England is a country in the United Kingdom popular for its rich history, diverse culture, and beautiful landscapes. From the bustling city of London to the rolling hills of the Cotswolds, England offers something for everyone.
Visitors can explore iconic landmarks such as Big Ben and Stonehenge or immerse themselves in the vibrant music and arts scene. England is also home to numerous world-renowned universities and has significantly contributed to science, literature, and technology throughout history.
England is popular for its rich history and culture but is also a haven for food lovers. With so many traditional dishes to choose from, where do you start? We’ve compiled a list of the 19 most popular food in England that every foodie must try. And, of course, no English food guide is complete without mentioning Cream Tea. So put on your stretchy pants and indulge in mouth-watering treats because this guide will take you on a culinary journey through England that you won’t forget.
Top 19 Most Popular Food In England
From the classic Fish and Chips to the exotic Haggis, Neeps & Tatties, England’s cuisine boasts an array of flavours to tantalize your taste buds. Whether you’re a meat lover or a dessert fanatic, there’s something for everyone. Indulge in a hearty Sunday Roast or enjoy a light Ploughman’s Lunch with cheese and pickles. From savoury pies to sweet trifles, England has it all. Here are 19 popular food in England below:
1.Fish And Chips
Maintaining a long-standing history, fish and chips are a classic English dish that has stood the test of time. This deep-fried delicacy originated in the 19th century and has become a staple food across England, often enjoyed as a takeaway meal or at seaside restaurants.
Served with thick-cut chips (fries), this dish typically features battered cod or haddock, malt vinegar, and salt. However, variations like tartar sauce and mushy peas are also popular. It’s undoubtedly one of the most iconic dishes in English cuisine that must be relished by every food lover visiting England.
2.Shepherd’s Pie
Shepherd’s Pie is a beloved English dish that has stood the test of time. Originating in the early 18th century, this savoury pie comes with minced lamb or mutton, mixed with vegetables such as onion, carrot, and peas, and topped with creamy mashed potatoes before being baked perfectly.
The result is a hearty, comforting meal perfect for cold winter days. With many regional variations across England, Shepherd’s Pie is a must-try dish for anyone looking to experience traditional English cuisine.
3.Sunday Roast
The Sunday Roast, a quintessentially British dish, is perfect for bringing people together and celebrating over good food. Its origins date back to the 15th century when wealthy landowners would feast on roasted beef after church on Sundays. It has become a staple in many households across England, with dish variations being served in restaurants.
The meal typically consists of succulent roasted meat, potatoes, vegetables such as carrots and parsnips, and Yorkshire pudding served with gravy. It’s an experience that every food lover must indulge in when visiting England.
4.Full English Breakfast
A Full English Breakfast is a hearty and satisfying meal that will keep you going throughout the day. This traditional breakfast typically includes eggs, bacon, sausages, black pudding, baked beans, mushrooms, grilled tomatoes, and toast.
While it may seem like a lot of food, many people swear by this dish for a filling start to their day. If you want to experience classic English cuisine, a Full English Breakfast is worth trying.
5.Bangers And Mash
Bangers and Mash is a classic British dish popular among locals and tourists. The dish consists of juicy sausages and creamy mashed potatoes, served with a generous helping of gravy.
The flavoursome sausages are seasoned with herbs and spices, giving them a unique taste that pairs perfectly with the smooth texture of the mashed potatoes. You can find this dish in almost every pub or restaurant in England, making it an easy-to-find comfort food perfect for any meal of the day.
6.Lancashire Hot Pot
The Lancashire Hot Pot is a beloved dish that warms both body and soul. This slow-cooked casserole, originating from the county of Lancashire, consists of tender lamb or beef, onions, and potatoes in a savoury broth. The dish’s flavours meld together beautifully as it cooks under a layer of sliced potatoes, which become deliciously crispy on top.
It’s simple yet satisfying meal families have enjoyed for generations and can find in many pubs and restaurants across England. The pickled red cabbage or beetroot served alongside the hot pot perfectly complements its hearty flavour.
7.Steak And Kidney Pie / Pudding
Steak and Kidney Pie/Pudding is a classic English dish enjoyed for generations. This hearty meal features diced beef, kidneys, onions, and gravy enclosed in a pastry shell or suet crust. It originated in the 19th century and was popular among the working class due to its affordability and filling nature.
