“A nation’s favourite foods can offer insight into its history and culture, and Britain is no exception. Whether you’re a visitor seeking the best British dishes to try on your holiday, or a native interested in recreating the classics in your own kitchen, here are the top ten British dishes to try.
1. Chicken tikka masala
Officially the national dish of Britain, chicken tikka masala is said to have been the invention of a Bengali chef, Ali Ahmed Aslam, who was working in Glasgow. A customer returned his dish for being too dry, so Ali improvised and the result was the now hugely popular tikka masala, which is served to perfection in some of the best restaurants in Kensington.
2. Fish and chips
A seaside must-have, fish and chips (preferably wrapped in newspaper and eaten at the coast) is quintessential British food. There’s something delightful about soft cod or haddock enveloped in crunchy batter with crispy chips – and the best places serve their fish fresh to order.
3. Roast Dinner
Whether it’s a humble home-cooked roast or a fancy one with all the trimmings, no visitor to the UK should miss out on this dish. Traditionally a meal that was eaten after the Sunday church service, it’s still a cornerstone of British life, with many still sitting down to a roast every week. Most gastro pubs offer a roast on Sundays, so they’re easy to find wherever you are.
4. Afternoon Tea
Afternoon tea is another great British tradition, although these days most people view it as an occasional treat. Finger sandwiches are served with a variety of fillings, alongside scones and cakes – and of course, a pot of tea. London is the place to enjoy the most delicious afternoon tea, with some of the best restaurants in South Kensington offering modern twists on this classic.
5. Sheperd’s Pie
Hearty and filling, shepherd’s pie originated in the north of England, and is made from minced lamb and vegetables with a topping of creamy mashed potato. As a homey, comforting food it’s best eaten around the kitchen table with your family.
6. Steak Pie
Pies of another kind are popular in Britain. Traditionally meat such as beef steak was combined with gravy and encased in buttery pastry, and steak pie still appears on many a pub menu. Other popular pie fillings include chicken, venison, and cheese and onion.
7. Eton Mess
A dessert named for the prestigious Eton College, where it was first served in the late 19th century, Eton mess combines summer berries with meringue and cream. It’s simple to make and ideal for summer barbecues or picnics in the park.
8. Bread and butter pudding
A dessert named for the prestigious Eton College, where it was first served in the late 19th century, Eton mess combines summer berries with meringue and cream. It’s simple to make and ideal for summer barbecues or picnics in the park.
If you’re looking to enjoy the perfect chicken tikka masala among London’s best restaurants, Kensington based Little India London is the place to go. With food that remains faithful to the culinary traditions of the Indian subcontinent, we offer uncompromising flavour in every dish.”
