When you think of the UK, what is the first thing that comes to mind? Probably not the country's delicious food. I'm here to say that needs to change. The Brits are the masters of holiday comfort foods. Here are ten you should try this holiday season (PSA: a lot of them are pies):
1. Clotted Cream and Scones
In my humble opinion, if you haven't had clotted cream you haven't lived. It is essentially a better, less healthy version of butter that tastes like heaven. Also, the British version of a scone is more like an American biscuit, but better.
2. Mince Pie
I still can't tell you exactly what goes into a mince pie, but I can tell you that they are delicious. Its like having a miniature mixture of an amazing fruit tart and pie, with extra spices mixed in. I can't do it justice in words, just believe me and try one.
3. Mulled Wine
Okay, so this one wasn't invented by the Brits - it actually dates back to Ancient Greek times - but it has become so associated with the UK I had to include it in this list. Mulled wine is basically sweeter, more citrusy wine heated to warm your body and soul. It is delicious and the perfect holiday treat.
4. Shepherd's Pie
Shepherd's pie is probably the most quintessentially British food you could possibly ask for. It includes potatoes (in the topping), meat, and peas in a wonderfully rich and delicious combination. It's the perfect meal for a bleak, cold winter day.
5. Cornish Pasties
For starters, "pasty" one of the most British words in existence. Cornish Pasties are also one of the more delicious treats to come out of the island nation. Like Shepherd's pie, it includes a filling of potatoes, meat, and vegetables, but is wrapped in a pastry rather than a pie. If you want to learn more, the Cornish Pasty Association exists, and I would suggest looking at their website.
6. Steak and Ale Pie
Similar to the two previous foods, Steak and Ale pie combines the things Brits do best: meat and pastries. Steak and Ale pie is simpler than its predecessors but is equally delicious.
7. Battenberg Cake
Battenberg Cake was invented for the marriage of Victoria of Hesse-Darmsadt (Queen Victoria's granddaughter), to the German prince Louis of Battenberg in 1884. People liked it so much that it has been a British mainstay since. It is essentially four sponge cakes covered in jam and put together and then covered in marzipan. Yum.
8. Christmas/Plum Pudding
9. Roast
Okay, this may seem like a cop-out, but anyone who has had a British Sunday roast will know that it is distinctly different from what we make in America. I can't tell you how or why, but it is just better.
10. Crumpets
Ever had an English Muffin? Picture that, but twice as thick and five times as fluffy. That's a crumpet, the best thing to happen (before?) sliced bread. If you're looking for a variation on toast this holiday season, look no further than the crumpet. They're amazing with butter, jam, marmalade, eggs, avocado... basically anything.
Cheers, Britain!
