Sausage Seasoning With Veg - 5Kg Pail

A simple sausage seasoning mix flavoured with onion, used to make the traditional Northern Irish dish - 'Vegetable Roll'.

The term "Vegetable Roll" can be misleading to those not from Northern Ireland, as it primarily consists of meat! More accurately, it combines sausage meat with vegetables and is typically served in slices, either fried or grilled. It's a staple component of the Ulster Fry, the beloved traditional breakfast of Northern Ireland.

The "Vegetable Roll" from Northern Ireland is a unique and somewhat paradoxical dish, intriguingly named given that it contains a substantial amount of meat. This regional specialty blends sausage meat with a mix of vegetables, typically including carrots, onions, and leeks. Despite its name, the meat content distinctly dominates, creating a rich and flavorful experience that confuses those expecting a vegetarian dish.

The preparation of Vegetable Roll involves mincing or finely chopping the vegetables and mixing them thoroughly with the sausage meat, which is usually pork-based. This mixture is then formed into a log or roll, similar in appearance to a large sausage. It's not uncommon for the roll to be wrapped in caul fat, which helps to keep the shape and retain moisture during cooking.

In terms of serving, the Vegetable Roll is typically sliced into rounds and fried or grilled until golden brown and cooked through. These slices are often featured as part of an Ulster Fry, a hearty, traditional Northern Irish breakfast that includes bacon, eggs, tomatoes, black pudding, soda bread, and potato farls. The roll adds a savoury and slightly spicy component to the meal, complemented by the textures and flavours of the fried or grilled vegetables within.

The origins of Vegetable Roll are rooted in the economical use of ingredients, combining available vegetables with meat to extend and enhance the sausage filling. This culinary creation is not only a beloved breakfast item but also a testament to Northern Irish ingenuity in the kitchen, offering a flavourful and satisfying start to the day. It's a staple that highlights local preferences for hearty, comforting meals and showcases the blend of simplicity and richness in Northern Ireland's culinary traditions.