Fill up on these five fab British foods
Any athlete knows the importance of fuelling up on good grub before competing. Likewise, spectators should make the most of their meals if they want to cheer the loudest in the crowd. Whether you're in Britain for business, pleasure or looking for Olympic glory, there are hundreds of delicious local dishes that you'd be mad to miss out on. This guide will introduce you to five quintessential British treats, or you can click here for more foodie inspiration.
Get a taste for London's East End with jellied eels
Exactly what it says on the tin, this traditional English delicacy may not be the most appetising to look at. However, if you're brave enough to have a taste, then you can consider yourself a true Cockney.
Eels were an abundant source of food for London back in the 18th century, thanks to a large population of these slippery characters living in the Thames. Although not so popular now, this dish is still closely associated with the East End.
Make your midday meal a ploughman's lunch
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A sure-fire find on any pub menu, the ploughman's lunch is a wholesome selection of cheeses, crusty bread, meats and pickles. If you're planning a picnic then these simple ingredients will definitely keep you going till dinner. Create your own by buying everything separately or find gourmet gift baskets with Forman & Field.
Bangers and mash; a firm family favourite
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Bangers and mash make a hearty meal, perfect for any time of year. A drop of milk and knob of butter in the potatoes creates a gloriously creamy texture – the perfect accompaniment to succulent sausages.
You can't go wrong with simple pork and herbs but many butchers are now producing more unusual flavours. Sink your teeth into tomato and mozzarella or add some spice with chilli and ginger.
Try a roast dinner on Sunday
Every Sunday, families up and down the country are tucking into a scrumptious roast dinner. Featuring platefuls of meat like beef or lamb, crisp roast potatoes, perfectly cooked veg and a Yorkshire pudding or two, this delicious dinner is a wonderful way to round off the week.
Many pubs and restaurants offer a carvery on Sunday so look around for the juiciest slice of meat and crunchiest crackling.
Satisfy your sweet tooth with a Victoria Sandwich
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With lashings of cream and sweet strawberry jam squashed between light layers of sponge, the Victoria Sandwich is one of Britain's simplest but finest cake creations. A hot cup of tea on the side is all you need to accompany this tasty treat, ideal for a sophisticated afternoon snack.
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