Image by Davide Cantelli

HP Sauce

HP Sauce is a condiment that has a storied history, with some claiming that it was originally invented in the 1800s as a way to make food tastier for British soldiers before being sold to the public. While it has remained popular in England over the centuries, it has recently gained notoriety in other parts of the world due to its savory, tangy, and umami flavor profile.

HP Sauce


The main ingredient behind HP Sauce’s flavor is tomato puree, giving it a sweet and savory taste that pairs well with a variety of dishes. Additionally, HP Sauce contains a range spices, including malt vinegar, molasses, dates, tamarind extract, and spirit vinegar, making it a truly unique and flavorful sauce that can be used in a multitude of ways.

One of the most popular ways to use HP Sauce is on French fries, adding an extra layer of flavor to the already delicious dish. It can also be used in certain types of marinades to bring out the best in meats and poultry. Additionally, HP Sauce is often used to top hamburgers, hot dogs, and even fish and chips, making it a truly versatile condiment.

In addition to its culinary uses, HP Sauce also has a reputation for being a unifying force among people from different countries and cultures. It has become an important part of many British-influenced cuisine, including American Southern BBQ and Caribbean cuisine, helping to bridge the gap between these disparate cultures and customs.

All in all, HP Sauce is an iconic and beloved condiment that has stood the test of time with its distinctive flavor and versatility. Whether you’re looking to spice up dinner, bring a little bit of Britain to your plate, or just enjoy a classic condiment, HP Sauce is a must-have for any pantry.

The origin of HP Sauce

When it comes to iconic condiments, few are as beloved and enduring as HP Sauce. From its ubiquity across British fish and chip shops to its presence in both modern and classic British recipes, HP Sauce has been around for over a century and counting. But what is the origin of HP Sauce? To answer this question, it's necessary to travel back to the late 1800s when an ambitious Midlands salesman had an as yet unknown condiment recipe he wanted to share with the world.

The man was one Edwin Samson Moore, who, unbeknownst to him, was about to create one of Britain's most beloved sauces. Moore had developed a unique mix of blended tomato, malt vinegar, tamarind, dates, spices and other secret ingredients which he believed provided the perfect balance of taste, texture and aroma. Having established a small business called The Midlands Vinegar Company, Moore made it his mission to distribute this novel condiment to the inhabitants of England.

At first, the condiment was sold under different names in different parts of the country, such as “Moor’s Original Sauce”, “Moore’s sauce” and “HP sauce”. Gradually, “HP” became a universal term for the condiment, and Moore applied to trademark the name in 1895. The letters “HP” were derived from the words “Houses of Parliament”, referring to the fact that the sauce had become popular among members of parliament, supposedly after being served in the restaurant of the House of Commons.

By the early 1900s, HP Sauce had become a firm favourite. Its popularity was further boosted when it was included in ration packs during World War I. Today, the sauce is one of the biggest selling brands in Britain and served in restaurants, cafes and households all over the country.

HP Sauce – as we know it today – is not the same recipe that Moore originally concocted. Over the years, the recipe has changed slightly, but the unmistakeable flavour remains. The original recipe may have been lost to time, but the legacy of Edwin Samson Moore will forever remain in British culinary history, thanks to his innovative condiment.

FAQs about HP Sauce

Is HP Sauce like A1?

No, HP Sauce and A1 are two different sauces. HP Sauce is a tomato and malt vinegar-based condiment, while A1 is primarily a steak sauce consisting of vegetables, spices and Worcestershire sauce.


Is HP Sauce like Worcestershire sauce?

Yes, HP Sauce is very similar to Worcestershire sauce. It is made with a similar blend of ingredients and has a similar consistency, but HP Sauce has a slightly spicier flavor than Worcestershire sauce.


What does HP stand for sauce?

HP sauce is a brand of brown sauce originally produced by HP Foods in the United Kingdom, now produced by the H. J. Heinz Company in the Netherlands. The abbreviation HP stands for "Houses of Parliament".


What is HP Sauce flavour?

HP Sauce is a tomato-based condiment with a sweet, tangy flavour. It is made with malt vinegar, dates, tamarind, and other spices.


Types of HP Sauce

HP Sauce is an iconic British condiment that has been around for more than a century. It is the perfect accompaniment to any savory dish and can be found in homes and restaurants across the nation. There are several varieties of HP Sauce available, each with its own distinct flavor profile. Here's a breakdown of some of the most popular forms of this popular sauce.

The classic original version of HP Sauce has a full bodied, savory flavor with notes of tomato, malt, and vinegar. This version goes well on everything from a traditional English breakfast to a burger or steak. It is a universally popular condiment, with a deep red color and familiar smell.

For those looking for something a bit more unique, there is HP Brown Sauce. This variety of HP Sauce has a slightly spicier flavor, with a subtle smokiness that adds depth. It pairs well with rich dishes like pork chops or fried onions.

Those who prefer sweet flavors will appreciate HP Caramelized Onion Sauce. This condiment has a slight sweetness and delicate tanginess that works perfectly with barbecued meats, burgers, and sandwiches. It has a golden brown hue that gives it its distinct flavor.

HP BBQ Sauce is another go-to option. It has a smooth, smoky flavor that is ideal for marinating or slathering onto ribs and chicken. Its thick consistency makes it perfect for brushing onto burgers and other grilled meats for that extra boost of sweetness.

Finally, HP Hot & Spicy Sauce is a must for those who enjoy bold flavors. It combines the classic HP Sauce base with a blend of chili peppers and ginger to create a balanced, yet zesty flavor. It is perfect for adding a kick to anything from hot dogs to tacos.

No matter your taste preferences, HP Sauce has something for everyone. From the classic original flavor to uniquely bold variations, this beloved British condiment offers a multitude of flavors and textures to explore. So what are you waiting for? Try some today!