Introduction

The Ulster Fry is more than just a breakfast dish; it’s a North of Ireland culinary institution, a beloved staple of Northern Ireland’s gastronomy. Rooted in history and brimming with hearty ingredients, the Ulster Fry represents the essence of the region’s hospitality and tradition. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the history of the Ulster Fry, explore its key ingredients (and those which are completely outlawed), and provide you with an authentic recipe to try at home.

Get ready to be hungry!

History of the Ulster Fry

The origins of the Ulster Fry can be traced back to the rural kitchens of Northern Ireland. Traditionally, it was a farmer's breakfast, designed to provide a substantial meal that could sustain workers through long, arduous days in the fields while being sourced from readily available produce. This hearty breakfast became an integral part of Northern Irish culture, reflecting the region's agricultural heritage.

Key Ingredients of the Ulster Fry

An authentic Ulster Fry is characterised by its use of specific ingredients, each contributing to its unique flavour and texture. Here’s a breakdown of the essential components:

Sausages

Northern Irish sausages are typically pork-based and mildly seasoned. Their juicy and savoury profile forms the backbone of the Ulster Fry. A regularly preferred alternative, and one that is largely unique to the Ulster Fry, is the choice of lightly seasoned beef sausages instead of pork.

Bacon

Back bacon is preferred for its balance of meat and fat, offering a crisp texture and rich taste. The quality of the bacon is crucial, as it adds a smoky depth to the dish. As Northern Ireland is home to an enormous pork industry, good quality bacon is readily accessible and well worth seeking out. Feel free to mix it up with streaky if you prefer a little something different.

Black or White Pudding (and Veggie Roll!)

Black pudding, made from pork blood, fat, and oatmeal, and white pudding, which omits the blood but includes pork fat and oatmeal, are indispensable elements. These puddings provide a distinctive flavour and hearty bite.

Many fry aficionados will say, however, that it’s not a true Ulster Fry unless you have vegetable roll instead of, or in addition to, pudding. This uniquely Northern Irish product is completely inappropriately named, given that it is made almost exclusively from beef. The meat is mixed with vegetables like spring onions or leeks and is lightly seasoned. Sure what else would you expect from this unique part of the world?!

Soda Bread

Soda bread, a traditional Irish bread made with baking soda instead of yeast, is fried in butter until golden. It adds a soft yet slightly crispy texture to the meal. You can toast it if you want a slightly healthier choice, but let's be honest - if you toast it it’s going to get covered in butter anyway!

Potato Bread

You can’t have an Ulster fry without potato bread, or “fadge” as it is often known. Also known as potato farls, this bread is made from mashed potatoes and flour, cut into triangles, and fried. Its tender texture and mild flavour are integral to the fry. Unlike soda, anyone toasting it is liable to being taken outside and having their mistake explained to them physically.

Eggs

Fried eggs are a staple in the Ulster Fry, typically cooked with a runny yolk. The richness of the egg complements the other components beautifully. You can poach or scramble them but only if you live in BT9.

Mushrooms

These vegetables are often included for a fresh contrast to the rich meats and breads. They are typically grilled or fried alongside the other ingredients.

Well I'm getting hungry writing this so I reckon you might be getting hungry reading!

Things that you wouldn’t typically find in an Ulster Fry

Given the provenance of the dish among poorer communities in rural Ulster, you won’t find any bougie ingredients like beans or tomatoes in a proper Ulster Fry. It’s not like we get the weather for ripe tomatoes after all. And, while not always traditional, baked beans are not an uncommon addition in modern Ulster Fries, providing a sweet and tangy flavour.

Finally, let’s be absolutely clear. Toast is absolutely banned from an Ulster Fry. And don’t even get me started on hash browns.

Optional Ulster Fry Extras

It won’t be a surprise to you, dear reader, to hear that potatoes are an optional extra in an Ulster Fry. Don’t think chips like some heathens might; instead think leftover boiled potatoes from last night’s dinner. Slice and fry (in butter of course) or, even better, mash with some chopped spring onions (which are called scallions in Ulster) and fry in a thin cake. Champ patties. Yum.

