As Australians prepare to vote, an amusing debate is heating up: should onions go over or under the democracy sausage? Surprisingly, one in three Australians support the idea of placing the onions first, followed by the sausage, according to new research from Australian Onions.
Ahead of Election Day, Melburnians will have a chance to cast their own “tastebud vote” at a free sausage sizzle event, the location of which will be announced soon.
Experts in the field of democracy sausages have weighed in on the great onion debate. Alex Dawson, from DemocracySausage.org, a site that tracks polling booth sausage sizzles, is a self-proclaimed “snag expert” and has made his position clear. He prefers onions underneath the sausage, as they provide a flavorful base and leave room for sauces. Dawson emphasized that the democracy sausage is practically a part of Australia’s “constitution,” as it plays a crucial role in bringing communities together on election day.
Dawson also pointed out that the smell of caramelized onions cooking on the BBQ adds to the experience, making a sausage sizzle without onions “un-Australian.” His website received over 2 million visitors during the 2022 election, and pre-election numbers are already showing similar interest from voters seeking out local sizzles.
Food writer Jane de Graff also weighed in, agreeing that onions are essential for a BBQ. She praised their ability to create layers of flavor and likened the smell of grilling onions to “eau de barbecue.” While acknowledging the fun of the debate, de Graff emphasized that food is a personal expression of taste and that there’s no right or wrong way to enjoy a sausage sizzle.
Despite the ongoing debate, both Dawson and de Graff agree on one thing: the democracy sausage is an iconic part of Australian culture, symbolizing community, connection, and a good meal while casting your vote.
