2023-11-28 16:19:24
This opinion piece is part of a series from Narcity Media. The opinions expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the position of Narcity Media on the subject.
While the cubes of salmon from Costco, used to make your own poke bowl, are among the favorites of fan club “Costco junkies,” it was this fall that pre-prepared options at $21.99 for two servings began circulating on social media. That was all it took to arouse my interest! It is very difficult to establish the arrival date of an item in Costco warehouses, given that inventory tends to vary from one establishment – and one province – to another. However, the thing that sincerely interests us is not to know how long they have been available in Quebec, but rather to determine whether the quality-price ratio is attractive.
Knowing that take-out poké bowls sold by popular restaurants cost around twenty dollars per unit, it’s quite surprising to see two meals of this type, with salmon, being offered for the price of one.
These packages, which seem perfect for fresh and affordable meals on the go, were therefore submitted to the Narcity Québec taste test, where the choice and quality of ingredients, flavors as well as price are evaluated.
Costco poke bowl ingredients
The packaging of two salmon poke bowls from Costco.
These are two packages of 200 grams each which are sold as a duo. Unitary purchase is not an option.
Each salmon poke includes:
– Rice
– Cubes of Atlantic salmon in its marinade seasoned with sesame seeds
– Cucumbers
– Small cubes of mango
– Carrots
– Des edamames
– Spicy mayonnaise
At first glance, I find this recipe quite complete and interesting.
Note that the label bears the words “contains wheat, fish, soy, sesame, eggs, mustard, sulphites” and “may contain nuts, crustaceans, molluscs, milk”.
The taste of the Costco poke bowl
The Costco salmon poke bowl.
At this price, I must admit that my expectations were not the highest, even if I read several fairly positive reviews on social networks.
As for the salmon, which is the most important element in my eyes, it meets my expectations. First of all, the size of the cubes is just perfect. The marinade, which tastes mostly like sesame oil and ginger, is surprisingly delicious. Reading the ingredients on the label, I see that it also includes rice vinegar, sushi sauce, Korean spices and natural shallot flavoring.
However, in terms of the texture of the fish, it is reminiscent of defrosted cubes, similar to those of the popular Dom Reserve brand or those of Sushi at Home. Is it enough quality to satisfy me when I want to eat on the go? Yes. However, I mightn’t claim that it replaces the delicious taste of fresh, fatty salmon from the fish store, which melts in your mouth.
In terms of toppings, the edamame was nicely crispy, and I appreciated the cutting of the cucumbers and carrots, making it easier to create perfect bites encompassing all the ingredients. I don’t like having to cut up the elements of a salad or meal bowl before eating it, even though it can make for a more visually interesting presentation. As for the mangoes, they are good, but I would have preferred to have a little more, and in thin slices. I had the impression of tasting a mango salsa rather than pieces of fruit, which I liked a little less.
My only disappointment with this dish was the rice, which seemed a little overcooked for my liking and not sticky enough. However, when you mix it with the other ingredients and the spicy mayonnaise, which is just spicy enough without being too spicy, you can come up with something good. It doesn’t spoil the meal though.
My personal assessment in terms of taste: 8/10, taking into account that it is a dish sold in grocery stores.
Verdict: Final score and value for money
In my opinion, this salmon poke bowl cannot replace the expertise of a sushi restaurant, or even the freshness of a homemade recipe cooked with salmon from the fish store. Nevertheless, it is by far the best grocery store poke bowl I have eaten. The seasoning of the fish, the spicy mayonnaise and the choice of the recipe are, in my opinion, a success.
However, I would tend to buy this bowl to help out when I’m really lazy in cooking on my part, or for on-the-go occasions when I want something fairly healthy. My suggestion would still be to add a personal touch to it to make it excellent. For me, the ideal additions – which are ingredients I always have on hand – are lettuce leaves, avocado and green onions.
While a satisfying prepared meal is hard to come by at a reasonable price, I’m quite pleased with this $21.99 tag for two bowls, or $11 per meal, which ups the mark in my personal review.
I found the portion of proteins and vegetables similar to take-out sushi counters, but it is true that the quantity of rice seems a little lower. I have also read some reviews from customers who found this bowl small, so this should be taken into account if you have a big appetite or are extremely hungry.
Even so, one thing to consider is definitely the lifespan of this product. As it is raw fish, these bowls must be purchased the same day or the day before consumption. Knowing that going to Costco can be quite an adventure given the high traffic, the option of picking up an already ready dinner quickly is a little more difficult. You must therefore be strategic when purchasing to avoid waste.
My personal assessment in terms of value for money: 8,7/10
Please note that inclusive writing is used to write our articles. To learn more on the subject, you can consult the Government of Canada page.
These prices are confirmed at the time of publication, but may change at any time. Taxes and fees may not be included.
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