I first found out about Henderson's Relish by chance in a branch of Morrison's Supermarket, which is a Northern-based food retailer. I tried it and was quickly converted to be a lover of Henderson's Relish.
For over a century, Henderson’s Relish has been a staple in Sheffield kitchens, a fiercely loved local treasure that has remained unchanged in recipe and unrivalled in loyalty.
Unlike Worcestershire sauce, which it is often (incorrectly) compared to, Henderson’s Northern Relish (more commonly just called Henderson’s or Hendo’s) is a unique, 100% vegetarian and vegan-friendly condiment that packs a deliciously rich umami punch into every drop.
But how did this South Yorkshire favourite become such an iconic part of Northern cuisine? Let’s take a look into the history, flavour, and cult following of Henderson’s Relish.
A Brief History of Henderson’s Relish
The story of Henderson’s began back in 1885, when Henry Henderson started producing his special spiced sauce in Sheffield.
The company remained family-owned for generations, with production continuing in the city ever since. While other sauce brands grew through mass production and nationwide advertising, Henderson’s remained a local secret, known and loved only by those in South Yorkshire.
For decades, it was only available regionally, making it a prized item for expats longing for a taste of home. The recipe has never changed, and despite national recognition in recent years, the brand remains proudly Sheffield through and through.
What Makes Henderson’s Relish Unique?
At first glance, Henderson’s might look like Worcestershire sauce. It's dark, liquid, and rich with savoury spices. However, the key differences set it apart:
No anchovies – Unlike Worcestershire sauce, Henderson’s is completely vegetarian and vegan, making it suitable for everyone.
A different flavour profile – It’s tangier, somewhat sweeter, and lacks the "fishy" depth of Worcestershire sauce, making it more versatile.
But it's more than just a condiment – Hendo’s is not just for splashing on food; it’s used in cooking, added to stews, soups, gravies, and even Bloody Marys for a stunning Sheffield twist.
Henderson’s Relish has a thin but powerful consistency, meaning a little goes a long way. It enhances everything from pies and casseroles to cheese on toast, and for many in Yorkshire, it’s the only sauce that matters.
The Cult Following of Henderson’s
Over the years, Henderson’s Relish has gained a cult-like status, particularly in Sheffield, where it’s as much a part of the city’s identity as the steel industry or Sheffield Wednesday and Sheffield United football clubs.
Celebrity Endorsements – Famous Sheffielders, including Sean Bean, Arctic Monkeys, and Michael Palin, have proudly championed Henderson’s as part of their rich, Yorkshire heritage.
Public Artwork & Branding – Sheffield has multiple murals and public artworks dedicated to Hendo’s, with the classic orange label becoming an iconic symbol.
Limited Edition Releases – Henderson’s has released special edition bottles to commemorate everything from local events to Sheffield’s football derbies.
The sauce’s exclusivity and local pride make it a badge of honour for Yorkshire folk. For Sheffielders, it’s more than just a sauce. It's truly a statement of identity.
How to Use Henderson’s Relish
Never tried Henderson’s? Here are a few classic ways to use it:
On Meat & Veggie Dishes – Add a generous splash to pies, stews, casseroles, and roasted vegetables for extra depth. I also add it to salads, too as it makes a nifty but very different type of dressing.
With Cheese on Toast – A few drops over melted cheese on toast elevate the flavour instantly.
In Soups & Gravy – Stir into homemade soups or homemade gravy for a rich, savoury kick.
On Fish & Chips – Many people in Sheffield prefer it over vinegar! (I go for both!)
In a Bloody Mary – Swap out Worcestershire sauce for Hendo’s to make a unique Sheffield-style Bloody Mary.
Where to Find Henderson’s Relish
While Henderson’s was once a Yorkshire-only secret, it’s now available in supermarkets across the UK, as well as online. If you ever visit Sheffield, though, make sure to pick up a bottle from a local shop. It just tastes better when it’s from the source of the sauce!
Henderson’s Relish is more than just a condiment; it’s a piece of Sheffield’s soul. Its distinct flavour, rich history, and deep-rooted local pride make it one of Britain’s greatest regional food treasures. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or trying it for the first time, one thing is certain: once you start using Hendo’s, there’s no going back.
What do people say about it? Musician Matt Helders of Sheffield's Arctic Monkeys said: "It's like Worcestershire Sauce but one million times better!"
And now you can enjoy HENDO’S which is a punchy and spicy, soya and potato popped snack. Which contains less and salt than crisps.
Have you ever tried Henderson’s Relish? Let us know your favourite way to use it!
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