Dolmio reveals the UK’s ‘heat’ map, pinpointing the country’s biggest spice fanatics

The nation’s love for spice is on the rise, with over a third of Brits wanting to add more punch to their everyday dishes.

In fact, the research commissioned by Dolmio revealed that 32% love fiery flavours so much, they add spice to traditional meals such as spaghetti Bolognese or lasagne.

But not all can handle the heat: Yorkshire folk are Britain’s biggest softies, with just 56% able to tolerate it. Whereas, London is the nation’s spice capital, with 79% partial to grub that truly gets tastebuds tingling.

And while some regions are less prone to the spicy life than others, over 40% (43%) of Brits are ready to dial up their heat tolerance overall.

With the above in mind, and 38% of Brits now eating out less, Dolmio is partnering with Singer, TV Personality and confessed spice lover, Wes Nelson, to bring the nation ‘Brunch with a Punch’: A free culinary experience, to give pepper-hungry Brits their flaming fix.

This comes following the launch of Dolmio’s new ‘Intensify’ pasta sauces, which boast a bold range of new flavours to shake up any mealtime. From Smoked Paprika & Chilli to Creamy Garlic & Black Pepper and Fiery Sun Ripened Tomato & Chilli, there’s something to suit every palette.

Spokesperson Sian Gavin, Senior Marketing Manager at Mars Food said: “The nation’s love for hotter foods is a testament to its appetite for adventure and flavour, and this dining experience will not disappoint. There’s much fun to be had with Dolmio’s Intensify range and we’re excited to inspire people with bold dishes that they can recreate at home – whether that’s brunch or beyond.”

Headlining the event, Singer, TV Personality and confessed Spice Lover, Wes Nelson said: “When it comes to food, I’m all about dishes with heat – extra hot curries, chillies in my spag bol. You name it, I’ll eat it. So, I’m buzzing to be part of a brunch that’s all about the bolder flavours. I look forward to bringing the heat with my set too.”

Kicking off in London on Sunday 22^nd October, ‘Brunch with a Punch’ will be hosted by Wes Nelson (London event only) and guests can expect an ‘extra hot’ lineup of feasting and festivities.

• The boldest of brunch spreads – Think creative twists on brunch classics, including a fiery recreation of TikTok-famous hash brown toast
• Crazy-hot cocktails – Bespoke tipples guaranteed to get tongues tingling. Did someone say Dolmio Bloody Mary?!
• Spicy performances – Wes will be upping the heat with a live performance and tunes from his accompanying DJ, as well as flaming-hot fire dancers
• The fiery finishing touch – Interactive games, goody bags and more

What’s more, guests of the brunch can access exclusive recipes for each punchy dish on the menu and recreate them using Dolmio Intensify at home. In addition to the guaranteed delicious taste, Domio’s Intensify sauces have no artificial colours, flavours or preservatives, with one portion being 1 of your 5 a day^[1]. They are available in 400g jar size for £2.49 at Sainsbury’s. Asda, Tesco, Ocado and Morrison’s stores.

Event dates & timings:

• Sunday 22^nd October – Brunch with a Punch – Barrio, Covent Garden – (3 – 5pm)
• Sunday 29^th October – Brunch with a Punch – Menagerie, Manchester – (12 – 2pm)

With spaces limited, to secure your place at one of the epic, free Brunch with a Punch events, please visit: https://Dolmio-Brunch-with-a-Punch.eventbrite.co.uk

The UK’s top “hot” spots:

1. London (79%)
2. West Midlands (71%)
3. Scotland (70%)
4. Northeast (68%)
5. Southeast (67%)
6. Wales – 66 per cent
7. Southwest – 66 per cent
8. Northwest – 63 per cent
9. East Midlands – 60 per cent
10. East of England – 57 per cent
11. Northern Ireland – 56 per cent
12. Yorkshire and the Humber – 56 per cent