Perhaps it would be your first homestay or language exchange in the UK, or maybe you’re returning to sample some British delights once more. Either way, enjoying all that the country’s world famous food and drink scene has to offer is a must.
From North to South, Britain provides a culinary who’s who of great produce, delicious dishes and delectable delicacies. And eating locally helps you learn so much more about the culture of the language you are learning.
Don’t be afraid to ask questions about the cuisine either. This is a great way of using restaurant and cafe conversations to advance your language skills beyond the usual eating out interactions.
Here’s what should be on your British classics foodie hit list for your upcoming trip!
Toad in the Hole
This great British dish is a family favourite and one that should be appreciated by visitors too. Toad in the hole is simply sausages in a Yorkshire pudding batter. It’s generally served with gravy and mash, making it the ultimate comfort food.
Homemade Scones
Whichever way you apply your jam and cream, there’s nothing better than freshly baked scones. You can enjoy a warm scone or two by celebrating another great British institution – afternoon tea.
A delightful mixture of freshly brewed teas, bite-size cakes, finger sandwiches and homemade scones, afternoon tea isn’t just a quick bite to eat, it’s an experience. The UK is home to the best afternoon teas on the planet. This decadent affair is a great opportunity to enjoy a quintessential British tradition.
Steak and Ale Pie
British comfort food doesn’t get much better than a hearty steak and ale pie. Perfect for winter days, this good old British grub doesn’t disappoint. The beef is cooked until tender in herbs and a rich ale sauce before being topped with puff pastry.
Eccles Cakes
Originating from Greater Manchester in the North of England, Eccles cakes are sweet treats that are now popular throughout the UK. These small but perfectly formed round pastries are packed with currants and topped with demerara sugar.
This heavenly handmade product is steeped in history and was even banned in the 17th century as BBC Travel explains:
“During the strict Puritan years of the 1600s, that connection between Eccles cakes and religious revelry got the cake into trouble. Although legend has it that Oliver Cromwell himself banned the cakes, the truth is a little more nuanced. Puritan reformers abolished the celebration of saints’ days, and then, in 1650, banned doing much of anything, including dancing, on the Lord’s day of Sunday.”
Scotch Eggs
A boiled egg wrapped in sausage meat, covered in breadcrumbs and then deep fried may not sound the most appetising, but it’s a great pick-me-up after a long day’s sightseeing.
Traditionally served with salad and pickles, Scotch eggs are now a ‘grab it and go’ snack. Scotch eggs are served cold or can be eaten fresh and warm with a runny yolk if enjoyed in a restaurant.
Whilst its name suggests Scottish origins, the Scotch egg actually hails from Yorkshire with the original recipe created in the late 19th century. The first Scotch eggs didn’t contain sausage meat, but were instead covered with a creamy fish paste.
Sunday Roast
One of the many cultural experiences that has to be enjoyed in the UK is eating a Sunday roast at the local pub. Typically served on Sundays, the roast is a mainstay throughout the country. As well as being a pretty delicious meal, it’s a time to gather for a feast with those closest to you.
The Sunday roast consists of roasted meat (which can be beef, lamb, chicken, turkey or gammon) accompanied by all the trimmings, including roast potatoes, Yorkshire puddings, stuffing, bread sauce, mint sauce, vegetables, and gravy.
Shepherd’s Pie
Another great comfort food to keep out the cold on a wintry night, Shepherd’s pie is a dish of beautifully seasoned lamb mince and onion topped with mashed potato and then baked.
Not to be confused with cottage pie, which uses beef instead of lamb or mutton, Shepherd’s pie has been a household favourite for as long as we can remember. In fact, its origins date back to the late 1700s.
Cornish Pasty
The Cornish pasty is known and loved throughout the UK. The staple was originally favoured by Cornish tin miners who could enjoy a hearty lunch without coming back up to the surface.
The traditional recipe uses beef, cubed potatoes and vegetables, and melt in your mouth shortcrust pastry to ensure that unmistakable taste.
The Cornish pasty is now a protected food item, with the ingredients, preparation process and crimping technique all governed by strict rules.
Chicken Tikka Masala
Thought to have been created in Glasgow, chicken tikka masala is the perfect example of just how diverse the British community is. Enjoy marinated chicken breast pieces in a spicy onion and red pepper tikka sauce, you won’t regret it.
Fish and Chips
Britain is home to approximately 10,500 fish and chip shops. The nation’s love for fish and chips means that the average adult and child eats six servings from their local chippy every year. Sample this traditional British combination for yourself – don’t forget the mushy peas!
Already a member? Search for your next language experience or update your profile here. Haven’t signed up already, what are you waiting for? Start your profile here right away.
