Sunday 5 January 2014

Is It Sad To Be Excited Over A Sausage Roll

In Newcastle-upon-Tyne several years ago a survey was conducted where people were asked to list what they would most like to see to improve their city. One of the top answers was thay they would like more Greggs. Yes - Greggs bakers shops. The purveyor of the North East's favourite food - pies, pasties and sausage rolls.

Having my awkward heart condition and being the proud owner of three stents, my rehabilitation nurse advised that we shouldn't make a habit that we should eat this sort of food sparingly as it contained the wrong sort of fats. This is nothing against Greggs. They are a great company, kind employers, generous to the community via their charity foundation and even having discount shops in poorer areas. their products are deservedly popular and well made.

But I now confine myself to a couple of sausage rolls a year. Therefore they have to be different - even using that often misused word 'artisan'.

Two excite me greatly.

The first is from Tebay Service Station on the M6 in Cumbria, near Shap Summit. The second is from Crinnions in Lanchester. Why? Three things - top quality pork, light pastry and strong use of herbs. They just melt. Taste the difference - to snatch another conglomerate's strap line. You really can.