Recipe for an Authentic Ulster Fry

Get the pan on! Now that we’ve covered the history and ingredients, let’s dive into making your own Ulster Fry. This recipe serves two hungry hallions and can be scaled up as needed.

Ingredients

4 pork or beef sausages
4 slices of back bacon
2 slices of black pudding
2 slices of white pudding
2 slices of vegetable roll
2 large eggs
2 soda farls, cut in half lengthways
4 potato farls
1 cup of button mushrooms, sliced
Butter for frying
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Preparation: Begin by preparing all ingredients. It won’t take long. At most you’ve got to cut the puddings and vegetable roll into appropriate sized slices. You got this.

Frying the Meats: Heat a large frying pan over medium heat and add a little butter or oil. Fry the sausages until browned and cooked through, about 10-12 minutes. Add the bacon and cook until crispy, then the black and white pudding, cooking until each slice is browned and heated through. If you’re feeling all fancy, use the airfryer - it works a treat. Remove the meats from the pan and keep warm.

Frying the Bread: In the same pan, add a bit more butter if needed. And it’s always needed. Fry the soda bread slices and potato farls until golden and crispy on both sides. This should take about 2-3 minutes per side. If you want to get your butter in a different way, toast the soda slices.

Cooking the Vegetables: In a separate pan, heat a small amount of butter or oil and cook the mushrooms until softened and slightly caramelized, about 5 minutes.

Cooking the Eggs: Finally, fry the eggs in the same pan used for the meats, using a bit more butter if necessary. You know what to do. Cook to your preference, but sunny-side up with a runny yolk is traditional.

Assembly: On a large plate, arrange the sausages, bacon, black and white pudding, veggie roll, soda bread, potato farls, mushrooms, and eggs.

Tips for the Perfect Ulster Fry

Quality Ingredients: Use the best quality meats and breads you can find. This makes a significant difference in flavour.
Balance: Ensure a good balance of textures and flavours by not overcooking any single component. The goal is a harmonious plate with crispy, tender, and juicy elements.
Timing: Cook the components in a sequence that allows everything to be hot and ready at the same time. Keep cooked items warm in a low oven if necessary.

Gourmet Ulster Fry ingredients laid on a platter.

Bread Recipes

Nothing slaps like home baked bread, so here are a couple of recipes if you fancy going full send and making them from scratch:

Soda Bread

Potato Bread

Build Your Perfect Ulster Fry Box

Gourmet Ulster Fry

From £38.50

Famous Examples of the Ulster Fry in Popular Culture

Television Shows

Game of Thrones

While Game of Thrones is not directly about Northern Ireland, much of the series was filmed there. The cast and crew often spoke about their love for local cuisine, with the Ulster Fry frequently mentioned as a favourite. Actors like Kit Harington and Emilia Clarke have been known to enjoy a traditional Ulster Fry during their time filming in Belfast, bringing attention to the dish internationally.

The Great British Bake Off

In an episode of The Great British Bake Off, a contestant from Northern Ireland showcased the Ulster Fry in a creative way, incorporating elements of the fry into their baked goods. This brought the traditional breakfast into the spotlight, highlighting its importance in Northern Irish culture.

Movies

The Commitments

Though set in Dublin, The Commitments, a movie about a soul band, features a scene where the characters discuss the best breakfasts in Ireland. The Ulster Fry is mentioned as a standout, showcasing its reputation beyond Northern Ireland.

The Fall

This crime drama, set in Belfast, often features local culture and cuisine. The Ulster Fry appears in several scenes, depicting the everyday life and traditions of the characters. The show’s attention to detail in portraying Northern Irish life includes the beloved breakfast, reinforcing its cultural significance.

Literature

Breakfast on Pluto by Patrick McCabe

This novel, set in a small Irish town, frequently references traditional Irish foods, including the Ulster Fry. The protagonist’s experiences and memories are often tied to the comfort and familiarity of home-cooked meals, with the Ulster Fry symbolising a connection to roots and heritage.

