Are you ready to taste the authentic flavors of Britain? Look no further! This collection of 20 delicious and traditional Britscookin recipes will transport your taste buds across the pond. From classic comfort foods like fish and chips and shepherd’s pie, to international twists like chicken tikka masala and Welsh rarebit, there’s something for everyone.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the heart of Britain, where traditional cooking meets modern flair. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or just looking for new inspiration in the kitchen, these recipes are sure to delight. So grab your apron and let’s get cooking!
Classic British Fish and Chips
A timeless British favorite, fish and chips is a comforting treat that’s easy to make and always a crowd pleaser. With its crispy batter, tender fish, and fluffy chips (fries), this recipe is sure to become a staple in your household.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cod or haddock fillets, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup beer, chilled
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and cut into chips (fries)
– Cooking oil for frying
– Malt vinegar and lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, beer, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip fish pieces into batter, letting excess drip off.
4. Fry battered fish in batches until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
5. Cut potatoes into chips (fries) and fry in separate hot oil until crispy, about 3-4 minutes. Drain on paper towels.
6. Serve fish and chips hot with malt vinegar and lemon wedges.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Traditional Shepherd’s Pie
This classic comfort food dish is a hearty combination of ground meat, vegetables, and mashed potatoes, perfect for a cozy evening meal. With just a few simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, you’ll be enjoying a satisfying and filling meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground 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
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 3-4 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 1/4 cup butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Brown ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add onion, garlic, peas and carrots, beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and thyme to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Simmer mixture for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Prepare mashed potatoes by boiling chopped potatoes until tender. Drain and add butter, then mash until smooth.
6. Transfer meat mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with mashed potatoes.
7. Bake in preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the potatoes are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Creamy Chicken Tikka Masala
Experience the rich flavors of Indian cuisine with this creamy and aromatic chicken dish. This recipe is a twist on the classic, making it easier to prepare at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1 cup plain yogurt
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 2 tsp garam masala powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground cardamom
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala, cumin, cinnamon, cardamom, and salt.
2. Add the chicken to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade and cook until browned, about 6-7 minutes per side.
4. Reduce heat to medium-low and add onions, garlic, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth. Simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the sauce thickens slightly.
5. Stir in heavy cream and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Authentic Beef Wellington
Authentic Beef Wellington Recipe
Summary: A classic French dish, Beef Wellington is a show-stopping main course that combines tenderloin beef with mushrooms, herbs, and puff pastry. This recipe yields a perfectly cooked, flavorful filet wrapped in flaky crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1.5-2 pound) beef tenderloin
– 1/4 cup mushroom duxelles (see note)
– 2 tablespoons butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 puff pastry sheet, thawed
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the beef tenderloin with salt, pepper, and thyme.
3. In a small bowl, mix together mushroom duxelles, butter, and garlic.
4. Place the beef tenderloin in the center of the puff pastry sheet, leaving a 1-inch border around it.
5. Spoon the mushroom mixture evenly over the beef.
6. Roll out the remaining puff pastry to fit the top of the beef.
7. Brush the edges with water and place the rolled pastry on top of the beef.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare.
Note: Mushroom duxelles is a mixture of sautéed mushrooms, onions, and herbs. You can use store-bought or make your own using equal parts of sautéed mushrooms and finely chopped onion, seasoned with salt, pepper, and thyme.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Homemade Scones with Clotted Cream
Start your day off right with these flaky, buttery scones and a dollop of rich clotted cream. Perfect for a breakfast or afternoon tea treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 3/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 egg, beaten
– Clotted cream and jam for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add cold butter and use a pastry blender or fingers to work into a crumbly mixture.
4. Pour in heavy cream and beaten egg; stir until dough forms.
5. Turn dough out onto a floured surface and gently knead 2-3 times.
6. Pat dough into a circle, about 1 inch thick.
7. Cut into wedges and place on prepared baking sheet.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Serve: Split warm scones in half and top with clotted cream and your favorite jam. Enjoy!
Bangers and Mash with Onion Gravy
A hearty British classic, Bangers and Mash with Onion Gravy is a comforting dish that’s sure to become a favorite. Sausages and mashed potatoes are paired with a rich onion gravy for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 pork sausages (bangers)
– 3-4 large potatoes
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup chicken or beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Boil the potatoes until tender, then drain and mash with butter.
