British food isn’t for everyone, and it often gets a tough break from the rest of the world, with clichés about blandness and odd textures. But anyone who’s spent time enjoying the nation’s kitchens knows there’s so much more to it, so join us as we take a closer look at some classic British dishes that are often misunderstood.
Black Pudding
Black pudding tends to be written off by those who can’t get past the fact it’s made with blood, but if you can look beyond the ingredient list, this breakfast staple is nothing short of a flavor sensation. It’s a sausage-like delicacy that’s packed with oats, onions, and a host of warming spices that give it a deep, earthy flavor.
Marmite
Few foods split opinion as fiercely as Marmite; this dark, sticky spread made from yeast extract has become synonymous with “love it or hate it.” Sure, it’s got a strong, salty tang that isn’t for everyone, but for those who love it, it’s a pantry must-have, and Marmite on toast is the go-to choice for many.
Spotted Dick
Yes, the name is odd, and yes, it gets a lot of laughs from anyone unfamiliar with it—you might even avoid ordering it just so you don’t have to say it. However, spotted dick is an undeniable classic of UK desserts, because this suet-based pudding, dotted with dried fruits (hence the “spotted” part of the name), is a warm and indulgent treat that pairs perfectly with custard.
Jellied Eels
Jellied eels are the ultimate divisive dish, even within Great Britain, thanks to the process of fresh eels being cooked and cooled in a spiced stock until it sets into a jelly, preserving the fish in a savory layer. It might look peculiar to outsiders, but the taste is much milder than expected, with a delicate balance of brine and spice—not to mention it’s a cultural icon.
Haggis
While technically Scottish, haggis often gets lumped in with British food and unfairly ridiculed because of its ingredients: sheep’s heart, liver, and lungs minced with oats and spices. When cooked, however, haggis transforms into a rich, peppery blend of flavors that’s deeply satisfying, perfect when served with neeps and tatties (mashed turnips and potatoes).
Stargazy Pie
If you’ve never seen a Stargazy Pie, it can be startling at first glance when you’re looking at fish heads poking through a golden crust; it isn’t exactly what most people picture when they think of pie. But this Cornish specialty is a celebration of hearty, coastal flavors, traditionally made with pilchards, potatoes, eggs, and a flaky pastry crust.
Bangers and Mash
This dish doesn’t look flashy, and maybe that’s why it’s often dismissed by those who don’t understand its appeal of bangers and mash being the ultimate comfort food. Juicy, flavorful sausages served with creamy mashed potatoes and drenched in a rich onion gravy—it’s simple, sure, but that’s the point.
Eccles Cake
Made with buttery, flaky pastry and filled with spiced currants, these treats are small but packed with flavor, and they’re the kind of thing you’d have with a cup of tea on a lazy afternoon, savoring the rich, fruity filling. Critics might dismiss them as plain or forgettable, but anyone who’s had a fresh Eccles cake knows how indulgent they really are.
Bovril
Imagine sitting by a roaring fire on a chilly winter evening, sipping something warm: that’s the magic of Bovril, a beefy, savory drink that has been a British favorite for decades. While it might seem odd to some—drinking beef extract doesn’t exactly sound glamorous—it’s a comforting drink for many locals.
Treacle Tart
The name might confuse first-timers who think it’s made with treacle (a dark, sticky syrup), but treacle tart is actually a light, zesty dessert made with golden syrup, breadcrumbs, and a touch of lemon. It’s sweet without being overpowering, with a refreshing tang that keeps you coming back for more.
Pork Pies
Pork pies are the ultimate portable snack, rich, savory, and perfectly self-contained, made with a sturdy pastry crust that holds a seasoned pork filling, they’re satisfying in a way that few other snacks can match. The secret is in the jelly layer, which keeps the meat moist and flavorful, however outsiders often overlook pork pies because they seem too plain.
Bubble and Squeak
Also known as the hero of leftovers, bubble and squeak is a dish born from practicality but beloved for its taste. At its heart, it’s a mix of mashed potatoes and vegetables fried until golden and crispy, but the magic is in the variety—each batch is a little different depending on what’s in the fridge.
Kippers
Kippers are a traditional breakfast choice that might seem daunting at first, thanks to the fact that these smoked herrings have a strong aroma and a bold, salty flavor. They’re usually served with a slice of buttered bread, they’re the kind of food that makes you feel like you’re experiencing history with every bite—at least to UK folks.
Pickled Eggs
A pub staple that divides opinion almost as much as Marmite, pickled eggs are oaked in vinegar and spices so that they develop a tangy, punchy flavor that pairs surprisingly well with a pint of beer. While they’re a bit of an acquired taste, those who give them a chance often find them weirdly addictive.
Scones with Clotted Cream
Scones are simple on their own, but when paired with the right ingredients, they’re elevated to iconic status thanks to the thick, rich cream and a dollop of jam. With this, you’ve got the ultimate tea-time treat, despite the fact that critics call them dry (so they have probably never had one served properly).
Mushy Peas
Most people are put off by the bright green appearance of mushy peas, meaning this side dish might look odd to foreigners, but they’re perfect with fish and chips, another beloved British dish. Made by mashing peas with a bit of butter, salt, and sometimes mint, it’s a creamy and subtly sweet addition to the meal.