When it comes to food, the Lake District has plenty of delicious treats to offer. From the famous Kendal Mint Cake to the beloved Cartmel Sticky Toffee Pudding, there are many specialties that you simply must try.
Kendal Mint Cake
Kendal Mint Cake is a sweet, mint-flavoured confectionery that is famous throughout the world, but it has its roots firmly in the Lake District. The story of how Kendal Mint Cake was created is a fascinating one. Joseph Wiper, a confectioner from Kendal, was attempting to make some boiled sweets when he accidentally boiled the sugar for too long. The result was a hard, crystallised sugar that had a minty flavour. He discovered that it was a tasty treat and started selling it in his shop. The popularity of Kendal Mint Cake really took off when it was used on Sir Ernest Shackleton’s 1914-1917 Imperial Trans-Antarctic Expedition. The cake was used as a source of energy and morale for the men on the expedition, and it was also used to trade with other explorers. Today, Romney’s Kendal Mint Cake is the go-to brand for this famous treat. Romney’s has been the owner of the recipe since 1987, and it continues to be made in the traditional way, using only the finest ingredients.
Cumberland Sausage
Cumberland Sausage is one of the most famous food products to come out of the Lake District. This sausage is named after the historic county of Cumberland, which is now part of Cumbria. It is known for its distinctive taste, which is slightly spicy and seasoned, making it a delicious and flavoursome treat. One of the unique aspects of Cumberland Sausage is its long, coiled presentation. The sausage is traditionally made by hand, and the coiling helps to distinguish it from other sausages. The recipe for Cumberland Sausage has been passed down through generations, and it is now so special that it has gained protected status. This means that only sausages produced in Cumbria can legally be called Cumberland Sausage. You can find Cumberland Sausage in pubs and restaurants throughout the Lake District, and it’s a must-try food for anyone visiting the area. It’s also available in local markets and butcher shops, so you can take some home with you and enjoy it wherever you are.
Cartmel Sticky Toffee Pudding
Cartmel Sticky Toffee Pudding is a dessert that has become famous throughout the UK and beyond. This award-winning pudding is handmade using 100% natural ingredients and is sold from the Cartmel Village Shop, which is considered to be the home of sticky toffee pudding. The pudding has a rich, gooey texture and is served warm with lashings of toffee sauce, making it the perfect comfort food for those with a sweet tooth. The story of Cartmel Sticky Toffee Pudding began over 20 years ago when chef Francis Coulson and his partner, Brian Sack, started experimenting with traditional English puddings. They wanted to create a dessert that was both comforting and delicious, and after much experimentation, they came up with the recipe for Sticky Toffee Pudding. The pudding soon became popular, and it was not long before it was being served in some of the country’s top restaurants. Today, you can buy Cartmel Sticky Toffee Pudding in shops nationwide, including Booths, Waitrose, and Selfridges. You can also order it online, so you can enjoy this delicious dessert wherever you are in the world.
Herdwick Lamb
Herdwick Lamb is a local meat that is a must-try for those who are interested in sampling the culinary delights of the Lake District. This breed of sheep is native to the Lake District fells and is known for being the hardiest breed in England. The name ‘Herdwick’ comes from ‘herd wyck’, which means sheep pasture, and the breed has been around for hundreds of years. Herdwick sheep are particularly well-suited to the harsh climate of the Lake District, and their ability to survive in tough conditions has made them a beloved part of the area’s cultural heritage. They graze on the high fells and are an important part of the local farming industry. The meat from Herdwick lambs is renowned for its sweet and full flavour, which is best enjoyed in late winter to early spring when the lambs are at their prime. The meat is also lean and healthy, making it a popular choice for those who are health-conscious. Herdwick Lamb has a special place in the heart of children’s author Beatrix Potter. Potter was a keen farmer and breeder of Herdwick sheep and even served as the first female president of the Herdwick Sheep Breeders Association. Herdwick sheep and lamb feature prominently in many of her beloved stories, including ‘The Tale of Mrs. Tiggy-Winkle’ and ‘The Tale of Jemima Puddle-Duck’.
In conclusion, the Lake District has a rich and varied food culture, with plenty of local specialties that are not to be missed. From the iconic Kendal Mint Cake to the succulent Herdwick Lamb, there is something to suit every taste. So, next time you’re in the area, make sure to sample some of these delicious treats and experience the taste of the Lake District for yourself!
