Henderson's Relish: Sheffield's Saucy Secret

Posted by: Full on Yorkshire Created Date: Oct 08, 2023

Dive deep into the saucy world of Henderson's Relish, Sheffield's iconic condiment. Discover its rich history, secret recipe, culinary uses, and the immense pride it instills in Sheffielders.

Henderson's Relish: Sheffield's Saucy Secret

Ah, Henderson's Relish. Or, as the locals lovingly call it, 'Hendo's'. If you're from Sheffield, you likely need no introduction to this iconic condiment. But for those who've somehow managed to go through life without this zesty seasoning gracing their taste buds, buckle up, because you're in for a tasty journey.

A Brief Dip into History

Our story begins in 1885 when Henry Henderson concocted this delightful elixir. Little did he know, his creation would evolve to become a staple on many a Sheffield table. Originally brewed at 35 Broad Lane in Sheffield, it’s been produced in the Steel City ever since. That's over a century of seasoning dedication! The secret recipe, passed down through generations, remains a closely guarded treasure, with only a select few privy to its contents.

What's in the Bottle?

While the exact recipe for Hendo's remains shrouded in mystery, what we do know is that it's a vegan blend. That’s right, it's free from any animal derivatives. Made from tamarind, vinegar, and spices, this relish adds a splash of zing to dishes without overpowering them. And no, it's not Worcestershire sauce, so let's not even go there. Hendo’s is in a league of its own.

Cooking with Hendo’s

Henderson’s Relish isn’t just a condiment; it's a culinary companion. Its versatility in the kitchen is the stuff of legend:

Literally, Any Pie: Any self-respecting Sheffield pie isn't complete without a dash (or ten) of Hendo's. It adds that perfect kick to the filling.

Stews & Soups: Add a few splashes to your stew or soup for an extra layer of depth and flavour.

Bloody Mary: Looking for a fiery twist on your cocktail? Add Hendo’s to your Bloody Mary mix, and thank us later.

Vegan Delights: Being a vegan sauce, it’s the perfect addition to vegan and vegetarian recipes, adding that umami kick where it’s often needed.

Sheffield's Saucy Pride

Sheffielders are known for many things: their enduring spirit, their immense pride in their industrial heritage, and of course, their undying love for Hendo’s. It's not just a sauce; it's a symbol of Sheffield. Ask anyone from the city, and they’ll regale you with tales of how Hendo's saved many a dish from mediocrity. It's the city's worst kept secret, and honestly, why would they want to keep it a secret?

A Splash of Humour

Why did the Sheffield chef get kicked out of the spice convention? He wouldn't stop relishing in his success with Hendo's!

In all seriousness, Henderson’s Relish is more than just a condiment. It’s a piece of Sheffield history, a source of city pride, and a testament to the legacy of Henry Henderson. So, the next time you find yourself in a culinary conundrum, reach for that unmistakable orange and black label. A splash of Hendo’s might just be what you need.