People are only just realising what HP Sauce stands for and it's so British
People are only just realising what HP Sauce stands for and it's so British
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Whether you prefer a bacon or sausage bap, one thing is certain: a good sauce makes it better. For many, brown sauce is the only condiment to pair it with, and if you’re a fan, you'll be familiar with the iconic HP Sauce. But have you ever wondered what HP actually stands for? The answer has been on the bottle all along. HP Sauce is the most popular brown sauce in the UK, with an estimated 28 million bottles consumed every year. Its rich, tangy flavour comes from a blend of tomatoes, malt vinegar, and molasses, making it the perfect complement to hot and cold savoury dishes. While it’s commonly used as a condiment for classic British breakfasts, bacon sandwiches, and sausages, many people also incorporate it into stews, soups, and marinades to add more flavour.
An interesting fact about HP Sauce is that it’s completely plant-based and suitable for vegans. However, it's unfortunately not gluten-free. This is due to the usage of malt vinegar, which is derived from barley, a common source of gluten. HP Sauce was created by Frederick Gibson Garton, a grocer from Nottingham, in 1899. However, if you assumed that HP stood for his initials, you’re wrong. The name actually stands for Houses of Parliament, as the sauce was rumoured to have been served in the restaurant at Parliament in the early 20th century.
Despite developing what would become one of the UK’s most famous condiments, Garton never got to enjoy its success. Struggling with financial difficulties, he sold the recipe for just £150 to Edwin Samson Moore, the founder of the Midlands Vinegar Company, to settle a debt. Moore then rebranded and marketed the sauce, ultimately turning it into the UK’s number-one brown sauce. Over the years, HP Sauce has become a staple in British households, loved for its distinctive taste and versatility. Its strong connection to British culture and tradition has only grown, making it an essential item in many kitchens.
If you take a closer look at a bottle of HP Sauce, you’ll notice that the label features an illustration of the Houses of Parliament; a clear reference to the sauce’s name and history. Now, the next time you purchase a bottle, you’ll know exactly why it’s called HP Sauce - and that the answer has been right in our faces this entire time!. Serve the food you really want to eat by signing up for our tips and recipes and never be bored by your cooking again.
