English sausages are commonly referred to as bangers. This traditional food has been enjoyed for centuries. People have been making them using different ingredients, but the thought behind it remains the same: minced meat and seasonings stuffed in casings. English sausage is a treasured staple in British cuisine and is often enjoyed for breakfast with eggs and toast or as part of a meal along with vegetables and Yorkshire pudding.

History of Sausages

Sausages have a history that goes back to ^first century AD when the Romans conquered Britain. Their arrival brought with them many culinary items including sausages. They ground meat and mixed it with grains, spices and herbs and stuffed it in animal intestines. It allowed them to preserve meat, enhanced its flavour and taste and made it easy for them to carry it along – they were known for their conquests.

By the time the Romans left Britain in 5 AD, it was the Anglo-Saxons here that developed the art of making sausages. It was quite common among middle-class people as it was quite affordable. They used pork, beef, or lamb meat and added ingredients and seasonings of their choice. Over the centuries, the basic recipe and method of preparation have been almost the same, but modern-day sausages also include things like gourmet sausages that are made from exotic meats, have vegetarian options, synthetic casings, and more.

Types of Sausages

Cumberland Sausages

Originating in the beautiful northwest English county of Cumbria, Cumberland sausages are known for their coiled shape. Cumberland sausages have a robust and aromatic flavour. They are made from coarsely ground pork that is seasoned with herbs and spices such as sage, thyme and black pepper. They are a popular choice for both meals and traditional English breakfasts and they are usually grilled, pan-fried or roasted.

Lincolnshire Sausages

Lincolnshire sausages are from Lincolnshire, East Midlands. They have a tender texture and subtle flavours. They are made from very finely minced pork and seasoned with parsley, sage, and marjoram. They are often enjoyed with mashed potato and gravy.

Traditional Pork Sausages

Traditional pork sausages are a timeless favourite that are commonly had for dinner and breakfast. They have a comforting and familiar flavour because they are made from premium cuts of pork that are coarsely minced and seasoned with a flavourful mixture of herbs and spices. These sausages are popular in British cooking and commonly cooked in casserole—although they are also grilled, pan-fried, etc.

Gloucestershire Sausages

Sausage from Gloucestershire are from the county in southwest England. They are known both for their flavour and texture. The powerful and aromatic profile of Gloucestershire sausages is achieved by a blend of beef and pig, and they are seasoned with herbs like mace, nutmeg, and sage. They are eaten roasted or grilled with classic sides like mashed potatoes and seasonal vegetables.

Oxford Sausages

Named after the prestigious university city of Oxford in central England, Oxford sausages are known for their elegant flavours and refined presentation. These sausages are made from a combination of pork, veal, and breadcrumbs and seasoned with herbs such as sage, thyme, and lemon zest. They are traditionally served grilled or pan-fried, garnished with fresh herbs, and accompanied by tangy mustard or fruity chutney.

Lorne Sausage

These sausages are a specialty of Scotland but are enjoyed throughout the UK. Lorne sausages, also known as square sausages, offer a unique twist on traditional sausage shapes. They are from a mixture of finely minced pork or beef seasoned with spices such as black pepper and nutmeg. Lorne sausages are formed into a square shape and sliced into thick slices before cooking. It is enjoyed grilled or fried and served as part of a hearty breakfast or sandwich.

Top Sausage Brands in the UK

Wall's

Wall's is one of the most famous and established sausage brands in the UK and has been around since 1786. Wall's is well-known for its traditional pork sausages, but it also has a large selection of flavours and inventions. Wall's sausages are made with premium ingredients and traditional recipes.

Richmond

Richmond is pretty well-known for British sausages and has been producing premium quality sausages for more than a century. Richmond, which specializes in pork sausages, provides a wide variety of sausages to suit a variety of palates. British households love Richmond sausages for their affordable and high-quality sausages, which range from traditional breakfast sausages to specialty flavours and Cumberland coils.

Heck

Founded in 2013 by the Keeble family, Heck is also known as one of the leading brands in the UK sausage market. It is renowned for its quality, flavour, and innovation. Offering a wide range of sausages made from locally sourced ingredients, Heck prides itself on creating delicious products that cater to diverse dietary preferences, including gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegetarian options. Focusing on sustainability and ethical sourcing, Heck sausages appeal to conscious consumers looking for tasty and wholesome alternatives.

Debbie & Andrew's

Founded by the husband-and-wife team Debbie and Andrew Keeble in 1999, Debbie & Andrew's is a sausage brand known for its premium quality and artisanal flavours. Using only the finest British meat and natural ingredients, Debbie & Andrew's offers a range of traditional and gourmet sausages, including pork, beef, and lamb varieties.

The Jolly Hog

Founded by three brothers with a passion for good food, The Jolly Hog is a family-run brand dedicated to producing high-quality, ethically sourced sausages that are free from artificial additives and preservatives. With a focus on flavour and sustainability, The Jolly Hog offers a range of premium pork sausages, including classic favourites and innovative varieties such as smoked maple and chipolatas.

Sausage Shed

A small artisanal producer based in Somerset, Sausage Shed prides itself on creating handmade sausages using traditional recipes and locally sourced ingredients. With a focus on quality over quantity, Sausage Shed offers a range of gourmet sausages made from free-range pork and natural casings. From classic bangers to specialty flavours like cider and apple, Sausage Shed sausages are celebrated for their authentic taste and artisanal craftsmanship.