25 Food of England: A List of Food in England Everyone Should Try!

The culinary delights of England reflect its diverse history and cultural influence of Romans, Vikings and Normans. Traditionally, English cuisine is described as a hearty and comforting one with lots of potatoes and meat delicacies. England offers something to everyone, be it a wholesome breakfast or an indulgent dessert. With a surge in modernity in British cuisine, a lot of international flavours and techniques have been incorporated into the fusion dishes of the country making them more exciting and delicious. Let’s find out about some of the famous food of England that are must try while exploring the country:- 

1. Shepherd’s Pie

A classic British dish that is a perfect companion for a cold winter’s day for many Brits, Shepherd’s Pie is made with lamb, beef or pork, topped with mashed potatoes and baked perfectly in the oven.  The variations of Shepherd’s Pie change with the variety of meat, and is also known as cottage pie and pork pie when with beef and pork. The crunch of vegetables enhances the texture of the Pie even without the pastry like regular pies. The recent modern twist of trying various fillings like duck meat, salmon, chicken, spinach or any other vegetable can also be relished in England. 

2. Bangers and Mash

Bangers and Mash is a common dish in the British that has sausages and mashed potatoes served with a side of gravy and peas. The sausages are made from pork and the mash of potatoes is made by incorporating butter and milk in the boiled potatoes. Bangers and Mash is considered a portion of comfort food in England and are available at every restaurant or pub, hence can be enjoyed as a simple yet satisfying meal at any time of the day. 

3. Fish and Chips

Fish and Chips is a quintessential dish in England that was popularised in the 19th century and still tops the list of favourite dishes of Britishers. The dish has fried cod or haddock fish, seasoned and served with thick-cut potato chips. Traditionally, the dish is served with mushy peas and some tartar sauce that makes it more appetizing. Being a staple food of British cuisine, fish and chips can be enjoyed anywhere in the country, be it at a street vendor or a high-end restaurant. 

4. Toad in the Hole

Toad in the Hole is a traditional dish of England that is believed to have been named from its resemblance of sausages sticking out of the batter to the toads peeking out of their holes. Typically, the dish consists of sausages that are baked with a coating of batter made from flour, eggs and milk. The dish is served with onion gravy and vegetables like peas and carrots to add a crunchy element to the dish. 

5. Cream Tea

People in England love cream tea as a mid-afternoon or evening snack where the scones, clotted cream and jam are served with a pot of tea. The warm scones are topped with strawberry or raspberry jam. The clotted cream is a thick and creamy spread that is made by heating the cream until it forms a thick layer on the top and is added to the scones. 

6. Apple Pie

A symbolic dish depicting the bakery culture of England, Apple Pie is a classic English dessert that is made from a pastry crust filled with flavoured cinnamon sliced apples. The pie is baked until it is golden brown and the soft, gooey filling is filled in the core of the pie. The pie is normally served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a spoonful of whipped cream. 

7. English Breakfast Meal

English Breakfast is a hearty and staple meal in England that is eaten in the morning and is served at every restaurant. Consisting of components like fried, poached or scrambled eggs, bacon, baked beans, mushrooms, grilled vegetables and black pudding, the meal is designed to keep people energetic for the day with all the nutrients. It is often served with a bread toast and a hot beverage that can either be tea or coffee. 

8. Sunday Roast

As the name suggests, Sunday Roast is eaten in England on Sundays and is a cornerstone of British cuisine. Consisting of roasted meat, typically beef, lamb or chicken that is served with roasted vegetables like carrots, potatoes and parsnips. Pudding, gravy and some stuffing are added to the dish to make it a wholesome meal. This dish is considered a symbol of English hospitality and is available in all the restaurants in the country. 

9. Yorkshire Pudding

Yorkshire Pudding, often served with Sunday Roast, is a dessert made from a batter of eggs, flour, and milk that is baked. With a crispy crust and fluffy softcore, the pudding is served with a sweet gravy and is also used as a side dish to soak up juices from the roasted meat. Loved by the English, this simple and delicious dish is worth trying solely or with Sunday Roast when in England. 

10. English Pancakes

Thinner and more delicate than American Pancakes, English Pancakes are made from a simple batter of flour, eggs, milk and salt. It is a popular breakfast dish in England and is served with either lemon juice, sprinkled sugar, syrups or jams. English pancakes are available, both in sweet and savoury flavours and can be enjoyed at any time of the day. 

11. Pie, Mash and Liquor

Pie, Mash and Liquor is a traditional meal popular in the Eastern part of England that consists of a meat pie, mashed potatoes, and a parsley sauce known as liquor. The liquor is made from water, flour and parsley herbs and is poured over the pie and mashed potatoes. The pie, mash and liquor are a beloved part of English cuisine and can be found all across the East End of London. 

12. Lancashire Hot Pot

A meat and potato dish, Lancashire Hot Pot originated in the North West of England. Lamb or mutton are layered with sliced potatoes and onions in a deep dish while preparing Lancashire Hot Pot. The dish is then covered with a pastry lid and slowly cooked in the oven for hours. The tender and flavorful stew dish makes a perfect wholesome English dish that can be enjoyed in North Western England. This one pot meal will provide you with all the nutrients and flavours of English cuisine. 