Today, it considers a national dish of England and can find in many pubs and restaurants. The pie/pudding often serves with sides such as mashed potatoes, peas, or roasted vegetables, making for a delicious and satisfying meal.
8.Haggis, Neeps & Tatties
Haggis, Neeps & Tatties is a traditional Scottish dish that has become popular across the UK. This hearty meal comes of haggis, neeps, and tatties: haggis is a savoury pudding made of sheep’s heart, liver, and lungs; neeps are turnips, and tatties are potatoes. These ingredients create a rich and flavorful dish often served with a whisky sauce or gravy.
Although it might not be the most visually appealing dish, it’s definitely worth trying for its unique taste and cultural significance. Haggis, Neeps & Tatties can be enjoyed at any time of year but are traditionally eaten on Burns Night to celebrate the life and works of Scottish poet Robert Burns.
9.Toad In The Hole
Toad in the Hole is classic English dish locals, and tourists love. It consists of succulent sausages baked in a crispy, golden-brown Yorkshire pudding batter. The dish’s name is said to have originated from the idea that the sausages look like toads peeking out from a hole.
This dish often serves with gravy and vegetables such as peas or carrots, making it a hearty and fulfilling meal for any time of day. With its rich history and delicious taste, Toad in the Hole remains a beloved comfort food in England today.
10.Pie, Mash & Liquor
Pie, Mash & Liquor is a quintessentially British dish originating in London’s East End. It consists of a savoury meat pie filled with beef, onion, or eel and served with mashed potatoes and parsley sauce known as liquor. This hearty meal has been popular since the 19th century and is now enjoyed nationwide.
Its rich flavour and comforting qualities make it a go-to dish for many Brits, especially during colder months. Variations of the dish find across different regions of England, each with its unique twist. Still, one thing remains constant – Pie, Mash & Liquor is an iconic and delicious example of traditional British cuisine.
11.Sticky Toffee Pudding
If you’re looking for a classic English dessert that’s both indulgent and comforting, look no further than Sticky Toffee Pudding. This mouth-watering treat comes with rich dates and drizzles with toffee sauce, creating a decadent flavour that will satisfy any sweet tooth.
Originating in the Lake District of England in the 1970s, Sticky Toffee Pudding has become a beloved dessert nationwide. Whether served warm with ice cream or whipped cream, this soft and moist sponge cake will surely delight anyone who tries it.
12.Trifle
Introducing the perfect dessert to end your meal- Trifle, a classic English dish loved by all. This delicious dessert features layers of custard, fruit, sponge cake, and whipped cream that combine in a medley of textures and flavours.
Its origins can trace back to the 16th century, making it a longstanding tradition in England. A trifle will satisfy any sweet tooth, whether served on special occasions or enjoyed as an everyday treat. With countless variations available, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy this beloved British delicacy.
13.Spotted Dick
Spotted Dick is a classic English dessert that generations have enjoyed. Made with suet and dried fruit, this dessert has a unique texture and taste that sets it apart from other desserts. It traditionally serves with custard, adding a rich and creamy flavour.
However, despite its popularity in England, Spotted Dick remains relatively unknown in other parts of the world. For those looking to explore authentic British cuisine, trying Spotted Dick should be high on their list.
14.Bakewell Tart
Bakewell Tart is a classic English dessert popular for its delicious taste and unique texture. Originating in Bakewell, Derbyshire, this tart has been enjoyed by locals and tourists for over two centuries.
The shortcrust pastry base filled with jam and almond frangipane makes for a delightful combination of sweet and nutty flavours. Often served cold with whipped cream or icing, Bakewell Tart is a perfect treat on a warm summer’s day or as a comforting dessert during the colder months.
15.Bread And Butter Pudding
Bread and Butter Pudding has been a nostalgia-inducing dessert fixture in English cuisine since the 17th century. This classic dish perfectly exemplifies how simple ingredients can transform into something delicious and comforting.
Traditionally made with stale bread, butter, sugar, eggs, and milk or cream, the pudding is baked until golden brown and served warm with custard or whipped cream. The combination of crispy edges and soft pillowy centre makes it an irresistible treat for anyone with a sweet tooth. Whether indulging in a homemade version or trying it at a local bakery or restaurant, Bread and Butter Pudding will satisfy your cravings for something warm and cosy.
