A melting point of cultures, the food scene in England is rich, diverse, and creative. Home to London, the 6th most Michelin starred city and one of the foodie capitals of the world, it’s evident England has a lot to offer when it comes to modern cuisine. After taking a look at the Scottish cuisine, we now head South to take a look at some traditional dishes and drinks typical of the English national cuisine.
1. Fish and Chips
The most popular of all British meals, fish and chips is found nationwide throughout pubs, restaurants and specially dedicated shops. The go-to Friday night takeaway for many Brits, battered cod or haddock is served with chips doused in vinegar, mushy peas, and a dollop of tartare sauce.
2. A Sunday Roast
Having a roast with family on a Sunday is a deep-rooted tradition for the English. The roast itself is served with vegetables, roast potatoes and a Yorkshire Pudding topped with some thick gravy. Whether it be roast chicken, lamb or beef, the result is always delicious!
3. Yorkshire Puddings
An essential in any Sunday roast, Yorkshire pudding is not a ‘pudding’ in the sweet sense. Made from a batter of eggs, flour and milk, the pudding is cooked in the oven, resulting in a golden brown, crisp yet fluffy savoury accompaniment to the main meal. Often accompanied by thick gravy, its circular shape is perfect for soaking up the gravy and mopping up any remaining morsels on your plate!
4. Bangers and Mash
Bangers and Mash, also known as sausages and mash, is the ultimate English comfort food. Sausages on a bed of creamy mash potatoes with a thick gravy poured on top. This dish is simple but oh so satisfying!
5. Chicken Tikka Masala
Known to have some of the most authentic Indian dishes outside of India, the Indian influence on British cuisine has been immense. A subtly spiced creamy curry, this dish is now recognised across the country as one of England’s national dishes.
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6. Full English Breakfast
No trip to England would be complete without trying one of their infamous ‘fry-ups’. This calorific breakfast consists of fried eggs, sausages, bacon, mushrooms, baked beans, grilled tomatoes, and a slice of toast. You will need to loosen a couple of notches on your belt for this one!
7. Sticky Toffee Pudding
The sticky toffee pudding is one of the most popular desserts in England. The moist sponge cake is made with treacle and sweet dates and covered with a toffee sauce. Best served hot alongside some cream or ice cream.
8. Afternoon Tea
Afternoon tea is one of the most quintessentially British ways to enjoy an afternoon. Consisting of cakes, pastries, (crustless) finger sandwiches, and scones with jam and clotted cream. Everything is served on a tiered cake stand with a pot of English breakfast tea to wash it all down.
9. British Scones
British scones are slightly sweet and usually accompanied by butter, jam and clotted cream—or you can enjoy them just plain as they come. Best enjoyed alongside a cup of freshly brewed tea, a scone is the perfect afternoon teatime treat!
10. A cup of tea
Britain’s most popular drink, a cup of tea is an essential daily staple in the United Kingdom. The most popular variant is a black tea coined ‘English Breakfast Tea’ and is commonly taken with fresh milk and, for those with a sweet tooth, a teaspoon of sugar or two!
11. Cider
Orchard rich England is the world’s third-largest producer of cider and also drinks the most per capita than any other country in the world! Available from a wide variety of producers, regions and in numerous different flavours you will be able to find an array of ciders in any pub, restaurant or supermarket. The perfect pint to enjoy whilst sitting in the summer sun.
12. Pimm’s
A gin-based liquor, Pimm’s is often mixed with lemonade and chopped up fruit to make a refreshing summer cocktail. England’s answer to an Aperol Spritz, you will find this sweet concoction served at weddings, Wimbledon, or any summer soiree.