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The fabled spice bag looks like it's here to stay.

Now a mainstay of many takeaways across Ireland, the delicacy has been finally recognised on a large scale after bagging an award at a food bash last night.

The dish was named as Ireland's favourite takeaway choice at the Just Eat National Takeaway Awards after a vote.

But just what IS the tasty treat?

What does it contain?

Funnily enough, it's mostly in the name. A spice bag is made of up some combination of chicken, chips and red, green and chili peppers. People are also partial to the odd vegetable too.

Where did it come from?

We're not sure anyone knows for certain. It seems nobody can decide on a name either - it's been variously called a 'spice bag', 'spicy bag', 'hot bag' and more.

We doubt the recipe for 'chips, chicken and few spicy things' is carefully concealed in a hidden container down the back of an oven in Blanchardstown.

The questions are mounting, though.

Why is it so popular?

A user on a boards.ie thread from 2013 sums it up quite nicely.

He says: "More and more seem to be going after the younger market, or people who want to eat on the go, so they are competing with the likes of chippers.

"The chinese nearest me is full of kids getting half portions of things and eating it outside the place."

What's it doing to your body?

Taking calorie counts from weightlossresources.co.uk, a 400g bag of chips will give you in the region of 950kcal.

Combine that with various amounts of chicken, peppers, spices and whatever else is in your bag, you're looking at upwards of 1,200 calories.

Those watching their salt intake would want to watch out as well - though what you're doing in a chipper in that case is beyond us!

Is it just a Dublin thing?

Would ya go away outta that. It's popular everywhere!

But apparently Waterford people are missing out. A moment of silence, please.

Tipperary too.

At least somebody in Wexford is paying attention to social media.

Months later...

It also inspires some crazy emotions in people

Looks tasty.

A spice bag addiction would be a hard one to shake off...

Jaysus.

What's a 'soal'?

This is probably a bit much.

If you like a spice bag, you are going to love this outrageous MUNCH BOX feast.

Do you love a cheeky takeaway? Here's

Did you create the spice bag? Email us at news@irishmirror.ie with proof. Cheers.

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