The North East of England is home to some of the most delicious traditional foods in the UK. From hearty stews to comforting pies, the region is brimming with mouth-watering dishes that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these top 10 traditional foods are not to be missed.
1. Pease Pudding
A staple of traditional North East cuisine, pease pudding is a savory dish made from boiled split peas, salt, and water. Served hot or cold, it is often eaten with ham, bacon, or sausages. Pease pudding can also be used as a spread in sandwiches, or added to stews and soups for added flavor.
2. Stottie Cake
This iconic bread bun is a staple in the North East and is perfect for sandwiches. Stottie Cake is thick and doughy, and is ideal for filling with your favorite cold cuts, cheese, or even a fish finger sandwich!
3. Pan Haggarty
A cheesy potato and onion bake that is perfect for a cold winter’s evening. Pan Haggarty is made with sliced potatoes and onions, layered with grated cheese, and cooked until golden brown. This hearty meal is perfect for warming you up on a chilly North East night.
4. Singin’ Hinnies
Singin’ Hinnies are a traditional flat scone, mixed with lard, currants, and butter. Once the dough is mixed, it’s pressed and baked in a griddle pan. When the Singin’ Hinnie is cooked, it “sings” as it’s removed from the pan, hence its name. These little treats are delicious with jam or a cup of tea.
5. Pease Pudding and Stottie Combination
Combine two North East classics, pease pudding and stottie cake, for a filling and delicious sandwich. Layer slices of pease pudding in between two halves of stottie cake for a delicious on-the-go meal.
6. Saveloy Dip
A popular fast-food dish in the North East, the saveloy dip is a hotdog sausage served in a bread roll and dipped in a buttery beef broth. Variations of this dish include adding cheese or onions, and it’s often served with chips.
7. Craster Kippers
A famous export from the village of Craster on the Northumberland coast, these smoked herrings are a must-try for seafood lovers. The kippers are smoked over oak chips for several hours, resulting in a smoky and flavorful taste.
8. Lamb Shanks
This hearty dish is a popular comfort food in the North East. Lamb shanks are slow-cooked with vegetables and served with creamy mashed potatoes. This dish is perfect for a cozy family meal on a Sunday afternoon.
9. Cumberland Sausage
This delicious sausage originates from the North West of England, but it’s popular all over the North East. Made from coarsely ground pork with a blend of herbs and spices, Cumberland sausage is perfect for a hearty breakfast or a traditional Sunday dinner.
10. Apple Dumplings
A dessert made with juicy apples wrapped in dough, then boiled or steamed. Served with custard, cream, or ice cream, apple dumplings are a perfect end to a traditional North East meal.
The North East of England has a rich culinary tradition, and these top 10 traditional foods are just a small taste of what’s on offer. Whether you’re a foodie or just looking to try something new, these dishes are sure to delight your taste buds.