Get ready to indulge in a taste of old England with these 18 timeless British cooking recipes that have stood the test of time. From hearty stews and comforting casseroles to sweet treats and indulgent desserts, these iconic dishes are sure to transport you back to a bygone era.
Start your culinary journey with a classic Beef and Guinness Stew, rich and flavorful with tender chunks of beef and a depth of flavor from the dark stout. Or perhaps you’d prefer something a bit more nostalgic, like Traditional Fish and Chips, crispy battered fish served with fluffy chips (fries) and a side of mushy peas? Whatever your taste buds desire, we’ve got you covered with these beloved British recipes that are sure to become new favorites.
Beef and Guinness Stew
This rich and flavorful stew is perfect for a chilly evening. The combination of tender beef, savory Guinness stout, and aromatic vegetables will warm your heart and belly.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef chuck or brisket, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup Guinness stout
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and potatoes. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
4. Add Guinness stout, beef broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Return the beef to the pot and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 2-3 hours or until beef is tender.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Traditional Fish and Chips
Get ready to enjoy a mouth-watering plate of crispy fish and golden chips, just like you’d find at your local takeaway shop!
Ingredients:
– 4 cod or haddock fillets (about 6 oz each)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 2 cups potatoes, peeled and cut into chips
– Baking soda, water, and lemon wedges for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large saucepan to 350°F.
2. In a bowl, mix together flour, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each fish fillet into the flour mixture, coating evenly.
4. Fry the fish for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, soak the potato chips in cold water with a tablespoon of baking soda. Drain and fry in batches at 350°F for 3-4 minutes, or until crispy.
6. Serve hot with your favorite sides and condiments.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bangers and Mash with Onion Gravy
A hearty and satisfying dish that’s perfect for a chilly evening. This recipe combines juicy sausages, creamy mashed potatoes, and a rich onion gravy that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork sausages (bangers)
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup chicken or beef broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Boil the chopped potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and mash with butter and a splash of broth.
2. Cook the sausages in a large skillet over medium-high heat, about 5-7 minutes per side, or until browned and cooked through.
3. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook until caramelized and golden, about 8-10 minutes.
4. Add the broth to the skillet and stir to combine with the onion mixture. Bring to a simmer and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until thickened slightly.
5. Serve the sausages atop the mashed potatoes and spoon the onion gravy over the top.
Cooking Time: About 30-40 minutes from start to finish.
Ploughman’s Lunch with Crusty Bread
A classic British combination of flavors and textures, this ploughman’s lunch is perfect for a quick and satisfying snack or meal. The crusty bread provides a sturdy base for the rich and tangy cheese, sweet pickles, and savory meats.
Ingredients:
– 1 baguette
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 4 slices of Cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chutney or pickle relish
– 2 ounces of ham or prosciutto
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Slice the baguette into 1-inch thick rounds.
3. Butter each slice lightly.
4. Top each slice with a piece of cheese, a dollop of chutney or pickle relish, and a few pieces of ham or prosciutto.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Toad in the Hole with Mustard Sauce
Toad in the Hole with Mustard Sauce Recipe
A classic British dish that’s perfect for a comforting meal, Toad in the Hole is a sausage wrapped in Yorkshire pudding and served with a tangy mustard sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork sausages
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 eggs
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Mustard Sauce ingredients (see below)
Mustard Sauce:
– 1/2 cup whole-grain mustard
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, eggs, and milk.
3. Add salt and pepper to taste.
4. Pour mixture into a greased 12-cup muffin tin or a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Cook for 20-25 minutes or until Yorkshire pudding is puffed and golden brown.
6. Meanwhile, cook sausages in a pan over medium-high heat until browned.
7. Serve sausages on top of Yorkshire pudding with Mustard Sauce drizzled over.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Cornish Pasty with Flaky Pastry
This iconic British dish originated in Cornwall, where it’s a staple comfort food. Our recipe yields a deliciously flaky pastry filled with tender beef, vegetables, and a hint of spice.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup ice-cold water
– Filling ingredients (see below)
– Salt, to taste
Filling:
– 1 lb beef, diced
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 1 potato, peeled and diced
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine flour and butter. Use a pastry blender or fingers to work the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add water, stirring with a fork until dough forms.
