25 must-try British dishes to discover during your studies in the UK
As an international student in the UK, not only are you immersed in a new culture, but also in a whole new world of food! British cuisine has evolved over centuries, influenced by various cultures, making it diverse and delicious. From traditional dishes to modern fusion creations, there is something for every palate in the UK.
In this blog post, we will take you on a gastronomic journey through 25 of the most traditional must-try British foods.
Table of Contents
Fish and chips
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Fish and chips is a dish that has become synonymous with Britain. This popular dish consists of battered fish, typically cod or haddock, served with a side of thick-cut chips, or fries, and often enjoyed with malt vinegar. While its origins are debated, it is thought that the dish first emerged in the 19th century as a quick and cheap meal for the working class. Since then, fish and chips have become a beloved staple in British cuisine and are often sought out by visitors to the country.
Spotted dick
Spotted dick is a traditional British sweet dish that has been enjoyed for centuries. This unique dessert is made from suet, flour, and dried fruit, such as raisins or currants, that are then steamed in a pudding basin. Some variations include the addition of cinnamon or nutmeg to enhance its flavour.
Black pudding
Black pudding is a type of sausage that is traditionally made from a mixture of pig's blood, fat, and oatmeal. Although the exact origins of black pudding are uncertain, it is believed to have been introduced by the Celts or Romans, who were known for their efficient use of animal parts.
Over time, black pudding has become a staple breakfast food in many parts of Britain, and is often served alongside other traditional breakfast items such as eggs, bacon, and baked beans.
Bubble and squeak
Bubble and squeak is a savoury dish that is usually eaten as (or as part of) an evening meal. It typically consists of leftover vegetables, most commonly potatoes, that are mashed and fried with cabbage or other greens. The origins of the name bubble and squeak are somewhat murky, but it is thought to refer to the sounds the dish makes while cooking!
Despite its humble beginnings as a way to use up leftovers, bubble and squeak has become a beloved and iconic dish in British cuisine.
Jellied eels
Jellied eels were originally popularised in the East End of London during the 18th century. Back then, the Thames River was rife with eels, and they were a cheap and readily available source of food for working-class families. To prepare jellied eels, the eels are first boiled in a mixture of vinegar, herbs, and spices, then allowed to cool and congeal into a jelly-like substance.
This dish fell out of fashion in the mid-20th century but has since experienced a renaissance in recent years. Whilst an acquired taste and texture, jellied eels are a good British delicacy to try!
Scones
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Scones are one of Britain's best loved sweet treats, and are particularly associated with the South West counties of Devon and Cornwall. These delicious baked goods are typically served with currants and paired with jam and cream for the ultimate sweet treat.
Whether enjoyed as part of a traditional 'afternoon tea' or as a standalone snack, scones are a British treat that should not be missed!
Shepherd’s pie
Shepherd's pie is a classic British dish that has become a popular comfort food around the world. It is a savoury, hearty dish typically made with minced lamb or mutton, mixed with vegetables such as peas, carrots, and onions, and topped with a layer of mashed potatoes.
The origins of shepherd's pie can be traced back to the late 18th century in the United Kingdom, where it was originally made as a way to use up leftover meat.
Rice pudding
A creamy and comforting delicacy, rice pudding is made by simmering rice in milk and sugar until it forms a custard-like consistency. What makes rice pudding so appealing is its versatility; it can be served warm or chilled, topped with cinnamon or fruit, and even used as a filling for pastries. So whether you're looking for a traditional dessert or simply want a satisfying sweet treat, rice pudding is a great choice!
Pie and mash
Pie and mash is a classic British dish that consists of a savoury pie filled with meat or vegetables, served alongside creamy mashed potatoes and - traditionally - topped with a generous dollop of liquor sauce (not actually alcoholic, despite the name!).
While the origins of pie and mash are not entirely clear, historians believe that it originated in London's East End during the 19th century. The dish quickly became popular among the working-class communities, who valued it for its affordability and simplicity.
Today, pie and mash can be found in traditional food stalls, restaurants, and even Michelin-rated establishments.
Marmite
In the early 1800s, a famous German scientist, Justus Freiherr Von Liebig (12th May 1803 – 18th April 1873) accidentally discovered that the waste product derived from yeast used in brewing beer could be made into a meaty flavoured concentrate that was completely vegetarian.
Marmite - as it became known and marketed as in the UK - is a spread that has been polarising British (and global!) taste buds for over a century! Loved by some and loathed by others, this dark, savoury paste is often described as strong and pungent.
Fans of marmite rave about its unique taste and versatility, adding it to toast, sandwiches, or even using it as a flavouring in cooking.
Regardless of where your taste buds land on the spectrum, it's difficult to deny that marmite is a true original!
Trifle
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A trifle is a quintessentially British dessert, rich in history and flavour. It typically consists of layers of sponge cake soaked in alcohol such as sherry or brandy, fruit, custard, and whipped cream, all topped off with a generous sprinkling of nuts or chocolate shavings.
Brits tend to prepare trifle at home; it is not generally feature on dessert menus in restaurants.
Welsh cawl
Welsh cawl is a traditional stew originating from Wales. This hearty dish consists of lamb or beef, alongside a variety of root vegetables and leeks, cooked together for hours to create a rich, wholesome meal that is perfect for cold winter evenings. It is generally served with crusty bread or oatcakes.
