9 Must-Try British Lunch Menu

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When it comes to food, British cuisine, particularly that of England, is an integral aspect of British culture. From sticky toffee pudding to Kidney pie and light meals like scotch egg and black pudding, the good news is that there are different flavours to taste when it comes to the country.

The depth of flavour, innovation, and history tied to British dishes can offer a unique gastronomical journey to anyone willing to explore. This blog will guide you to discover 9 must-try British dishes that will make you fall in love with the traditional British menu.

Whether you’re an ardent food enthusiast, looking for your kid’s school lunch menu, or simply curious about what Brits savour at lunchtime, this blog has something for you. So, let’s grab a pot of tea or orange juice if you prefer and read this fulfilling and delicious adventure together.

1) Fish and Chips

 

Often hailed as the national dish of the UK, Fish and Chips and fish fingers are iconic dishes of traditional British food. Since its inception in a small shop in London opened by Joseph Malin in 1860, this dish has resonated with the palates of the masses. It features golden-brown, battered, and deep-fried fish, traditionally cod, served alongside thick, crunchy chips. There’s a better way to eat this delicacy. You should eat this delightful combination with a side of mushy peas, a peculiar yet quintessential British addition.

Traditional British accompaniments

The pleasure of savouring Fish and Chips multiplies when accompanied by these traditional British garnishes:

• Malt Vinegar: Adds a tangy flavour to balance out the richness of the fried fish and chips.
• Salt: Enhances the taste of both the fish and potatoes. A liberal sprinkling is often recommended.
• Tartar Sauce: This creamy combination of mayo, capers, and pickles provides a perfect dipping companion to the crispy fish.

2) Sunday Roast

 

Transporting you straight to a cosy family gathering, the Sunday Roast exemplifies British homestyle cooking at its best. It typically includes a prime cut of roasted meat – beef, chicken, pork, or lamb, accentuated with glorious roast potatoes. This is a hearty meal to feast upon, where each bite evokes a warm, comforting sensation. The roast is served alongside an array of vegetables, and the star addition – Yorkshire Pudding, is a savoury delight that ties the entire platter together.

Popular roast variations

Over time, several variations of the Sunday Roast have evolved to suit different taste buds. Here, we present some of the popular ones:

3) Shepherd’s Pie and Cottage Pie

 

British cuisine brings two comforting dishes to the lunch table – shepherd’s pie and Cottage Pie. Revered for their hearty and gratifying nature, these pies combine minced meat and creamy mashed potatoes baked until they reach perfection. They differ in their choice of meat – shepherd’s pie uses minced lamb, while Cottage Pie features minced beef. Both pies make for a comforting lunch option, especially on chilly winter afternoons.

Key differences and similarities

Although Shepherd’s Pie and Cottage Pie share commonalities in their preparation, the meat choice sets them apart. Shepherd’s Pie celebrates the earthy flavours of minced lamb, while Cottage Pie uses robust beef to provide a hearty meal. That said, both these classic British pies are based on similar principles – a layer of flavourful meat crowned with creamy, well-seasoned mashed potatoes – making them immensely satisfying.

You can also read about the Potato pie recipe here.

4) Bangers and Mash

 

Bangers and Mash, another undeniable gem in British cuisine, is as satisfying to savour as it is fun to say. Referring to pork sausages and mashed potatoes, this simple yet flavourful dish often comes drenched in rich onion gravy. The ‘bangers’ owe their name to World War I times when sausages were often bulked up with water, causing them to burst or ‘bang’ during cooking. This comfort-laden meal, combined with peas and gravy, is considered good food and has earned its place in the annals of classic British food.

Best types of sausages to use

The juicy, flavourful bangers take centre stage in this dish. Some of the best types of sausages to use are:

• Cumberland Sausage: Renowned for its coiled shape and robust flavour.
• Lincolnshire Sausage: A peppery variant for those who prefer a touch of heat.
• Pork and Apple Sausage: Brings a delightful hint of sweetness, which pairs perfectly with the creamy mash.

5) Toad in the Hole

 

The British have a knack for names when it comes to their culinary creations, and Toad in the Hole is a perfect example. This unique dish, dating back to the 17th century, melds the enticing flavours of sausages and Yorkshire pudding batter into a soul-soothing meal. The succulent sausages, baked within the gloriously golden Yorkshire pudding provides a toothsome bite. Paired with gravy and some mashed potatoes or peas, this dish becomes a winter favourite, best enjoyed in a cosy British pub or at home.

