it alongside me? Click here to grab your first box at a bargain price and let’s see if we can beat the "dinner rut" together!

Comment which dinners you'll be trialling this week!