Keith Lee’s Culinary Journey: Discover the Best of British Food Beyond Baked Beans!

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Influencer Keith Lee tried a peculiar meal consisting of a baked potato, baked beans, and tuna, which might have given him and his audience the idea that British cuisine is less than appealing. Had he sampled the finest British dishes instead, his opinion would likely be far more favorable.

There’s no need for me to elaborate on why a baked potato (or jacket potato) loaded with beans and tuna seems like an unforgivable culinary mistake. The SpudBros aren’t to blame, as a perfectly cooked spud – hot, steamy, with crispy skin and soft, fluffy insides – is truly a sight to behold. I may not be fond of cold fillings, but tuna can be acceptable. However, it’s those who insist on ordering it with both beans and tuna that are causing the confusion here.

It’s quite common among the British to combine foods that might not typically go together. I believe it’s due to a preference for value over taste, which is why you’ll find people with towering carveries or those who order a little bit of everything when getting a takeaway curry, as humorously portrayed in the sitcom Gavin & Stacey.

Keith, if you wish to savor the essence of British cuisine before leaving, these are some dishes you shouldn’t miss!

Fish & Chips

Americans tend to prepare their fries differently than what we might consider proper chips, as described by soccer player Cole Palmer as “chippy chips.” I’m not referring to potato crisps in this context (as I myself have discovered that asking for chips in America can result in a bowl of ready salted). Instead, I’m talking about thick, plump fries, with a crispy exterior and a fluffy interior.

Enjoy a scrumptious combination of fish (either flaky haddock or cod) wrapped in golden, crispy batter for an unbeatable coastal meal. While this might be seen as heresy by some Brits, I personally wouldn’t dream of covering it with gravy or curry sauce (I shudder at the thought of soggy fries). However, a tangy tartare sauce or a dash of salt and vinegar are more than sufficient for flavor enhancement – and don’t forget a side of creamy mushy peas!

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Pie

Our specialty lies in the realm of pies, both savory and sweet. However, I’d like to focus mainly on the savory side today. Imagine a steak and kidney pie, encased in suet crust or pastry, or a splendid fish pie, a medley of smoked and unsmoked fish bathed in parsley sauce, crowned with creamy mashed potatoes. My personal favorite is the Shepherd’s Pie, crafted from minced lamb and mash. There’s hardly anything more satisfying than a pie – even a Balti pie during a soccer game is a delightful treat.

Curry

Discussing Balti dishes, one of the finest foreign influences on Britain is the cuisine originating from India, Bangladesh, and Pakistan. The UK’s first curry house emerged in 1810, and their numbers increased significantly as numerous South Asian immigrants arrived in the UK post World War 2. Although its popularity has slightly waned, there are entire streets in Manchester and London filled with curry houses. Despite my earlier caution about mixing various foods, ordering a Thali will provide you with an assortment of dishes in small containers together with rice, naan bread, and pickles.

Afternoon Tea

In the United Kingdom, an afternoon tradition involves visiting a luxurious hotel or upscale cafe to enjoy a tall stack of sandwiches and pastries. While Keith Lee might opt for a colossal Cuban or New York Pastrami sandwich bursting with meat, cheese, and pickles instead of a delicate cucumber sandwich, the true allure of afternoon tea lies in the desserts. Delightful choices include a Victoria Sponge cake filled with cream and jam, or a scone smothered in clotted cream and jam – essentially anything with cream and jam!

Rhubarb Crumble and Custard

Besides our renowned hot pies, we excel in delightful hot puddings (let’s skip the dessert terminology). Indulge in traditional treats such as steamed treacle sponge, apple and blackberry pie, or a fruit crumble to round off your meal before venturing into the chill. Among these, my personal favorite is rhubarb crumble – the tangy, soft-stewed fruit nestled under a crispy crumble made with butter, flour, sugar, and a touch of ground nuts for an extra kick. Enjoy it with authentic custard – think rich, yellow, heavenly goodness, not the watered-down, vanilla-speckled fancy version.

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2025-02-26 15:19