Contrary to what its playful name might suggest, Toad in the Hole doesn’t feature any toads. It is, instead, a hearty mix of sausages and savoury Yorkshire Pudding. Interestingly, the original recipes often used other meats like steak instead of sausages. With time, sausages became the preferred choice, lending their rich flavour to the Yorkshire pudding batter and creating a creek of the dish we know and savour today.

6) Pie, Mash and Liquor

 

Emerging from East London’s cobbled streets, the Pie, Mash and Liquor is a testament to the humble and hearty nature of British Cuisine. This working-class meal is over 100 years old and features a delicious pie with a shortcrust pastry and minced beef filling alongside a generous serving of mash. Draped in liquor, a thin parsley-based sauce, rather than the traditional gravy, this dish promises a distinct flavour profile. To savour the real experience, drop by a pie and mash shop in the East End of London.

7) Ploughman’s Lunch

 

When thinking about British lunch menus, Ploughman’s Lunch surely deserves a mention. Named after the hardworking ploughmen (farmers) who would have enjoyed such a simple, portable meal during their lunch break in the fields, it features a selection of cold, easy-to-prepare items. It’s a fuss-free, flexible meal, typically comprising a piece of cheese, pickles, cold cuts of meat, and bread. Often enjoyed in pubs, it offers a fresh perspective on British cuisine, highlighting the beauty of simplicity.

Key components

Despite its rustic name, Ploughman’s Lunch was popularised in the 1960’s by the British Cheese Bureau as part of a marketing campaign. The key components include:

• Cheese: Usually a chunk of sharp Cheddar or Stilton.
• Cold Meats: Slices of ham or cold roast beef are common.
• Pickles: Brings a tangy, refreshing contrast to the rest of the ingredients.
• Fresh Bread: Often, a thick slice of baguette or a crusty roll.

8) Sandwiches

 

An innovation so brilliant it was named after its creator, the Earl of Sandwich, Sandwiches have since taken countless forms across cuisines. However, the British stood distinct in their interpretation of this simple concept. They seem to have an unspoken rule – the fillings should be as unique as possible. Classic British sandwiches are cherished treats and can also be consumed as English breakfast, with varieties such as cheese and pickle, ham and coleslaw, and the indulgent coronation chicken proving perennially popular lunchtime choices among school children and working adults alike.

Classic British sandwich varieties

Dive into the world of British Sandwiches, where every variety is deliciously different:

You can also read about easy sandwich recipes here.

9) Beans on Toast

 

Versatility defines Beans on Toast. It’s a staple childhood full English dish, a cheap student meal, a quick-fix dinner, and even a breakfast substitute. It’s as simple as the name suggests – baked beans rich with tomato sauce heaped onto warm, buttered toast. The addition of cheese paved the way for a deliciously savoury combo that strikes the perfect balance between simplicity and taste.

Creative toppings for Beans on Toast

Beyond the classic combination of baked beans and grated cheddar, there are countless ways to customise your Beans on Toast:

• BBQ Sauce: Add a spoonful to your beans for a smoky twist.
• Fried Egg: Top your toast with one to make it a more filling meal.
• Avocado Slices: For a healthy, creamy addition.

Also read: Homemade Baked beans.

Conclusion

The beautiful thing about British cuisine, showcased through these beloved lunchtime classics, lies not just in its varied richness. It also resonates profoundly with British history and culture, evolving through eras while maintaining its traditional underpinnings.

Each dish provides a peek into the past, echoing stories of times gone by, regions renowned for specific ingredients and communities’ innovative ways to make simple food wholesome and delightful. So, whether it’s the iconic Fish and Chips, reminiscent of seaside chip shops, the comforting Shepherd’s pie, which warms your soul on a cold winter day, or even a sandwich filled with the Brits’ unique combinations, these dishes form integral facets of a rich and layered cuisine. They might seem straightforward in their composition, but it’s in their simplicity that their true appeal lies, giving Britain’s food culture its unique identity.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are British lunches typically heavier or lighter than other cuisines?

British lunches can range from the light and refreshing Ploughman’s Lunch to the more hearty options like Sunday Roast and Fish and Chips. Resultantly, it overlaps between lighter and heavier meals, offering something for every palate and hunger level.

What is the most popular lunch meal across the UK?

Fish and Chips, arguably considered the national dish, hold a special place during the British lunch hour. However, sandwiches, owing to their convenience and variety, are also a popular lunchtime choice across the UK.

What is a traditional dish included in a British lunch menu?

You’d typically find Fish and Chips, Bangers and Mash, and Shepherd’s Pie prevalent on a traditional British lunch menu. Cold meals like the Ploughman’s Lunch and classic sandwiches also find their way onto the list, harmoniously blending variety and tradition.