The Hash Star

A Taste of England via Heinz

Product: Heinz Potato & Leek Soup

Specs: Canned soup produced and exported by Heinz in London. The pottage contains diced potatoes, pureed leeks, onions, and whipping cream. Each can is 14.6 ounces.

Preparation summary: Heat and serve.

High points: Compared to most American canned soups, the salt factor is about a quarter less with only 500 milligrams of sodium per 7-ounce serving. Every spoonful yields lots of tender, diced potatoes combined with a faintly pleasant essence of leeks and onions. The product is free of preservatives and artificial colors.

Low points: Potato-leek soup was a signature favorite of Julia Child, who doctored hers up with heavy cream, crème fraiche, lemon and chives. This isn’t as luxurious. Nor does it carry the depth of flavor since the citrus is missing—not to mention a few leeks. They’re present, but you yearn for more.

Retail price range: $2.49 to $4.30

Availability: Cost Plus World Market, BritishCornerShop.co.uk, and eBay.com.