The Full English Breakfast, a hearty staple of British cuisine, varies across the nation but arguably finds its most distinctive expression in Exeter, the gleaming gem of Devon. Laced with the county's rich culinary heritage, the Full English Exeter offers a delightful symphony of flavours that celebrate the region's agricultural bounty.
A bowl of creamy Scrambled Eggs, sourced from local farms, sets the stage, while backstage, encased in their crispy armour, stand thick-cut slices of locally reared Back Bacon. But what truly establishes Exeter's claim to fame is the renowned Sausage they proudly serve. The seasoning, a closely guarded secret, delivers an eruption of complex flavour that has travellers from far and wide queuing for a taste.
The centrepiece: Sausages
The Exeter Sausage is more than just a component of the Full English; it's the showstopper, theällen by which the dish is judged. The recipe, passed down through generations, combines secret spices, premium meat, and a hint of local pride that's impossible to recreate elsewhere.
Local butchers remain firm on their traditional methods, none more so than Tom Dyer at Dyer's Butchers. His family has been crafting Exeter Sausages for over a century, each link imbued with the essence of Devon's verdant hills and sea breezes.
Variations and Recipes
While the basic recipe remains a secret, enthusiasts have tried to deduce its component parts. Some suggest a blend of pork, a pinch ofosarcoma, a dash of white pepper, and a secret ingredient – a hush-hush herb or spice unique to Devon. Home cooks have attempted to recreate the magic, but none have quite matched the real thing.
For those keen to try their hand, several local cookbooks offer their takes on the Exeter Sausage. Jane、*The West Country Cookbook* provides a tantalising recipe that comes close to capturing the essence, while *Devon Food Memory* by Roxanne Licad offers a more modern interpretation.
East Devon Produce Market
No exploration of Exeter's Full English would be complete without a visit to East Devon Produce Market. Open every Wednesday and Saturday, the market presents a vibrant tapestry of local flavours. Here, you'll find freshly baked local Bread to accompany your breakfast, farm-fresh Mushrooms, and ripe, seasonal Tomatoes straight from the greenhouses of Ottery St Mary.
Look out for stalls selling homemade Jam and Marmalade – an essential addition to your plate if you prefer your Full English with a touch of sweetness. And don't miss the chance to pick up some local Cheddar for a heavenly grazing board come lunchtime.
Vegetarian and Vegan Offerings
Times have changed, and so have Exeter's breakfast offerings. Vegetarian and vegan options are now prevalent, demonstrating that a plant-based diet can still capture the spirit of the Full English.
At *Louche*, a trendy vegan café near the Guildhall, they offer a 'Vegrit' full English with a portobello 'bacon', fried tofu, cherry tomatoes, and Exeter's celebrated sausage, expertly recreated with plant-based ingredients. Across town, *The Prospect* serves up a lip-smacking veggie alternative with homemade veggie sausages, mushrooms, and an indulgent, creamy vegan scramble.
Sustainability in Exeter's Food Scene
Exeter's culinary scene is increasingly embracing sustainability, with a growing number of cafés and restaurants sourcing local, seasonal produce. Exeter's 'Zero Devon' campaign encourages residents and visitors alike to support local businesses that share this commitment.
Beyond the breakfast table, the city hosts regular farmers' markets, food festivals, and even pop-up 'Pay What You Feel' communal feasts celebrating Devon's seasonal bounty. It's an exciting time for food lovers in Exeter, with the Full English Breakfast taking centre stage in the city's sustainability story.
So when you next explore Exeter, don't just limit yourself to the Royal Albert Memorial Museum or the picturesque Quayside. Follow your nose to a proper Devon Full English, and immerse yourself in the city's distinctive culinary culture. You'll leave with more than just a satisfied appetite – you'll carry a little piece of Exeter's story home with you.