From Nambarrie teabags to being able to ask for a poke without getting arrested, here are 10 things we would miss if we left NI!
Anyone for a wee poke?(Image: Getty Images)
There’s something about Northern Ireland that just sticks with you. It might be the people, the food, the nonsense, or the fact that you can’t walk into a shop without bumping into someone who knows your entire family tree. You might move away for uni, work, or just for a change of scenery, but give it a week and you’ll be dreaming about jambons and wondering why nobody where you are says “dead on.”
It’s only when you leave that you realise just how many wee things make Northern Ireland feel like home. Things you never gave a second thought to at the time.
So wherever you are in the world, here are some things you’ll definitely miss about the motherland
The hot food deli in your local shop
Where else can you get a jambon, a sausage bap, and a carton of wedges covered in curry? It isn’t until you leave NI that you realise how much you appreciated these wee gems (especially when hungover!)
Fifteens
The undisputed king of traybakes. Outside of Northern Ireland, they would look at you like you had two heads if you asked for a fifteen. These wee yokes are delicious, though!
An Ulster Fry done right
We’re talking soda farl, potato bread, bacon, sausage, and a fried egg. If there’s no soda farl, it’s not a fry. End of!
Being able to ask for a poke without getting done for harassment
In Northern Ireland, a poke is ice cream, and you can ask for one without needing HR involved.
“Two pokes and a flake” is entirely wholesome here and shouldn’t land you with a court summons.
Tayto Cheese and Onion
From Tandragee Castle, no less. That yellow packet is a sacred relic. Try finding it in England, you’ll end up with Walkers and shame.
Saying “dead on” and it means 57 different things
It truly is a Swiss Army knife of a phrase. “Dead on” can mean fine, not fine, definitely raging, possibly sarcastic, or just the end of a conversation.
Chippies that sell more than just fish and chips
Chips, gravy, curry, battered sausages, pasties, burgers, kebabs, and pizzas. Try finding a fish and chip shop elsewhere that sells a range like this!
Trips to Barry’s (Sorry, Curry’s)
We’ll say it’s called Curry’s now, but in our hearts, it’s still Barry’s. It always will be.
Being able to buy decent milk and butter
None of this watery nonsense or overpriced, organic, unsalted despair. Our local dairy products are the best.
Nambarrie and Punjana Tea
If you use anything other than these two tea brands, we have serious questions! Don’t even think about coming near me with a cup of PG Tips or Tetley!
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