Eureka Street by Robert McLiam Wilson

In this novel set in Belfast, the Ulster Fry is described in vivid detail, capturing the essence of Northern Irish cuisine. The author uses the meal to paint a picture of everyday life in Belfast, making it an integral part of the narrative and the cultural backdrop.

Music

Van Morrison

Northern Irish singer-songwriter Van Morrison has referenced traditional foods, including the Ulster Fry, in his music and interviews. His song "Cleaning Windows" nostalgically reflects on his youth and the simple pleasures of life, including hearty breakfasts that likely included elements of the Ulster Fry.

The Saw Doctors

While not from Northern Ireland, this Irish rock band has celebrated various aspects of Irish culture in their music. In interviews and live performances, they’ve expressed their appreciation for traditional Irish breakfasts, including the Ulster Fry, bringing it into the consciousness of their fans.

Celebrity Chefs

Paul Rankin

Paul Rankin, one of Northern Ireland’s most famous chefs, has often featured the Ulster Fry in his television appearances and cookbooks. As a proponent of Northern Irish cuisine, he has introduced the Ulster Fry to a broader audience, demonstrating how traditional foods can be enjoyed and adapted in modern cooking.

Nigella Lawson

Though not Northern Irish, Nigella Lawson has expressed her fondness for the Ulster Fry in her cooking shows and books. Her appreciation for hearty, comforting meals has led her to include soda bread recipes and versions of the fry in her discussions about traditional breakfasts.

Best Places to Get an Ulster Fry in Belfast, London, and New York

Belfast

Harlem Café

Located at 34 Bedford Street, Harlem Café is known for its eclectic décor and delicious Ulster Fry, which includes smoked bacon, pork sausage, free-range eggs, Clonakilty black pudding, potato bread, pancakes, mushrooms, and tomatoes.

Maggie Mays

With multiple locations including Botanic Avenue and Stranmillis Road, Maggie Mays offers generous portions of Ulster Fry, featuring all the traditional components and ensuring a hearty start to your day.

Bright’s Restaurant

Situated at 23-25 High Street, Bright’s Restaurant is a local favorite for its traditional Ulster Fry. This spot is highly recommended for its authentic flavors and hearty servings.

London

Finding an Ulster Fry in London can be a bit more challenging, but here are some places that offer this Northern Irish specialty:

Philomena’s Bar & Café

Philomena's Cafe in London, as seen from the front.

Located on Great Queen Street, Philomena’s serves an Ulster Fry that includes all the requisite components, making it a favorite spot for those craving a traditional Northern Irish breakfast.

Regency Café

Regency Cafe in London, located on Regency Street as seen from the front.

Found at 17-19 Regency Street, this iconic London café offers a variety of traditional breakfasts, including an option that closely resembles the Ulster Fry with its hearty servings and authentic ingredients.

New York

While it’s even more rare to find an Ulster Fry in New York, a few places have brought this beloved dish to the city:

Northern Ireland’s Food and Drink Events

Occasionally, food and drink festivals in New York that celebrate Northern Irish culture will feature an Ulster Fry. Checking local event listings for these special occasions can be a good way to find an authentic Ulster Fry experience in the city.

Irish Pubs with Traditional Menus

Some Irish pubs may offer an Ulster Fry or similar dishes on special occasions or upon request. It's best to call ahead and check if they can prepare this Northern Irish breakfast.

Enjoying an Ulster Fry is a delightful way to experience Northern Irish culture, whether you're in Belfast, London, or New York. These recommended spots provide authentic and delicious renditions of this traditional meal.

But nothing beats making your own and seeing the smiles on your friends and family’s faces!

The Ulster Fry is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of Northern Irish heritage and a testament to the region’s rich culinary traditions. It’s also probably a significant contributor to stress on the NHS with cardiac related issues, but what can you do?

By understanding its history, appreciating its ingredients, and following this authentic recipe, you can bring a piece of Northern Ireland into your kitchen. So, gather your ingredients, heat up the stove, and enjoy the delicious journey of creating and savouring an Ulster Fry.