Why sausages are called bangers: the explosively tasty truth!
What To Know
- The name became particularly fitting as British sausages of the time were typically made from pork and had a tendency to explode when cooked, producing a similar cacophony of pops and bangs.
- Some suggest that the term comes from the sound of a sausage being slapped against a pan.
- A less common theory suggests that the term refers to the fact that sausages were often used as a form of currency in the past.
In the realm of culinary delights, the term “bangers” has become synonymous with sausages. But why do these savory cylinders bear such an explosive moniker? The answer lies in a fascinating historical journey that spans centuries and continents.
The British Connection
The term “bangers” is most commonly associated with British cuisine, where it has been used to refer to sausages since the 19th century. However, its origins can be traced back even further to the early 1800s.
During this period, British soldiers serving in India encountered a local sausage known as “bangra.” These sausages were made from goat or mutton and were often cooked over open fires, resulting in loud popping sounds as the casings expanded and burst.
The Sound of Sausage
The soldiers adopted the term “bangra” and brought it back to England, where it evolved into “banger.” The name became particularly fitting as British sausages of the time were typically made from pork and had a tendency to explode when cooked, producing a similar cacophony of pops and bangs.
The Literary Evidence
The use of the term “bangers” to refer to sausages is first documented in literature in the 1840s. In Charles Dickens‘s novel “Martin Chuzzlewit,” a character refers to “a dish of bangers and mash.”
The Cultural Impact
Over time, the term “bangers” became firmly entrenched in British slang and popular culture. It was used in songs, jokes, and even in military jargon. During World War II, British soldiers would sometimes refer to artillery shells as “bangers.”
Modern Usage
Today, the term “bangers” is still widely used in the United Kingdom and other English-speaking countries to refer to sausages. It has also become a slang term for something that is particularly good or impressive. For example, a great party might be described as a “banging party.”
Other Theories
While the British origin of the term “bangers” is the most widely accepted, there are a few other theories about its etymology:
- Some suggest that the term comes from the sound of a sausage being slapped against a pan.
- Others believe it is related to the slang term “bang,” which means to hit or strike.
- A less common theory suggests that the term refers to the fact that sausages were often used as a form of currency in the past.
Wrap-Up: The Enduring Legacy of Bangers
The term “bangers” has become an integral part of the culinary and cultural lexicon. Its origins in the explosive nature of early sausages have given it a unique and enduring charm. Whether you enjoy them for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, there is no denying the appeal of these savory and sometimes explosive delights.
Basics You Wanted To Know
Q: Why do sausages explode when cooked?
A: Sausages explode when cooked due to the expansion of air and water vapor inside the casing. As the sausage heats up, the air and water vapor expand, putting pressure on the casing. If the casing is not strong enough to withstand the pressure, it will burst.
Q: What is the difference between a banger and a sausage?
A: In general, the terms “banger” and “sausage” are used interchangeably. However, in some cases, “banger” may be used to refer specifically to a British pork sausage.
Q: What are some popular ways to cook bangers?
A: Bangers can be cooked in a variety of ways, including:
- Grilling
- Frying
- Baking
- Boiling
