I rarely have Indian takeaways or restaurant meals but when I do I order a medium spiced chicken dish such as a bhuna, biriyani or dopiaza accompanied by pilau rice and a naan. I perceive Patak's as a supplier of authentic Indian food and the packaging seems to convey this. It is attractive, if a little fussy, and has obviously been designed for people who don't like washing-up as it can be eaten straight from the carton. Maybe Patak's should go the whole hog and include a plastic fork? All the varieties look very similar though and, in a rush, I could pick up the wrong flavour ­ individual colour coding may help prevent this. Cooking instructions ­ three and a half minutes in the microwave ­ are indicated clearly on the front and back. I was impressed with each balance of rice, sauce, vegetables and meat. There was also a significant dose of spice, although perhaps a bit much in the Korma, which is supposedly a mild dish. The Tikka Masala had a pleasantly sour taste, accentuated by lemon and coriander; the Balti a solid tomato flavour with a good spice level and what seemed to be caramelised onion; and the Biriyani was also quite sour but garlicky ­ it seemed to be the hottest of the four. I enjoyed the Tikka Masala the most, the Korma the least. I think they're good value for money and, because they come under the magic £2 figure, I would definitely consider buying them ­ especially as they are as tasty and filling as significantly more expensive equivalents. The only problem is whether or not I'd notice them. I wouldn't normally associate Patak's with ready meals and I'm not convinced these would stand out on a crowded chiller shelf against similar products. Perhaps Patak's should go for something a bit different to stand out as a premium brand? {{P&P }}

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