4. On a lightly floured surface, roll out dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch (3 mm).
5. Fill center of dough with beef and vegetables. Fold edges over filling, pressing gently to seal.
6. Place pasty on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush top with egg wash or water.
7. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Full English Breakfast with Black Pudding
A classic British breakfast gets a boost with the addition of black pudding – a savory sausage made from pork blood, oatmeal, and spices. This hearty Full English Breakfast with Black Pudding is sure to start your day off right!
Ingredients:
– 4 eggs
– 2 slices of bacon (rashers)
– 1 black pudding ring
– 2 sausages
– 1 grilled tomato
– 1 slice of bread (toast)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Butter or margarine for toast
Instructions:
1. Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk them together with a fork.
2. Cook the bacon in a pan over medium heat until crispy, flipping halfway through.
3. Grill the sausages in the same pan as the bacon, about 5-7 minutes per side or until cooked through.
4. Slice the black pudding ring into thick rounds and cook in a pan with a little oil over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until slightly browned.
5. Toast the bread and spread with butter or margarine.
6. Serve all ingredients together on a plate.
Cooking time: About 15-20 minutes.
Shepherd’s Pie with Cheesy Topping
A classic comfort food dish that combines tender lamb or beef, rich vegetables, and a crispy cheesy topping.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground lamb or beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup beef broth
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cups mashed potatoes
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the lamb or beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the onion, garlic, peas and carrots, broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Spread the mashed potatoes over the top of the lamb mixture.
6. Sprinkle the cheddar and Parmesan cheese evenly over the potatoes.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lancashire Hotpot with Lamb
This classic British dish originates from Lancashire, where lamb and potatoes are staple ingredients. This recipe combines tender lamb with flavorful vegetables and a rich gravy, making it a perfect comfort food for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless lamb shoulder or neck fillet
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup lamb stock or beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large casserole dish, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the lamb and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the sliced potatoes, garlic, stock, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Cover the dish with a lid or foil and transfer to the preheated oven. Cook for 2-3 hours, or until the lamb is tender and the potatoes are cooked through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Sticky Toffee Pudding with Custard
A classic British dessert that combines the warmth of toffee and the comfort of custard, this Sticky Toffee Pudding is a crowd-pleaser. Moist dates and sweet toffee sauce are balanced by a rich custard topping, making for a delightful treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) pitted dates
– 1/2 cup (100g) brown sugar
– 1/4 cup (50g) golden syrup
– 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– Custard topping: 2 cups (475ml) milk, 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar, 3 large egg yolks
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a saucepan, combine dates, brown sugar, and golden syrup. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens.
3. Remove from heat and stir in cream, baking powder, and salt.
4. Add melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract to the date mixture; mix well.
5. Pour into a 9×13-inch (23x33cm) baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
6. For custard topping: Whisk together milk, sugar, and egg yolks in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens.
7. Serve warm with toffee sauce spooned over.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Scotch Eggs with Spicy Mustard
These savory bites are a perfect snack or appetizer, and the spicy kick from the mustard adds an exciting layer of flavor. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious treat that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4 large eggs, hard-boiled and peeled
– 1 pound pork sausage, casings removed
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– Spicy mustard (store-bought or homemade)
– Chopped fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. Wrap each egg in a sausage patty, making sure to seal the edges.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each sausage-wrapped egg into the flour mixture, coating evenly.
4. Dip the floured eggs into the milk, then roll in melted butter to coat.
5. Fry the Scotch eggs in hot oil (350°F) for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve warm with a dollop of spicy mustard.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Welsh Rarebit with Ale and Mustard
Warm up with a comforting bowl of this rich and creamy Welsh Rarebit, infused with the bold flavors of ale and mustard. This classic recipe is perfect for a cozy evening in.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– 1/2 cup ale (such as IPA or pale ale)
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Butter the bread slices on one side.
3. In a separate saucepan, melt the remaining butter over medium heat.
4. Add the grated cheese and whisk until smooth.
5. Gradually add the ale, mustard, salt, and pepper, whisking continuously.
6. Place the bread slices in a baking dish and pour the cheese mixture evenly over them.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Eton Mess with Fresh Strawberries
A classic British dessert, Eton Mess is a simple yet elegant treat that combines fresh strawberries, whipped cream, and crushed meringue. This recipe is perfect for warm weather when sweet and juicy strawberries are in season.
Ingredients:
– 1 pint of fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 8 ounces heavy whipping cream
– 2 large egg whites
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup crushed meringue cookies (store-bought or homemade)
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Whip the heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form.
