In the end, we gave the tasting panel five brands, ranging in size and shape. While most received similar subpar scores, one product shot well ahead of the pack. In fact, it earned a spot in the Taster’s Choice Hall of Fame, an honor reserved for products scoring 80 or higher out of a possible 100 points.
That brand is Elyon ($3.99/7 ounces at Whole Foods), an Israeli kosher product. Tasters thought these had “a great flavor and firmer texture,” and were “less sweet” than other brands. “Extra long” and thin, most enjoyed the “good chew” and the “very vanilla flavor.” Four would buy these and one might.
Marshmallows from Kroger ($2.79/16 ounces at Cala Foods) came in second place, described as “spongy and sweet” with a “lingering flavor.” “A classic manufactured marshmallow,” said one taster. Others thought these were “resilient” with an “artificial vanilla flavor.” Two panelists might buy these marshmallows and three would not.
Third place went to the popular Kraft brand ($3.59/1 pound at Safeway), which panelists called “light and sweet,” with a “firm but fluffy texture.” Most found these “a bit bland” or “boring” but one said it was “a good commercial marshmallow.” One might buy this brand and four would not.
The fourth place spot went to a homemade version from Whole Foods ($6.49/10.5 ounces). “Too sweet,” said tasters, “but really neat shape and some good chew.” One found these “dominated by the flavor of artificial vanilla” and another noted the “gritty exterior.” Two might buy these and three would not.
Finally, Safeway ($2.99/16 ounces) came in fifth, called “very traditional,” but with a “boring flavor.” Some commented on the fact that these were “chewy,” “tender” and “not too sweet” and one called them “OK.” Two panelists might buy these marshmallows and three would not.
Marshmallows rating: Elyon 80, Kroger 49, Kraft 45, Whole Foods 43, Safeway 42
Panelists were Linda Anusasananan, food writer and consultant, San Mateo; John Carroll, cookbook author, San Francisco; Marc Halperin, culinary director, Center for Culinary Development; Shelley Handler, consultant, San Francisco; and Roland Passot, chef-owner, La Folie and five Left Banks. All products are tasted blind; a perfect score would be 100. Prices listed are the lowest found, but products may be available at other stores.
Amanda Gold is a Chronicle staff writer. E-mail her at agold@sfchronicle.com. To look up past Taster’s Choice columns, search sfgate.com/food/tasters/archive.
This article appeared on page E – 2 of the San Francisco Chronicle
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