There is more than enough Food and Drink opportunities in North Wales. From the humble sausage to the noble cake, Welsh cuisine is always best tasted in Wales. When you’re visiting the North, don’t miss out on trying these must-eat food stuffs!
1) Glamorgan Sausage
A lot of people don’t associate the Welsh with the amazing vegetarian food and drink lifestyle, however the humble Glamorgan Sausage (the Welsh Council attempted to have the term ratified by the EU, although that might not be such an issue now) is the country’s most popular export. This unique delicacy is comprised primarily of cheese, the national favourite of Caerphilly is usually the first choice, as well as leeks, spring onions and breadcrumbs. Rising to popularity throughout Great Britain during World War II, the hungry masses of wartime England and Wales wolfed thousands of them down with a side of potatoes and tomato chutney.
2) Leek Soup
Comprised of the national vegetable and cooked with potatoes in a herby broth, this is yet another Welsh classic that has wormed its way into the hearts of the English. With a crack of black pepper, this warming meal is an absolute must-eat whilst in the North Wales area. There’s simply nothing better after a bracing walk along the Welsh coast line or through the Clwydian Range, than a steaming bowl of Leek Soup – ideally served with a fresh white roll. Although there are similar recipes dating further back in history in French and Romanian sub-cultures, its best enjoyed in Wales, where the leek rules supreme!
3) Welsh Rarebit
Although the historical source of this recipe is often refuted, the cultural impact of this teatime classic can not be understated. Known to the English as cheese on toast; some recipes call for the use of spices, Worcestershire sauce or even the creation of a bechamel sauce. The origin of the name is also somewhat of a mystery. It is known that common folk were often banned from hunting rabbits, so the most common theory is that the ‘rarebit’ name is used by the English as a slur against the Welsh. The last laugh probably lies with the Welsh, who are no doubt pleased that their staple has become almost universally adopted.
4) Welsh Cake
A little more obscure than the proliferate Rarebit, the Welsh Cake is the country’s answer to the scone by way of the pancake. A strange beast, its best sampled in one of the many tearooms placed around the North East coast. A lightly spiced dough, mixed with currants and raisins, can either be cooked on a bake stone or on a griddle. The consistency can vary depending on the cooking method. At its crispest it can resemble a fragrant shortbread, when baked its resembles more of a cake like texture. Served with sugar or butter, either way you cook it the results will never be good for you; but they are always delicious.
5) Lamb Biryani from Abul’s Spice, Corwen
Any of the above food stuffs can be bought from decent to good quality, pretty much anywhere across North Wales. However, one of the finest foods in the region can only be purchased in one restaurant, in the town of Corwen. Abul’s food is simply the best curry in Wales, the place itself won the official title of Welsh Curry House of the Year 2015 and it deserves it. The décor is understated and the waiting staff pleasantly helpful. With a broad menu to suit all tastes, and pitch perfect serving standards, this is one restaurant that you cannot miss whilst in North Wales.