About Patum Peperium
Patum Peperium, universally known as The Gentleman's Relish, is one of Britain's most distinguished heritage food products, created in 1828 by John Osborn, an expatriate living in Paris. The name "Patum Peperium" is mock-Latin meaning "peppered paste," though devotees consider it more of a luxurious anchovy butter than a simple paste. The original recipe earned prestigious Citation Favorable awards at the Paris Food Shows of 1849 and 1855, establishing its reputation among discerning Victorian gentlemen. The secret blend contains Mediterranean salted anchovies (minimum 60%), butter, herbs, and mysterious spices that create an intensely savoury, umami-rich spread beloved by generations of British gourmands. To this day, the complete recipe remains one of Britain's most closely guarded culinary secrets—known to only one employee at Elsenham Quality Foods in Elsenham, Essex, the licensed manufacturer. This knowledge is passed down through generations like a sacred trust, ensuring the exact flavour profile created by Osborn nearly 200 years ago remains unchanged. Gentleman's Relish has featured in numerous James Bond novels and spy fiction, cementing its association with refined British masculinity. Traditionally served very thinly spread on hot buttered white toast, it also enriches scrambled eggs, cottage pies, fish cakes, and makes an essential component of Scotch Woodcock. At Grocefully, compare prices on Patum Peperium products including The Gentleman's Relish anchovy paste and Poachers Relish across UK supermarkets. Experience nearly two centuries of British culinary heritage with this quintessentially British delicacy.