Ever in search of bargains, I always stop by the Clearance section at my local Jewel. Not sure why it was there, but there was a marked-down box of Sri Lankan Curry from Marion's Kitchen. I bought it, and today, I prepared it. I'm happy to report that the words "restaurant quality" printed on the box accurately describe the results. The kit contained packets of whole spices, curry paste, and coconut milk, and I supplied the onion, tomato, and chicken. The curry it produced is wonderful.
Marion, who has a Thai mother and lives in Thailand, produces a range of these kits -- which are, I've now learned, the hottest gourmet goodies in Australia. Given how much Asian food is available in Australia, I figure that's high praise indeed, and makes me want to search out other offerings. Fortunately, Marion's Kitchen kits are now sold in the U.S. -- the website has a map that will show you where to buy it (including Jewel).
Instructions are clear and cheerful, include ideas for multiple variations, and even relate how to control the heat with the spices enclosed. Genuinely yummy results. Won't replace going out for dinner, but a real lifesaver when one needs to stay home and work. I'm sure they're probably all good, but I'm really in love with the Sri Lankan Curry at the moment (still eating it, in fact).
Here's Marion's website:
http://marionskitchen.com/