2. In a separate bowl, whip the egg whites and granulated sugar until stiff peaks form.
3. Fold the whipped cream into the meringue mixture until combined.
4. Arrange sliced strawberries on a serving plate or individual glasses.
5. Top the strawberries with the whipped meringue mixture.
6. Sprinkle crushed meringue cookies over the top of the Eton Mess.
7. Garnish with fresh mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This dessert is ready in minutes.
Chicken Tikka Masala with Basmati Rice
Experience the flavors of India with this popular dish, featuring marinated chicken cooked in a rich and creamy tomato sauce, served over fluffy basmati rice.
Ingredients:
For the chicken:
– 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/2 cup plain yogurt
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 2 tsp garam masala
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper
For the sauce:
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 1 tsp garam masala
– Salt and pepper
For the basmati rice:
– 1 cup basmati rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tbsp vegetable oil
– Salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Marinate chicken for at least 30 minutes.
2. Grill or bake chicken until cooked through, about 10-12 minutes.
3. Cook basmati rice according to package instructions.
4. In a large pan, sauté onions and garlic until softened. Add remaining sauce ingredients and simmer for 20-25 minutes.
5. Serve chicken on top of basmati rice, spooning some sauce over the top.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Victoria Sponge Cake with Jam and Cream
A quintessential British dessert, this Victoria sponge cake is a masterclass in simplicity and flavor. Moist sponges sandwiched together with sweet jam and a dollop of whipped cream – what more could you ask for?
Ingredients:
– 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs, at room temperature
– 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Raspberry or strawberry jam for filling
– Whipped cream for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and line two 8-inch (20cm) round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, eggs, butter, baking powder, and vanilla extract.
3. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth tops.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until sponges are golden brown and springy to the touch.
5. Allow cakes to cool in pans for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
6. Sandwich the jam and whipped cream between the two cooled sponges.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Bubble and Squeak with Fried Eggs
A classic British comfort food dish that combines leftover roasted potatoes and cabbage, crisped up with a fried egg on top.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups leftover roasted potato (cold)
– 1 cup leftover steamed cabbage (cold)
– 2 eggs
– 1 tablespoon butter or oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick pan or griddle over medium heat.
2. Add the cold potatoes and cabbage to the pan, breaking them up into smaller pieces as they crisp up (about 5 minutes).
3. Make two wells in the potato mixture and crack an egg into each well.
4. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the whites are set and yolks are cooked to desired doneness.
5. Serve hot, garnished with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Apple Crumble with Vanilla Ice Cream
There’s nothing like a classic apple crumble paired with creamy vanilla ice cream to satisfy your sweet tooth. This recipe is easy to make and perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 6-8 medium-sized apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold butter, cut into small pieces
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
– Vanilla ice cream, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced apples, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. Mix until apples are evenly coated.
4. Transfer apple mixture to a 9×9-inch baking dish.
5. In another bowl, mix together cold butter, rolled oats, brown sugar, and chopped walnuts (if using).
6. Top apple mixture with crumb topping.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until apples are tender and topping is golden brown.
8. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Steak and Kidney Pie with Puff Pastry
A classic British dish, Steak and Kidney Pie is a hearty comfort food that’s easy to make and perfect for a cold winter’s night. This recipe uses puff pastry to add a flaky, buttery crust to the rich beef filling.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef strips (steak and kidney)
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 puff pastry sheet, thawed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the beef strips in a pan until browned, then set aside.
3. In the same pan, cook the onions and garlic until softened.
4. Add the flour and stir to combine.
5. Gradually add the beef broth and tomato paste, stirring until thickened.
6. Return the beef to the pan and season with salt and pepper.
7. Roll out the puff pastry sheet and place it over a 9×13 inch baking dish.
8. Fill the dish with the beef mixture and brush the edges of the pastry with water.
9. Roll out the remaining pastry sheet and use to cover the pie, pressing edges to seal.
10. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the rich flavors of Britain with these classic recipes! From hearty stews like Beef and Guinness Stew and Lancashire Hotpot with Lamb, to comforting dishes like Shepherd’s Pie with Cheesy Topping and Bangers and Mash with Onion Gravy. Satisfy your sweet tooth with treats like Sticky Toffee Pudding with Custard and Apple Crumble with Vanilla Ice Cream. And don’t forget the iconic Fish and Chips and Toad in the Hole with Mustard Sauce! These beloved British recipes are sure to delight your taste buds.