Sponsored: With regional nuances in flavours, processes and techniques, the range of food and drink produced in Wales is diverse, to the extent that it has captured the imaginations of internationally renowned chefs who seek out Welsh products to serve in their restaurants across the globe
When was the last time you tasted the freshest, purest water; the creamiest, most decadent cheese; or the most succulent, delicious meat? Could it be Welsh food and drink that is on the tip of your tongue? As Wales prepares to celebrate St David’s Day on the 1st of March, naturally, the focus is on food and drink. Yet while we do enjoy savouring a traditional Welsh cake or two or a scrumptious slice of bara brith spread with salted Welsh butter, our dynamic and innovative approach to food and drink has come a long way over the centuries.
The abundance of natural resources and outstanding landscapes, combined with a focus on developing new technologies and innovation in food production, creates a place where the traditional is re-imagined by a new generation, whilst staying true to quality and provenance.
From responsible farming and fishing practices to B-Corp accreditation, eco-friendly packaging processes and a fair work ethos – these are just some of the elements that define the industry, resulting in one of the most environmentally and socially responsible food and drink supply chains in the world.
Naturally extraordinary
While rugged coastlines, flowing rivers, proud mountains and thick green grass give Wales its mighty aesthetic and plentiful yield, it is also rich with heritage and culture which underpins a diverse food and drink industry. Wales will never be the world’s biggest food producer with mile-wide wheat fields and palm oil plantations, however, that is fine by us because business is booming and we are reaping the rewards.
Internationally recognised accreditation such as Geographical Indication (GI) status and an ever-evolving food and drink sector that continues to innovate and create award-winning produce is Wales’ speciality. By the end of 2023, 20 Welsh food and drink products were on the Welsh GI ‘A-list’, from Anglesey Sea Salt, Traditional Welsh Caerphilly Cheese to PGI Welsh Lamb, Laverbread, Leeks, and more. Also, 195 food and drink products from Wales won a prestigious Great Taste award from the world’s largest and most trusted food and drink accreditation scheme.
With a deep connection to its landscape, people, culture, and a suite of international awards and accreditations, Welsh food and drink is something to savour.
Grown in Wales. Enjoyed worldwide
Of course, good food begins with good ingredients, and the experience and dedication of Welsh farmers, growers and fishers are a testament to that. However, it takes people with imagination, skill and courage to do something amazing with all that raw potential.
With many of these tasty Welsh ingredients available in the Middle East, why not experience it for yourself and see why we get justifiably excited about our good, honest produce. Try a bowl of heart-warming cawl (broth) made with succulent Welsh Lamb, root vegetables and our national emblem the leek, served with a chunk of Welsh cheese. Our award-winning beverages are worth a slurp/sip too.
As St David’s Day is a leek’s throw away, here are some tasty Welsh treats for you to try.
Magnificent meat and splendid seafood
Welsh farmers, recognised for the quality of their product, have been using traditional methods for years, working with what nature has given them – grass, rainwater and a whole lot of pride. With high standards of animal husbandry and pastureland management, family-run farms have helped preserve the unique landscape, with Welsh Lamb gaining coveted Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) status from the European Commission in 2003.
Welsh Lamb from Rhug Estate, Pilgrims and Dunbia is available in the Middle East, as are Edwards of Conwy sausages and burgers.
Our coastline also offers an abundance of the finest seafood including plump mussels and juicy oysters. The Lobster Pot Anglesey, harvests succulent lobster and delicate, sweet crab from the surrounding deep blue sea.
Dairy delights
Wales is well-known for its cheese making due to the lush green grass our cows graze and our skilful farmer-producers. Wales’ cheeseboard is bountiful; from our sole native cheese, Traditional Welsh Caerphilly which, incidentally, also has Geographical Indication status, to our smooth, brie-like cheeses. Dragon Cheese, Snowdonia Cheese Company, Caws Cenarth and Calon Wen cheeses are available in the Middle East.
Other award-winning dairy products that are equally delicious and available in the Middle East include yogurts from Rachel’s Organic and Llaeth y Llan, Daioni organic milk, Calon Wen Welsh butter and Frank’s ice cream.
Sweet treats and blissful bakes
While Welsh cakes are traditionally eaten on St David’s Day, they are available throughout the year. They are particularly delicious warm, straight off the bake stone/griddle, and their flavourings can vary from traditional to the more innovative.
You can buy The Village Bakery Welsh cakes, as well as its melt in the mouth crumpets, in the Middle East. If you’re looking for something sweet to drizzle on your crumpet or bara brith, Hilltop Honey is liquid gold. For those looking for wheat and gluten free products, Lovemore supply biscuits, cakes and puddings.
For a savoury snack alternative, try Cradoc’s Savoury Biscuits crackers with some delicious Welsh cheese.
For more information on Welsh food and drink, visit website.