13. Scones

Served with cream tea or afternoon tea, Scones are a type of sweet pastry that is made from sugar, butter and flour and is baked until it is golden brown in colour. The Scones are served with clotted cream and jam to make them extra delicious. With a variety of flavours and treats, Scones are available in savoury, fruity and basic tastes. Combine it with fruits, syrups, creams or gravies to enjoy the perfect essence of the dish. 

14. Bacon Butties

Bacon Butties is an English sandwich that is made with bread and crispy bacon, which can be crispy or streaky. A staple dish across all the cafes, restaurants and street vendors, Bacon Butties is a quick snack with vegetables, bacon and types of bread. Bacon Butties are usually served with brown sauce or ketchup to enhance the taste of the sandwich. 

15. Faggots

Faggots, a traditional food of Western England, are meatballs made from offal or off-cut meat like pork, bacon, etc. The dish is flavourful as it is seasoned with herbs and breaks crumbs. The meatballs are usually served with gravy, peas and mashed potatoes. The entire dish is a wholesome meal and is often available during lunch and dinner times. 

16. Scouse

Scouse is a historical dish in England that was created by sailors while they were sailing and had limited resources for their food. The dish is normally a stew that is cooked with beef or lamb and is accompanied by vegetables like carrots, onions and potatoes. The stew is served with bread or buttered beetroot, which is a comforting dish in England. 

17. Steak and Kidney Pie

Defined as a rich, hearty and wholesome dish, Steak and Kidney Pie is a savoury pie made with tender chunks of beef, kidneys and vegetables that are cooked to make it soft. The meat and vegetables are then baked in a pastry crust. Often served with mashed potatoes and gravy, this dish will surely satisfy your appetite at any time of the day. 

18. Scotch Egg

England is known for its savoury snacks and appetizer dishes. Scotch Eggs are one of the delicious appetizers in England that consist of a hard-boiled egg, wrapped in sausage meat, coated in breadcrumbs and then deep-fried until crispy. Originating in the 18th century, this dish can be found in all the pubs, cafes, and restaurants of England. The side mustard sauce or piccalilli sauce completes the dish with the flavours. It is often enjoyed with high tea or as an evening snack accompanied by some scones. 

19. Trifle

A classic dessert of England, Trifle is a layered dish that includes sponge cake, ladyfingers, fruit, custard, jelly and whipped cream set in a large glass bowl. The dish has its roots back in the 16th century when it was served as a cold dessert made with cream, sugar and rosewater. The recipe has evolved since then and is available in variations with sherry, brandy or other spirits. This colourful dish is normally made on special occasions in England but can be found at any restaurant as a dessert. 

20. Kedgeree

Kedgeree is a flavorful dish inspired by Indian Khichdi and is now one of the favourite breakfast dishes in England. It is a one-pot meal that has smoked haddock, rice, eggs and curry spices. Served with a crunchy element, the combination of meat, smoky fish, fragrant rice and spices make it a delicious and satisfying delicacy to enjoy while in England. 

21. Jellied Eels

A traditional dish that holds a cultural heritage of Eastern England, Jellied Eels consist of chopped and boiled eels that are left in a pot of gelatinous stock. Typically seasoned with pepper, vinegar and other spices, the cold eels are served with bread and mashed potatoes. Taste the best flavors of Jellied Eels on a street side vendor or local fishmongers apart from pubs and restaurants of the city. Pair it with any English hot beverage for a perfect treat. 

22. Black Pudding

Black Pudding is a breakfast dish of England made from blood that is mixed with oats, barley, fat and spices. With a long historical story, this dish is rich in iron and protein and is popular among food enthusiasts for the flavor and texture. Grab a bowl of black pudding or taste it as an ingredient in dishes like pies, stews or English breakfast platters. 

23. Cornish Pasty

Originated in Cornwall of England, Cornish Pasty or Cornish Pastry is a savory pastry filled with diced beef, potatoes, onions and swede, which is similar to turnips. Crimped edges, distinctive D-shape and golden brown color make it more appetizing. The cornish pasty was started by the miners in the 19th century and is one of the favorite snacks of English people now. It is served with ketchup or brown sugar. 

24. Devilled Kidneys

Traditionally made with lamb kidneys that are grilled in a spicy sauce, Devilled Kidneys are a historical and popular dish in England. It was famous among people in the Victorian era as a breakfast option. Perfectly entangled in the flavours of mustard, cayenne pepper, butter and Worcestershire sauce, the dish is still enjoyed as a brunch or breakfast dish in England. 

25. Sticky Toffee Pudding

Sticky Toffee Pudding is a perfect dessert for all caramel lovers as it is made from a sponge cake topped with caramelized toffee sauce and infused with the flavours of dates. Accompanied by ice cream or custard, the pudding is must try for anyone visiting England. 

England’s cuisine is both modernistic and diversified with flavours and health. From classic Fish and Chips to the indulgent Sticky Toffee Pudding, the trip to England is incomplete without trying the range of delicacies. So, experience the culinary delight in the best way possible while enjoying the trip to England.