Traditional Sunday roast under threat as diners favour sour cream, mayonnaise and yogurt over gravy, research reveals

Poll shows that Brits are enjoying ketchup, mayonnaise and even yoghurt with a roast

Gone are the days of roast beef smothered in gravy as Brits are nowadays opting for alternative condiments.

According to a new study of 2,000 adults, salad cream, BBQ sauce and sour cream are all among the list of side sauces preferred by diners.

The study was commissioned by McCain Foods, who intend to launch an experimental restaurant experience especially for roast dinner lovers.

Mark Hodge, from McCain, said: “As a family business, we understand that a roast dinner is at the heart of the nation’s taste buds.

“This is why we wanted to launch the #greatroastdebate to uncover and celebrate its diversity and inspire the country to share their unusual combinations.

“From fish and meatballs to ketchup and sour cream, we are clearly a country that loves to experiment.

“However, some things will never change, and what has become clear is that we all still love a roast potato, like McCain Roasts that are made just as you would at home – basted, never battered - for a perfect golden, crispy finish.”

The poll revealed the wonderful ways people upgrade their roasts, with unconventional veg and an array of quirky condiments.

One in ten like ketchup with their roast, with others enjoying hot sauce, tartar sauce and even mango chutney.

It was also revealed the new varieties of veg on the side of a roast, with sweetcorn and kale proving popular choices.

Other alternatives include courgette, sweet potatoes and beetroot.

And roast potatoes are a must, with 85 per cent agreeing they are essential.

The study, conducted via OnePoll.com, found nearly two thirds of Brits couldn’t give up a roast dinner.

Three out of four traditional Brits will treat themselves to a roast dinner on a Sunday but one sixth agree there is no particular day for such a tasty tea.

And eight per cent are spoiling themselves by having an average of at least two roasts a week.

Chicken still reigns supreme as our roast meat choice, followed by beef, pork and lamb.

And three quarters of Brits concluded it is perfectly acceptable to enjoy Yorkshire puddings with any meat.

Three in ten will even indulge in sausages as part of their Sunday roast, with an equal number accompanying their roast with gammon.

And some will even enjoy fish, a fried egg or meatballs.

More than seven in ten also appreciate a Brussels sprout with a roast any time of the year.

The gravy preference of the nation is of a thick consistency with nearly two thirds agreeing all they need is enough for what’s on their plate.

SWNS