Jam roly poly
The recipe for jam roly-poly was created by English food writer Eliza Acton, who published one of England’s first cookbooks – Modern Cookery for Private Families. The dessert is included in one of Beatrix Potter’s stories, ‘The Tale of Samuel Whiskers or The Roly-Poly Pudding'.
Its ingredients are simple: a dough made from suet is spread liberally with jam, rolled up like a Swiss roll, then steamed or baked. Jam roly-poly is served topped with plenty of steaming custard, which – along with the jam – provides the sweetness.
Christmas pudding
Christmas pudding is a traditional British dessert that has been enjoyed for centuries during the festive season. Made from a blend of raisins, sultanas, currants, and mixed peel, along with cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, Christmas pudding is typically served with a dollop of brandy butter or cream.
One of the most interesting customs associated with the Christmas pudding is the inclusion of a coin inside the mixture, which is believed to bring good luck to the person who finds it in their portion.
Pork pie
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A pork pie is a beloved British snack that has been enjoyed for centuries. This savoury pastry treat is filled with seasoned pork and enclosed in a crust, creating a delicious and hearty bite-sized snack. Pork pies are a staple of British cuisine and can be found in bakeries, cafes, and even sold at food stands and markets.
Eton mess
Eton Mess is a delicious British dessert that is enjoyed around the world. It consists of a mixture of crushed meringue, cream, and berries, often strawberries.
Its origins can be traced back to Eton College, a prestigious British private school, where it was traditionally served at the school's annual cricket match. Legend has it that a pavlova dessert was accidentally dropped, and the mess that resulted became the inspiration for this beloved dessert.
Scotch egg
The Scotch egg, a classic British food, is a mouth-watering delicacy that is known for its unique taste and texture. It is a hard-boiled egg, encased in a layer of sausage meat and breadcrumbs before being deep-fried or baked.
The origins of the Scotch egg dates back to the early 18th century, where it was a popular meal with wealthy people in London. Some believe that it was created by Scottish farmers, whereas others lay claim to it being an invention by the famous department store Fortnum & Mason.
The Full English
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The full English breakfast is a quintessential meal in British culture. Its components have evolved over time, but the staples include eggs, bacon (traditionally back bacon), sausage, baked beans, grilled mushrooms and tomatoes, and black pudding. The full English is not a light meal but is perfect for those who need fuel to take on a day's work!
Fish fingers, chips and beans
Fish fingers, chips, and beans are a beloved British meal enjoyed by British children in particular! This dish is a popular staple in households up and down the country.
The dish consists of crispy breaded fish fillets, salty chips, and a hearty helping of baked beans. While it may be seen as a kid's food, its flavour, ease and affordability make it popular with all generations!
Sausage roll
Sausage rolls are a classic British food that make for the perfect snack. These savoury treats consist of a seasoned sausage wrapped in pastry and baked until golden brown.
While the exact origins of sausage rolls are unclear, they have long been a popular choice among the British, often enjoyed with a cup of tea or as part of a picnic spread.
Steak and kidney pie
If you're looking for a traditional British meal that's hearty and satisfying, then steak and kidney pie is a dish you won't want to miss. This savoury food combines succulent chunks of beef steak and tender kidney enveloped in a suet pastry.
It is typically served with mashed potatoes and vegetables and is considered a staple of British comfort food. The careful preparation of soaking the meat and steaming for hours ensures that the flavours meld together, resulting in a dish that's packed with flavours.
Battenberg cake
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Battenberg cake is a beloved British treat that has been enjoyed for over a century. Its distinct checkerboard pattern of pink and yellow sponge cake, with a layer of apricot jam in between, is an eye-catching sight!
The origins of Battenberg cake are somewhat disputed, with some claiming it was inspired by the German town of Battenberg, while others argue that it was created by the Royal Family to commemorate the marriage of Princess Victoria of Hesse and Prince Louis of Battenberg.
Full Scottish breakfast
If you are looking to indulge in a hearty breakfast that will keep you fuelled for an adventurous day of sight-seeing and exploring, look no further than a full Scottish breakfast.
Typically, a Full Scottish Breakfast includes eggs (either scrambled or fried), bacon, sausages (known as Lorne, square, or link in Scotland), black pudding, baked beans, mushrooms, grilled tomatoes, and tattie scones. Some variations may also include haggis, a savoury pudding made from sheep's heart, liver, and lungs.
Yorkshire pudding
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Despite its name, Yorkshire pudding is not actually a dessert, but rather a savoury side dish typically served with meat and gravy. It is made from a simple batter of flour, eggs, and milk, and cooked in a hot oven until it rises and forms a crisp, golden crust.
Whilst traditionally eaten as part of a Sunday roast (usually roast beef), Yorkshire pudding has a starring role in another popular British dish; toad in the hole! This classic dish consists of pork sausages embedded in a light, fluffy batter (Yorkshire pudding) and baked in the oven.
Learn More About Studying in the UK
We hope that this article has given you more information about some of the most traditional British foods you can find when in the UK.
Further articles about life and study in the UK, covering topics such as the benefits of studying in the UK, UK culture and the best UK universities for international students can be found on our blog, Kings Life.
At Kings, we offer a range of pre-university programmes at our four UK colleges, from A-levels to specialist foundations for international students, such as the Advanced Level Foundation.
By selecting to study at our UK schools, you will maximise your potential, and be sure of a place at the best possible UK university.
For those who require English preparation, we also offer a range of English language programmes, from general English tuition to exam preparation courses and specialist English for career success.
If you would like receive more detailed information about the Kings and our programmes, please get in touch with us at enquiries@kingseducation.com.
