American Actor Ben Schwartz Tastes Iconic Greggs Sausage Roll

An American actor’s first encounter with a traditional British snack has sparked conversation online. Ben Schwartz, known for his role as Jean-Ralphio in the American comedy series Parks and Recreation, recently sampled a sausage roll from Greggs, a popular high-street bakery in the United Kingdom, and shared his experience on YouTube.

Schwartz joined food YouTuber Olly Kendal for a tasting session that highlights the appeal of the iconic pastry. Greggs sells approximately one million sausage rolls daily, priced at about £1.30. As Schwartz took his first bite, he expressed surprise at the texture of the sausage, stating, “The sausage is way softer than you’d think it’s gonna be. It doesn’t really have a thickness or a bite.”

Kendal chimed in, comparing the sausage to “a meaty marshmallow.” This remark reflects a notable characteristic of British sausage rolls: unlike the coarser sausages found in many other cultures, the filling is typically soft and uniform. This design allows the meat to remain tender after baking, resulting in a lighter, more delicate texture that clearly caught Schwartz off guard.

Reactions from Viewers

The video has since attracted numerous comments from viewers, many sharing their own experiences with the beloved snack. One user recalled their time studying in the UK, stating, “I studied in the UK for four years, never really liked the sausage rolls that much. On my very last day there after graduation, I went to Greggs like at 5 am and was like, ‘Ah what the hell, I’ll give this another try.’ And holy moly was it good, I still think about it sometimes.”

Another viewer shared a similar sentiment, mentioning their husband’s newfound love for the sausage rolls during their visit to the UK. “Every time he saw a Greggs, he just had to go get one,” they wrote.

The video has also struck a chord with American viewers. One comment expressed a sense of longing: “As an American, I feel left out because I’ll probably never get to try a genuine Greggs sausage roll. They look amazing.”

Schwartz’s candid feedback and the subsequent discussions highlight the cultural differences in food preferences and the global appeal of British cuisine. As the conversation continues, it is clear that the sausage roll remains a cherished snack for many, both within the UK and beyond.