16.Scotch Egg
Scotch eggs are a quintessential English snack you can enjoy on the go. These tasty treats consist of a hard-boiled egg coated in sausage meat and breaded before being deep-fried until crispy. With their unique textures and flavours, scotch eggs have become increasingly popular beyond England’s borders. Whether served hot or cold, scotch eggs make for an excellent protein-rich snack or appetizer. You can find this delicious treat in many local pubs, bakeries, and markets throughout England.
17.Cornish Pasty
The Cornish pasty is a traditional dish from Cornwall that has gained wide popularity in England and beyond. This savoury pastry filled with minced beef, potatoes, onions, and Swede is a perfect snack or meal on the go. The unique crimped side makes it easy to hold while eating and is ideal for miners who need a hands-free meal. Cornish pasties are now available in bakeries and cafes across England and can enjoy by anyone looking for a delicious, filling snack.
18.Black Pudding
Black pudding is a unique dish that has been a part of English cuisine for centuries. Made from pig’s blood, fat, and oatmeal, black pudding often serves as a breakfast dish alongside bacon and eggs. Despite its name and ingredients, it has a mild flavour that those not fans of offal can enjoy. In addition to being served for breakfast, black pudding is also handy as an ingredient in stews and pies, adding depth and richness to these dishes. Its versatility and unique taste makes it essential to any food lover’s guide to England.
19.Cream Tea
Cream tea is a classic English tradition that has been enjoyed for centuries. It is the perfect option for those seeking a sweet treat while enjoying a hot tea. Served with scones, clotted cream, and jam, this delightful snack can find in cafes, hotels, and tea rooms throughout England. An ideal choice for an afternoon break or a weekend treat, cream tea is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. Whether you are a local or visiting from abroad, add cream tea to your list of must-try foods in England.
Conclusion
England is famous for its hearty and delicious food. There is something for everyone, from the classic Fish and Chips to the traditional Full English Breakfast. Whether you are a local or a tourist, exploring the cuisine of England is an experience not to miss. So next time you find yourself in England, try some popular dishes.
When it comes to popular food in England, a few dishes immediately come to mind. From fish and chips to shepherd’s pie, these classic British dishes have been enjoyed by generations worldwide. But there is so much more to explore regarding English cuisine. Whether you’re a fan of savoury pies, hearty stews, or sweet treats like scones and pudding, there is something for everyone in this diverse and delicious cuisine.
Frequently Asked Questions
1.What Is England’s National Food Dish?
Ans: England has no specific national food dish, but many popular English dishes exist. Some favourites include fish and chips, roast beef with Yorkshire pudding, shepherd’s pie, and bangers and mash. For breakfast, a traditional English meal typically includes eggs, bacon, sausage, black pudding, mushrooms, baked beans, and toast.
2.Which Traditional British Dishes And Foods Will You Try?
Ans: If you want to try traditional British dishes and foods, consider sampling fish and chips, bangers and mash, shepherd’s pie, or roast beef with Yorkshire pudding. Don’t miss out on sticky toffee pudding or a classic Victoria’s sponge cake for dessert.
3.Is There Any Classic British Meal That Represents British Culture Better Than Chicken Tikka Masala?
Ans: While Chicken Tikka Masala is a popular dish in England, many people would argue that fish and chips are the classic British meal. Other dishes like shepherd’s pie, bangers and mash, and roast beef with Yorkshire pudding are also considered staples of British cuisine. It’s worth noting that the diversity of cuisine in England reflects the country’s multiculturalism and global influences.
4.Are You Looking To Try Local Cuisine While Studying English In The UK?
Ans: Yes, trying local cuisine is a fantastic way to experience and immerse yourself in the culture while studying English in the UK. Some traditional English dishes you can try include fish and chips, roast beef with Yorkshire pudding, and shepherd’s pie. Vegetarian and vegan options are also widely available throughout England, so there’s something for everyone.
5.What Is A Typical English Breakfast?
Ans: A typical English breakfast usually consists of eggs, bacon, sausages, baked beans, mushrooms, tomatoes, and black pudding. Toast or fried bread typically serves on the side. Tea or coffee is usually the drink of choice to accompany the meal.