English cuisine: regional specialties

When thinking of English cuisine, most people certainly have a true classic in mind: Fish and Chips. However, the chefs of England have much more to offer than just fries with fish. Especially hearty and filling dishes are commonly found on English menus during your UK holiday. Expect to find plenty of fried and calorie-rich food on your plate. If you’re planning to indulge, it's best not to be on a diet while in England. While British cuisine may not quite compare to Italian or French fare, there are some centuries-old delicacies that you should definitely try. 

Scotch Egg

Despite its name, you might assume this hearty egg dish originates from Scotland. In reality, the "Scotch Egg" was first made in London in 1738 by Fortnum & Mason. This British snack specialty consists of hard-boiled eggs wrapped in sausage meat and then breaded and fried. Scotch eggs are typically enjoyed either hot or cold. Nowadays, you can find this quick snack in almost every supermarket in England. 

Scotch eggs

Scones 

Scones originally hail from the British Isles. These small baked goods are traditionally served during England’s classic tea time, typically between 4 and 5 p.m. According to tradition, they are eaten warm with strawberry jam and clotted cream. A cup of Earl Grey tea with a splash of milk pairs perfectly with soft scones. Today, scones are often round or triangular, whereas in the past, they were much larger and flatter. 

Toad in the Hole 

This British dish is believed to have been invented in the 18th century. It was originally a way to stretch meat supplies in poor households. The little amount of meat available was mixed with various other ingredients. The meat was then baked in a filling batter and served with a savory gravy. Different types of meat were used, ranging from beef and lamb to kidneys or sausages. 

Toad in the Hole

Chelsea Buns 

Chelsea Buns are small rolls made from yeast dough and eggs. They are baked in a pan and torn apart before serving. The sweetness of these buns comes from their toppings. A mixture of sultanas, butter, candied peel, brown sugar, and currants is spread like a jelly over the rolled-out dough, which is then rolled up and sliced. Finally, a golden syrup is drizzled over the buns. 

Full English Breakfast 

The Full English Breakfast is a very famous classic of English cuisine. It is typically eaten by the British on weekends or holidays. While it is usually served at breakfast, you can enjoy it as a full meal throughout the day. The central components of a Full English Breakfast are bacon, eggs, and sausages. It also includes toast, grilled tomatoes, baked beans, mushrooms, and fried onions. Its origins likely lie in rural England, where it was designed to provide a hearty foundation for workers. 

Full English Breakfast

Black Pudding 

Contrary to what the name might suggest, Black Pudding is not a sweet dessert. This black blood sausage is made from animal blood. Historically, it was a way to make use of slaughterhouse byproducts. The blood of pigs is mixed with fat and oats, then stuffed into intestines. The resulting sausage is then either boiled, fried, or grilled. Various spices give Black Pudding its distinctive flavor. 

Fish and Chips 

The internationally renowned dish of England is undoubtedly Fish and Chips. This British classic can be found both in fine restaurants and takeaway stalls. The British consume an average of 382 million portions of this dish annually. The dish likely arrived in England with Jewish immigrants from Spain, who were the first to coat fish in flour and then fry it. Samuel Isaacs popularized Fish and Chips in 1896 by opening a restaurant in London where he served fish and fries along with bread and butter at affordable prices. 

Fish and Chips

Beef Wellington 

As the name suggests, Beef Wellington is made from a piece of beef fillet. This fillet is surrounded by layers of pâté, finely chopped mushroom mixture, prosciutto, and puff pastry. It is said that this English specialty was named after the 1st Duke of Wellington, who considered it one of his favorite dishes. The British typically prepare it for festive occasions like Christmas, New Year's, or birthdays. Over time, various versions of Beef Wellington have emerged, such as those made with salmon or sausage. Vegetarian versions, like mushroom and beet Wellington, have also appeared on English restaurant menus. 

Shepherd's Pie 

Shepherd's Pie is not only very healthy but also quite filling and hearty. This savory pie consists of several layers of ingredients. The bottom layer is a mixture of lamb mince and vegetables. On top of that, a savory gravy is added, followed by a creamy mashed potato layer, which forms a golden crust when baked. This specialty originated in the 18th century and was a way to use up leftovers. A similar dish, Cottage Pie, is made with beef instead of lamb. Shepherd's Pie is especially popular among the British in the winter months. 

Shepherd's Pie

Yorkshire Pudding 

Yorkshire Pudding is known worldwide as a British specialty and remains as popular as ever. Especially on Sundays, the British enjoy it in great numbers. This tradition extends far beyond England, with countries like New Zealand, Australia, and Canada also considering it a beloved part of their culinary culture. It is made from a simple mixture of eggs, milk, flour, and salt.