The Curious Case of Bacon Rolls and Sausage Rolls: A British Conundrum

During our camping trip on the Isle of Skye, we stumbled upon a rather unusual culinary situation that sparked a conversation about British culinary terms. It was a delightful mix of local traditions, regional dialects, and the curious nomenclature of barm buns and rolls. Join us as we explore the intricacies of these terms and the delicious British breakfasts they represent.

Our Ferry Experience

One day, we decided to take a round trip from the Uig ferry terminal to Harris, followed by North Uist and then back to Skye. After a bustling ferry ride, we rolled out of our tent without a morning meal. To our surprise, the ferry offered a tempting deal: 'Bacon Rolls,' 'Sausage Rolls,' and 'Sausage Rolls' with tea for breakfast. Over the years, this has become a traditional deal for early morning journeys, much like the idea of the CalMac yellow curry.

The Debate: Bacon Rolls vs. Sausage Rolls

Upon arriving at the ferry terminal, I ordered 2 bacon butties, a sausage butty, and - in a moment of hesitation - 1 bacon roll. After placing my order, I asked the staff for a 'sausage roll.' The response was met with a soft, Eastern Scottish English accent: 'Aye.' This exchange showcased the unique regional terminology used in the Western Isles, where the term 'barm' or 'barm cake' is synonymous with a roll in many areas.

Understanding the Terms: Rolls and Barm Cakes

A 'roll' in Scotland, when cut in half, buttered, and filled with bacon and perhaps brown sauce, becomes a 'roll on bacon.' Similarly, a roll cut in half and filled with sausage is called a 'roll on sausage.' These names differ from the more traditional 'sausage roll,' which consists of sausage meat enveloped in pastry. The latter, often referred to as a 'sarnie' or 'sausage in a roll,' is a classic British breakfast item.

Culinary Differences and Regional Terms

The difference between a 'roll' and a 'sausage roll' can sometimes be subtle yet significant. In some regions, a bacon or sausage roll could indeed be referred to as a 'barm cake.' However, it's crucial to note that not all parts of the UK use this term, and the region is often marked as 'There Be Dragons' on UK maps – an area where local dialect and culinary terms can vary wildly. Bakers typically use the term 'sausage roll,' which refers to sausage in pastry, but this is not always the case across Britain.

Local Origins and Terminology

When it comes to sausages, the term 'sausage' specifically refers to British sausages, and non-British sausages, like a bratwurst, would be referred to as such. However, British sausages may carry local names based on origin, such as 'Lincolnshire' or 'pork and apple.' Despite these regional differences, British people simply call a roll a roll, regardless of the type of filling or preparation method.

Culinary Exploration in Britain

Exploring the world of British breakfasts, from the traditional 'bacon and eggs' to the more regional 'bacon rolls' and 'sausage rolls,' reveals a rich tapestry of culinary diversity. Whether you're in Skye, the Western Isles, or any other part of the UK, each region has its unique take on these classic breakfast items. Understanding these regional terms can add a delightful layer of cultural insight to any visitor's experience in Britain.

So, the next time you're in Britain and find yourself wondering whether to order a 'bacon roll' or a 'sausage roll,' you'll have a better understanding of the differences and regional nuances involved. Happy adventuring on your culinary journey!