This week, I’ve taken it upon myself to procure samples of the two COVID-19 vaccines available locally. These vaccines, manufactured by pharmaceutical firms Moderna and Johnson & Johnson, have proven themselves a miracle nouveaux at this uncertain point in history. That much is known by everyone who has had to live through the pandemic this last year. I had a different aim in mind rather than vaccination, however: to decide which of the two would taste better.
Pouring the two into novelty red Solo shot glasses, I pondered the significance of my undertaking – what kind of hope the two vaccines gave to the general public. I also pondered how these would go down better, either alone or applied to someone’s meat and veg as seasoning. Counting to three, I pinched my nose and took the first shot.
My initial thoughts on the Moderna vaccine are that it has a decidedly lemony tang that would make it suitable for seasoning fish. This is followed up by the harsh bite of the other active ingredients. The aftertaste amounted to something akin to alcohol which would have likely burned off during the cooking process. If you’re in the market for something topical to replace the usual plastic lemon in your fridge, I believe I’ve found the alternative.
Next came the Johnson & Johnson vaccine. Despite sharing much of the same foundations as the Moderna vaccine, this vaccine immediately hit me with a chili-lime flavor that would find itself at home with a bag of Takis. On its own, I would advise one keep a glass of milk nearby. This vaccine really came into its own, however, when added to a serving of pork or steak carnitas, adding layers to the flavor profile of these dishes between the savory and tangy. The aftertaste of this vaccine was nonexistent, even on its own, if only because of the numbing effect of the chili flavor.
Comparing the two, I think the decision on which one to take would be dependent on your personal tastes. If you want an agreeable, more neutral flavor that has a bit more range, even on its own, stick with Moderna. However, if you can handle the heat and want to explore a bit with your cooking, Johnson & Johnson is a solid choice. If you can find it available in your area, take the vaccine however you like it.
Next week I’ll be running a taste test on a fan favorite, laundry pods – just how much flavor are you missing by picking up generic alternatives at the store? Let’s find out.