Faggots

Faggots are old-fashioned, traditional offal-based meatballs characterized by their large size. They are especially popular in Wales and the Midlands region of England, made from pork offal and cheap cuts of meat that are mixed with spices and fresh herbs, making it an inexpensive, yet extremely nutritious dish. What makes faggots unique is the addition of caul fat (stomach membrane) on the external layer, helping to hold the meat in place. Traditionally, the dish is served with mushy peas, mashed potatoes, and onion gravy. The dish gained popularity during World War II, when meat was scarce, and people found a way to use all of the leftover meat in the preparation of this hearty delicacy. Today, there are numerous varieties of the recipe and faggots are enjoyed throughout the United Kingdom.