3. Cook the sausages in a pan over medium heat until browned, about 5-7 minutes per side.
4. In a separate pan, cook the sliced onion over low heat for 15-20 minutes or until caramelized.
5. Add broth, tomato paste, salt, and pepper to the onion mixture. Simmer for 5 minutes.
6. Serve the sausages with mashed potatoes and spoon the onion gravy over the top.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Ploughman’s Lunch with Pickles and Cheese
A simple yet satisfying snack that combines the richness of cheese, tanginess of pickles, and crumbliness of bread.
Ingredients:
– 1 round loaf of artisanal bread (such as sourdough or ciabatta)
– 2-3 slices of strong cheddar or farmhouse-style cheese
– 1/4 cup of thinly sliced dill pickles
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Slice the bread into 1-inch thick rounds.
3. Place the slices on a baking sheet and toast in the oven for 5-7 minutes, or until lightly browned.
4. Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool slightly.
5. Arrange the toasted bread slices on a plate with the cheese and pickles.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (including toasting time)
Rich and Hearty Lancashire Hotpot
A classic Northern English dish that’s perfect for a cold winter’s night. This comforting hotpot is packed with tender lamb, potatoes, and onions, all wrapped up in a rich gravy.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb lamb shoulder or neck, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 3-4 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and sliced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or casserole dish, brown the lamb in a little oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the potatoes, onion, garlic, beef broth, tomato paste, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
4. Cover the dish with a tight-fitting lid and transfer to the preheated oven.
5. Cook for 2-3 hours, or until the lamb is tender and the potatoes are cooked through.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Perfect Yorkshire Pudding
Yorkshire puddings are a classic British accompaniment to roast beef, perfect for special occasions or everyday meals. This recipe yields a light, airy, and crispy pudding that will impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 eggs
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together the flour and eggs until smooth.
3. Gradually add the milk, whisking until fully incorporated.
4. Add the salt and whisk until combined.
5. Pour the batter into a greased 12-cup muffin tin or a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Place the muffin tin or baking dish in the oven and immediately reduce the temperature to 375°F (190°C).
7. Cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the puddings are puffed and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Steak and Kidney Pie
This classic British dish is a comforting blend of tender steak, rich kidney filling, and flaky pastry. Perfect for a cozy evening meal or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef steak (cut into 1-inch cubes)
– 1 cup beef kidney, diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cups puff pastry, thawed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high. Add steak and cook until browned, about 3 minutes. Remove from heat.
3. In the same skillet, add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 2 minutes.
4. Add kidney, broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a large rectangle. Spoon filling onto one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2-inch border. Fold other half over filling; press edges to seal.
6. Brush pastry with beaten egg for glazing. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Sticky Toffee Pudding with Custard
This classic British dessert is a masterclass in textures and flavors, featuring a rich, sticky toffee pudding topped with a creamy custard. The perfect treat for any occasion!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) dates, pitted
– 1/2 cup (100g) light brown sugar
– 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (60g) unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– Custard:
+ 1 cup (240ml) whole milk
+ 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
+ 3 large egg yolks
– Toffee sauce:
+ 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, melted
+ 1/2 cup (120g) brown sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine dates, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Add heavy cream and cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until sugar dissolves and mixture thickens (about 10 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and stir in melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Pour into prepared baking dish.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
5. Prepare custard by whisking together milk, sugar, and egg yolks. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened (about 10 minutes).
6. Remove from heat and stir in melted butter. Let cool slightly before pouring over warm pudding.
7. Serve with toffee sauce (melted butter and brown sugar mixture) drizzled on top.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes
Cornish Pasty with Beef and Vegetables
This traditional British recipe combines tender beef, crisp vegetables, and flaky pastry to create a hearty and satisfying snack or meal. Perfect for picnics, lunches, or as a comforting treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef (brisket or round), diced
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, potatoes)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup cold water
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a pan, cook beef and onion until browned, then add garlic and mixed vegetables.
3. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
4. Place beef mixture in the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
5. Fold the pastry over the filling, pressing edges to seal.
6. Brush with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until pastry is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Scotch Eggs with Mustard Dip
Elevate your snack game with this simple yet satisfying recipe that combines the comfort of hard-boiled eggs and sausage with a tangy mustard dip.
Ingredients:
– 6 large eggs, hard-boiled and peeled
– 1 pound pork sausage (such as breakfast links), casings removed
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup whole-grain mustard
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Wrap each egg in a tablespoon of sausage, making sure to cover the entire egg.
3. Roll the wrapped eggs in flour, shaking off excess.
4. Place the coated eggs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the sausage is cooked through and the eggs are warmed.
