What popular British food is on your most-loved list?

From nostalgic comfort food to inventive takes on classics, our UK produce delivers. Here are some fresh ideas on how to hero local flavours on your menu.

Meat mastery

British lamb, beef and pork are globally renowned for quality. Think beyond roasts with slow-cooked lamb shoulder tacos, beef shin ragu, or pork belly bao buns. These all put a fresh spin on traditional cuts. Source from trusted local farms to highlight provenance, and make use of less mainstream cuts, such as beef cheeks or pork neck, to add value while keeping costs down.

A Colman’s twist

Colman’s Mustard brings unmistakable heat and heritage to the table. Don’t just use it in the condiment pot – add it to salad dressings, marinades, or a bold mustard butter for steaks. Stir through mash, glaze sausages before roasting or whisk into rarebit topping. A little goes a long way, meaning you can reduce other seasoning and still achieve a punchy flavour that’s instantly recognisable to customers.

Marmite magic

Love it or hate it, Marmite is a British icon – and far more versatile than just spreading it on toast. Add depth to gravies, marinades or veggie burger mixes. Stir into a cheese sauce for a savoury kick, flavour churros for an enticing bar snack or mix through lentil stews. Its rich depth makes plant-based dishes feel meatier and elevates comforting classics into something extra special.

Versatile veg

Seasonal veg keeps menus exciting, cost-effective and sustainable. Celebrate heritage potatoes, asparagus and rhubarb. Think roast spuds with rosemary, charred asparagus for salads and brunch dishes, or use rhubarb in chutneys and savoury glazes. Highlight the farm or region they’re from
for field to fork freshness.

Creative custard

Bird’s Custard is a nostalgic staple, but it can double up as a base for creative desserts. Infuse with vanilla, cinnamon or citrus to reinvent it, or layer into trifles, pots and sundaes. Freeze into ice cream, whip into sauces or serve warm with puddings for comfort food appeal. Its familiarity is reassuring, while still allowing chefs to create inventive twists and refresh this much-loved British classic.

Why not try our Chocolate Custard Pot with Mango and Coconut recipe?

Cheese champions

From creamy Stilton to crumbly Lancashire, British cheeses are a menu powerhouse. Add them to pies, toasties, souffles or grazing boards for instant impact. A seasonal British cheeseboard with artisan chutneys and crackers can become a premium upsell for groups. Cheese sauces also work well across menus. Think local Cheddar in macaroni and soft cheeses in desserts. Highlighting seasonal or regional cheeses easily adds extra menu appeal.