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British junk food you should try before you die
When it comes to indulgent and delicious junk food, many people think of America as the reigning champion. But if you venture across the seas to Great Britain, you’ll discover a vibrant and mouth-watering selection of high-calorie treats that are sure to satisfy any craving. From deep-fried delicacies to savory snacks, the UK offers a variety of iconic dishes that you simply must try. Join us on a foodie tour of Great Britain as we explore some of the most irresistible dishes, including regional favorites and all-time must-haves.
Yorkshire Pudding Wraps: A British Popover Upgrade
One dish that has become a sensation in the UK is the Yorkshire Pudding Wrap. Yorkshire puddings are the British equivalent of popovers – fluffy, crispy and perfect when smothered in gravy. Originally served as an appetizer, Yorkshire puddings were used to fill people up before the main meal. Nowadays, vendors in York and Leeds have taken this classic dish to the next level by using Yorkshire puddings as wraps. These wraps are filled with meat, gravy and traditional vegetables, making them ideal for hangover snacks or hearty lunches. For those looking for a unique twist, Hull eateries even offer Yorkshire pudding pizza. It’s a must for any junk food enthusiast.
British Parmo: a step beyond chicken parm
If you’re a fan of chicken Parmesan, then you must try British Parmo. This Teesside late-night delicacy consists of a breaded, fried chicken fillet that is smothered in bechamel sauce, topped with grated cheddar cheese, and then grilled to perfection. The dish originated in 1958 when Nicos Harris, owner of The American Grill restaurant in Middlesbrough, invented this delicious snack. British Parmo has since become a takeaway staple in the Teesside area and is the perfect treat after a night out. The locals love it so much that they have even created the World Parmo Championships to celebrate this culinary delight.
Mars Deep-Fried Bars: A Scottish Delight
When it comes to deep-fried treats, Scottish chip shops have taken indulgence to a whole new level with the deep-fried Mars bar. Unlike the American version, the British Mars bar has nougat, caramel and a chocolate coating. Scottish chip shops dredge and deep-fry the Mars bar, resulting in a sweet and crunchy snack that’s gooey on the inside. While it may not be the healthiest option, the deep-fried Mars bar is a unique experience that is well worth trying. Legend has it that this treat originated in Stonehaven, Scotland, in 1995, when a dare led to the deep-frying of a Mars bar. Since then it has become a popular snack across the UK.
British Orange Chips: A twist on battered chips
While fish and chips are a classic British takeaway, the Midlands, specifically the Black Country, has its own twist on the traditional chip. Enter orange chips – crispy, warm and brightly colored. These fried snacks get their distinctive look by being coated in batter before being fried to perfection. The recipe for the batter is a closely guarded secret, and Major’s Chip Shop is one of the few places where you can enjoy this unique treat. The Orange Chips are a must-try for anyone looking to explore the diverse range of British junk food.
Pie and Mash: British comfort food
Pie and mash is a quintessential British comfort food that has been enjoyed since the 19th century. Originating in London’s East End, the dish consists of a minced beef pie served with a side of creamy mashed potatoes and topped with a parsley sauce known as liquor. While traditional pie shops still serve the original version, modern eateries offer a wide range of pie fillings and extras to make your meal special. Whether you’re a fan of classic flavors like leek and potato or prefer something more adventurous like chicken and mushroom, pie and mash is a satisfying and hearty option for any junk food lover.
Greggs sausage rolls: A British Institution
Greggs, a bakery chain that started in Newcastle, has become a beloved British institution over the years. While they offer a variety of baked goods and sandwiches, one of their most popular items is the sausage roll. This savory snack features seasoned sausage meat wrapped in puff pastry and baked to golden perfection. It has gained a cult following in the UK, and in 2019, Greggs introduced a vegan version to widespread acclaim. Made with a Quorn filling, the vegan sausage roll offers the same delicious pastry experience for those following a plant-based diet. Whether you choose the classic or vegan version, a Greggs sausage roll is a must for any junk food enthusiast.
Scotch Eggs: A protein-packed delight
Scotch eggs are a popular British snack that combines protein and taste in a delightful way. These tasty treats consist of hard-boiled eggs wrapped in sausage meat, coated in breadcrumbs and deep-fried until golden and crispy. The contrast between the soft boiled egg and the savory sausage creates a wonderful combination of textures and flavors. Scotch eggs are often enjoyed as a picnic snack or as part of a traditional pub lunch. They are also a great option for a quick and satisfying meal on the go.
Bakewell Tart: A sweet slice of Britain
For those with a sweet tooth, the Bakewell Tart is a must-try dessert. This traditional British pastry comes from the town of Bakewell in Derbyshire. It features a buttery shortcake pastry filled with a layer of jam, usually raspberry, and a rich almond frangipane filling. The tart is then baked until golden and topped with a drizzle of icing. The combination of sweet jam, nutty frangipane and buttery pastry creates a heavenly dessert that pairs perfectly with a cup of tea. Bakewell tart is a classic British treat not to be missed.
Conclusion
British junk food offers a tantalizing array of flavors and indulgent treats to satisfy any craving. From Yorkshire pudding wraps to deep-fried Mars bars, each dish has its own unique twist and story. Whether you’re a fan of savory or sweet, there’s something for everyone. So if you have the opportunity to explore British cuisine, be sure to indulge in these iconic junk food delicacies. They are a true reflection of the vibrant and delicious food culture that Britain has to offer.
FAQS
Some must-try British junk foods include Yorkshire pudding wraps, British Parmo, fried Mars bars, British orange crisps, pie and mash, Greggs sausage rolls, Scotch eggs, and Bakewell cake.
Where can I find Yorkshire Pudding Wraps?
Yorkshire pudding wraps can be found in York and Leeds in the UK. They are often served with meat, gravy and traditional vegetables, making them a popular choice for hangover snacks or heavy lunches.
What is a British Parmo?
A British Parmo is a breaded fried chicken fillet that is smothered in bechamel sauce, topped with grated cheddar cheese, and then grilled. It is a Teesside late night delicacy and is a popular takeaway in the area.
What is a fried Mars bar?
A fried Mars bar is a Scottish delicacy that involves battering and deep-frying a Mars bar. The result is a sweet and crunchy snack with a gooey center. It is commonly found in Scottish chip shops and is a unique treat to try.
What are Orange Chips?
Orange chips are a twist on the traditional British chip found in the Midlands, particularly the Black Country. They are crispy, warm and brightly colored chips that are coated in batter before being fried. The batter recipe is a closely guarded secret and they are a speciality at places like Major’s chip shop.
What is a Bakewell tart?
A Bakewell tart is a traditional British pastry that originated in the town of Bakewell in Derbyshire. It consists of a buttery shortcrust pastry filled with a layer of jam, usually raspberry, and a rich almond frangipane filling. The tart is baked until golden and topped with a drizzle of icing, creating a delicious sweet treat.