6. Meanwhile, mix the mustard with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve the Scotch Eggs warm with the Mustard Dip on the side.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Victoria Sponge Cake with Jam and Cream
This iconic British cake is a timeless favorite, consisting of two light and fluffy sponge cakes sandwiched together with sweet jam and creamy buttercream. With its delicate texture and rich flavors, it’s the perfect treat for any occasion.
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
– Jam of your choice (raspberry or strawberry work well)
– Buttercream frosting (see below for recipe)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease two 8-inch (20cm) round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and baking powder.
3. In a large bowl, beat eggs and sugar until light and fluffy. Add softened butter and mix until combined.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to egg mixture and mix until smooth.
5. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Allow cakes to cool completely before sandwiching with jam and cream.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Roast Beef with Horseradish Sauce
Elevate your roast beef game with this simple recipe that pairs perfectly tender meat with a tangy and creamy horseradish sauce.
Ingredients:
– 3-pound beef roast (such as prime rib or top round)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon salt
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup horseradish sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Season the roast with olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
3. Roast the beef for 15 minutes per pound, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
4. While the roast is cooking, mix together horseradish sauce, garlic, and butter in a small bowl.
5. Once the roast is cooked, let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing thinly against the grain.
6. Serve with the horseradish sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2-3 hours, depending on the size of the roast and desired level of doneness.
Toad in the Hole with Sausages
Classic Toad in the Hole with Sausages Recipe
Toad in the Hole is a comforting British dish that combines sausages cooked inside a bed of Yorkshire pudding batter, perfect for a hearty breakfast or brunch. This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of pork sausages (4-6 sausages)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 eggs
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking oil or butter for greasing the dish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, eggs, and milk until smooth.
3. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking oil or butter.
4. Arrange the sausages in the prepared baking dish, leaving some space between each sausage.
5. Pour the Yorkshire pudding batter over the sausages, making sure they are fully covered.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the Yorkshire pudding is golden brown and puffed up.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Eton Mess with Fresh Berries
Eton Mess is a classic British dessert that’s as easy to make as it is to devour. This recipe adds a burst of freshness with mixed berries, making it perfect for warm weather.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 12-16 meringue cookies (store-bought or homemade)
– 2 cups mixed fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– Whipped cream and additional berries for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form.
2. Add the granulated sugar and continue whipping until stiff peaks form.
3. Break the meringue cookies into small pieces and fold them into the whipped cream.
4. Gently stir in the fresh berries.
5. Spoon the mixture into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: None! Just assemble and chill.
Enjoy your light and luscious Eton Mess with Fresh Berries!
Bubble and Squeak with Fried Eggs
Bubble and squeak, a traditional British dish, gets a breakfast boost with the addition of crispy fried eggs. This comforting brunch recipe is perfect for using up leftover roast vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked potatoes and cabbage (or other roasted vegetables)
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 2 eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives
Instructions:
1. Heat the butter in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the cooked potatoes and cabbage (or roasted vegetables) to the skillet. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
3. Crack the eggs into the skillet and cook until the whites are set and the yolks are cooked to your desired doneness.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped fresh herbs, if desired.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Welsh Rarebit with a Beer Cheese Sauce
This classic Welsh dish gets a modern twist with the addition of a rich and creamy beer cheese sauce, perfect for elevating your snack game.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups toasted bread (white or whole wheat)
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup beer cheese sauce (see below)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Beer Cheese Sauce:
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup beer (any type, e.g., lager or ale)
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Butter the toasted bread on both sides.
3. In a small saucepan, combine beer cheese sauce ingredients. Whisk until smooth and heated through.
4. Pour the beer cheese sauce over the bread slices.
5. Sprinkle grated cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Apple Crumble with Vanilla Ice Cream
This classic dessert is perfect for any occasion, combining the sweetness of apples with the crunch of oatmeal and the creaminess of vanilla ice cream.
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 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1 scoop vanilla ice cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced apples, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Toss until apples are evenly coated.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together rolled oats, brown sugar, and cold butter until crumbly.
4. Pour apple mixture into a 9×9-inch baking dish and top with crumble topping.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until apples are tender and topping is golden brown.
6. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Discover the authentic flavors of Britain with these 20 mouth-watering recipes. From classic comfort foods like Fish and Chips and Shepherd’s Pie to international twists like Chicken Tikka Masala and Beef Wellington, there’s something for every palate. Indulge in homemade scones with clotted cream, savory Bangers and Mash, and hearty Lancashire Hotpot. Don’t miss sweet treats like Sticky Toffee Pudding and Victoria Sponge Cake, or try your hand at traditional dishes like Steak and Kidney Pie and Cornish Pasties. These recipes are sure to transport you to the heart of Britain.
