Chips
You may have heard of the iconic fish and chips. In England, they call what we know as French fries, chips. Chips will regularly come as fried and sliced potato wedges. And England calls what regular chips are to us (such as Lay’s potato chips), crisps.
When ordering fish and chips, the fish you receive will be fried, not grilled.
Porridge
When Americans hear porridge, they will most likely think of the story of Goldilocks and the Three Bears. England calls what we know as oatmeal, porridge, and it is quite tasty. Their porridge is usually served for breakfast with fruit on top.
Porridge is a very common menu item for breakfast.
Cider
This is not the kind of hot apple cider you drink on a cold winter day to warm up. England’s cider is what Americans know as hard cider. The country is well-known for its flavorsome ciders. Ciders are available at every bar and served on tap just like draft beers are sold in the U.S. However, be cautious knocking backs ciders like you do beer, because all the sugar in the cider creates a harsh hangover the next morning. Its available at every bar on tap just like draft beer is available in the U.S.
This cider was refreshing and fruity, perfect to pair with
fish and chips.
Rocket
No, it’s not a space ship. This name especially makes no sense to Americans because the only thing to compare it to is a space craft that shoots into the sky, which is definitely not a food. In England and some other parts of Europe, rocket is what Americans know as arugula. Rocket is a very popular side dish and garnish in England but tastes exactly the same as it does in the U.S.
It is regular to pair avocado toast with rocket. The rocket usually comes plain and unseasoned.
Pancakes
In the U.S., pancakes are known as breakfast treat. Something sweet and chocolatey you used to douse in syrup as a child. Well, in Britain you will notice several restaurants labeled as a pancake house, and this doesn’t mean they only serve breakfast. In Britain and some other parts of Europe, pancakes are essentially thinner version of crepes. However, they come savory flavors such as mushroom spinach, bacon and egg, parmesan or asparagus. There are also sweet options available, which are fluffier and more of what is common in the U.S.
A typical three-cheese pancake. It is similar to a cheese pizza, minus the tomato sauce.
Even England can't deny the classic chocolate-chip pancake.
