English Foods That Tourists May Want to Avoid Due to Their Disgusting Nature
English cuisine is a fascinating blend of history and diversity, but, like any culinary tradition, it has its share of dishes that may raise eyebrows. For adventurous tourists eager to explore the local food scene, we have highlighted some English delicacies that may challenge your uninitiated palate.
Black Pudding
Black pudding, or blood sausage, is a popular English breakfast item made from pork blood, fat, oatmeal, and spices. It has been a staple in English cuisine since the Middle Ages. It has a rich and savory flavor that pairs well with traditional breakfast items like bacon and eggs.
Jellied Eels
Jellied eels are a traditional East London dish from the 18th century. As the name suggests, it consists of pieces of eel cooked in a savory jelly made from fish stock and spices. While it may sound unappealing, jellied eels have a unique texture and flavor that some people find surprisingly enjoyable.
Mushy Peas
Mushy peas are a popular side dish in England, often served with fish and chips. They are made by soaking dried marrowfat peas overnight and then boiling them until they become mushy. Mushy peas have a delicious flavor that complements the crispy texture of fish and chips.
Haggis
Haggis is a traditional Scottish dish that has also become popular in England. It is made from sheep’s offal (heart, liver, and lungs), minced with onion, oatmeal, suet, and spices, and cooked inside a sheep’s stomach. Eating offal may be off-putting to some people, but haggis has a rich and savory flavor that is worth trying.
Marmite
Marmite is a thick, dark brown spread made from yeast extract. It has a distinct and intense flavor that triggers divisive opinions. Some people love it as a savory breakfast spread, while others find its taste too overpowering. Marmite is a beloved British staple, and trying it is essential to experiencing English cuisine.
Bubble and Squeak
Bubble and squeak is a classic English dish from pan-fried leftovers, typically from Sunday roast dinner. It consists of mashed potatoes and vegetables, like cabbage or Brussels sprouts, mixed and fried until crispy. Despite its unappealing name, bubble and squeak is a delicious and comforting dish.
Stargazy Pie
Stargazy pie is a traditional Cornish dish featuring pilchards baked in a pastry crust with potatoes, eggs, and bacon. The unique “stargazing” presentation, with fish heads peeking out of the crust, may be unsettling to some. However, with its delicious flavor, this delightful pie offers a must-try experience for adventurous food lovers.
Laverbread
Laverbread is a Welsh dish made from boiled and pureed seaweed. It has a dark, slimy appearance that may not be appealing, but its flavor is rich and salty, similar to oysters or caviar. Laverbread is traditionally served as a breakfast spread on toast or enjoyed with bacon and eggs.
Potted Shrimp
Potted shrimp is a popular English dish from small brown shrimps cooked in spiced butter and preserved in a pot. It has a distinctive texture, with the shrimp being soft and mushy, and is usually served as a sandwich spread or on toast. Potted shrimp may not be for everyone, but it is worth trying for its unique flavor.
Eccles Cake
Eccles cake is a sweet pastry from Eccles in Manchester. It consists of flaky pastry filled with currants, sugar, and spices and baked until golden brown. While it may seem like a simple treat, Eccles cakes have a delicious buttery flavor, making them a local favorite.
Pork Scratchings
Pork scratchings, or pork rinds, are a popular snack in English pubs. It is made from salted and deep-fried pig skin and has a crispy texture and salty flavor. Their high fat and sodium content may not appeal to health-conscious tourists, and the rubbery texture of unfried pig skin can also be off-putting to some.
Brawn
Brawn, or head cheese, is made from pig’s head meat and jelly. The meat is cooked until it falls off the bone and mixed with spices and herbs before being cooled in its gelatinous stock. Brawn may not sound appetizing to some tourists, but it has a surprisingly delicious flavor that showcases the creative use of all animal parts.
Kedgeree
Kedgeree is a dish with Indian origins that has become popular in England. It comprises flaked smoked fish, rice, boiled eggs, and spices like curry powder and turmeric. While its appearance may not appeal to some, kedgeree has a delicious and unique flavor reflecting the country’s colonial history.
Bovril
Bovril is a thick and salty beef extract that has been a staple in English cuisine since the late 19th century. It was initially marketed as a nourishing beverage for soldiers, but it gained popularity as a spread for toast and sandwiches. Bovril may not be everyone’s favorite, but its rich and savory flavor remains a favorite among Brits.
