British food often feels like a whole different world compared to American cuisine, even though we share a language. Many of the dishes might seem unusual at first glance, but they are actually quite incredible.
I have put together 24 recipes that highlight some of the best dinners and desserts from across the pond.
1. Eccles Cakes
These might appear simple on the surface. However, you will absolutely adore them once you take that first bite.
The mini cakes feature a flaky pastry shell packed with a sticky, sweet fruit filling.
2. London Fog (Earl Grey Tea Latte)
Tea is essential to daily life in Britain.
This popular latte brings Earl Grey together with milk for a delicious beverage. It is a creamy, leafy blend that works perfectly as an afternoon pick me up.
3. British Scones
Americans might recognize these as biscuits. They are incredibly moist and flaky with a nice crispness on the outside.
You typically see them at breakfast or tea time alongside cream, jam, or butter.
4. Cottage Pie
This comfort food features a layer of savory ground beef underneath creamy mashed potatoes.
It is very similar to Shepherd’s pie. The main difference is that this version uses beef rather than lamb.
5. Sticky Toffee Pudding
This decadent treat consists of a brown sugar sponge cake made with pureed dates. The base is delicious on its own.
However, the sticky toffee sauce poured all over it really defines the dish.
6. British Mashed Potatoes
People in the UK refer to this beloved side dish simply as mash.
They are rich, buttery, velvety, and smooth. This side pairs perfectly with almost any entree ranging from fish to roast beef.
7. Lancashire Hotpot
This lamb stew features a layer of thinly sliced potatoes sitting on top. It simmers in a thickened broth with butter for plenty of savory flavor.
The recipe also adds carrots for extra crunch and color.
8. Yorkshire Pudding
This puffy, bread like treat resembles a popover. It features a soft, eggy center surrounded by a crispy shell.
You usually serve it with roast beef to mop up any leftover meat juices.
9. Traditional British Mini-Chicken and Mushroom Pie
Tender chicken chunks mix with earthy mushrooms in a creamy filling. Everything gets sealed inside a rich, flaky pastry crust.
This comfort food is perfect for warming up on a rainy day.
10. Scottish Shortbread
This is arguably the ultimate treat for tea time. The buttery cookies are quite simple but incredibly addictive.
They have a lovely crumbly texture that keeps you coming back for more.
11. English Pickled Onions
Pearl onions soak in a marinade of spices, sugar, and vinegar for months. Their tangy flavor makes them a fantastic addition to sandwiches.
You also find them in a ploughman’s lunch alongside cheese and bread.
12. Strawberry Fool
It is hard to say no to this treat. The light dessert features layers of fresh strawberry slices and whipped cream infused with strawberries.
It is incredibly refreshing.
13. Beef Wellington
This fancy meal features beef tenderloin that melts in your mouth.
You top the meat with mushroom duxelles and wrap it in puff pastry. It bakes until it reaches golden perfection.
14. British Fish and Chips
A beer batter coating makes the fish incredibly crunchy and addictive. You serve it alongside chips, which are what Americans call French fries.
This iconic dish represents British comfort food at its finest.
15. Yorkshire Parkin
This sweet ginger cake contains black treacle and oatmeal.
You should make it about two weeks in advance. The flavor improves and the texture gets stickier the longer it sits.
16. Scottish Tablet
This medium hard candy has a gritty texture and an extremely sweet taste. It contains a mix of condensed milk, sugar, and butter.
The result is very rich.
17. Mince Pies
These pies originally contained a filling of fruit, spices, and animal fat called suet. Modern versions typically stick to spices and dried fruit.
They remain a staple for British Christmas celebrations.
18. British Mushy Peas
This side dish is the mandatory companion for fish and chips.
It has a rich, savory flavor and a bright green color. The creamy, smooth consistency works wonderfully as a dip or sauce.
19. Treacle Tart
This traditional pie features a sweet lemon filling inside a buttery shortbread crust. Golden syrup or treacle makes the center extra gooey.
Fans might recognize it as Harry Potter’s favorite dessert.
20. Spotted Dick
This traditional dessert is a steamed pudding packed with currants. You top it with creamy custard.
The name refers to the spotted appearance, though the second half of the name remains a mystery.
21. Victoria Sandwich
This iconic treat is actually a cake rather than a sandwich. It features layers of sponge cake filled with sweetened cream and jam.
A dusting of powdered sugar finishes it off.
22. British Flapjacks
These are oatmeal bars made with sweet, buttery syrup rather than pancakes. They have a chewy interior and a crisp exterior.
They are also incredibly easy to prepare.
23. Bangers and Mash
This satisfying meal combines sausages with mashed potatoes. A drizzle of rich onion gravy tops the whole thing off.
The name comes from sausages banging in the pan when cooked quickly.
24. Cornish Pasties
These savory hand pies originated in the Cornwall region. They feature a filling of steak and vegetables.
Miners used to eat this hearty dish because it was convenient and tasty whether hot or cold.