In Bizarre Foods London, part of the Delicious Destinations series featuring Andrew Zimmern, the host and his crew visited numerous restaurants in the city, showcasing a variety of unique and delicious dishes. Here is a convenient list of all the addresses and dishes highlighted in this exciting exploration of London’s food scene.
ANDREW ZIMMERN LONDON DISH – Pies & Mash
WHAT IS IT?
Pies and mash is a traditional dish featuring a flavorful meat filling encased in a crust and served with mashed potatoes. At Goddard’s, the main ingredient is high-quality ground beef, expertly seasoned with salt and pepper. Each day, they skillfully craft 2,000 of these pies. The secret recipe for the pastry has been passed down through generations, with the bottom crust made using suet and the upper crust mixed with rendered fat and seasonings derived from the cooked beef. Using a machine utilized by the family for over 70 years, the pastry is flattened and rolled. A spritz of water ensures a secure seal between the upper and lower crust, followed by hand-trimming any excess dough. As they bake in the oven, the marbled fat pastries transform into a magnificent golden crust. To complement this classic dish, a traditional version is served with eel liquor, a sauce that originated as a byproduct of the fish typically served alongside the pies.
WHERE IS IT?
Goddards at Greenwich
22 King William Walk, London SE10 9HU, United Kingdom
London, England
NOTES – DELICIOUS DESTINATIONS LONDON
During the 19th century, meat pies were sold by vendors in the streets of London. As the 20th century arrived, these vendors were gradually replaced by small establishments known as “Eel’s pie houses.” Alongside the meat pies, eels were commonly served as a complementary side dish.
ANDREW ZIMMERN LONDON DISH – Sunday Roast & Yorkshire Pudding
WHAT IS IT?
The Sunday roast tradition begins with a British sirloin of beef, brushed with oil and seasoned with sea salt. Accompanied by boiled vegetables and potatoes, which are later twice-cooked in beef drippings, creating a crispy texture in the oven. Yorkshire pudding, a fluffy popover made from flour, milk, and eggs, is a crucial component. Achieving a light and airy consistency requires quick work with hot fat. Yorkshire pudding is highly regarded by Brits, and in 2008, the Royal Society of Chemistry declared that a proper Yorkshire pudding must be at least 4 inches tall. At Roast, every Sunday dinner is meticulously prepared and measured.
READ MORE: IMPRESSIONS OF LONDON, IN AN ENGLAND STATE OF MIND
WHERE IS IT?
Roast
The Floral Hall, Stoney St, London SE1 1TL, United Kingdom
London, England
NOTES – DELICIOUS DESTINATIONS LONDON
The Sunday roast is not just a meal; it embodies a cherished English tradition. It serves as a reverential tribute to the practice of cooking a substantial meat joint in the oven before attending church, ensuring a delectable feast upon the family’s return home. Yorkshire pudding, originally a thick dough placed beneath the roasting meat to soak up its flavorful drippings, was a means for the working class to make the most of limited meat and provide nourishment for hungry households.
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ANDREW ZIMMERN LONDON DISH – Fish & Chips
WHAT IS IT?
Toff’s keeps it simple when it comes to their fish and chips. The batter consists of a straightforward mixture of flour and water. The fish is first coated in rice flour and then evenly coated in batter before being fried for 6-7 minutes. While traditional fish and chips were fried in beef drippings, Toff’s uses refined peanut oil, which is lighter and lower in cholesterol. Once the chips are added to the oil, they enter the final stage. The meticulous process and attention to detail result in a golden and crispy fillet paired with hot and satisfyingly starchy fries. The dish is served with salt and a touch of vinegar for added flavor.
WHERE IS IT?
Toff’s of Muswell Hill
38 Muswell Hill Broadway, Muswell Hill, London N10 3RT, United Kingdom
London, England
NOTES – DELICIOUS DESTINATIONS LONDON
The origins of the fish and chips combo date back to 1860 when a 13-year-old child began frying and selling chips to support their family. Inspired by the nearby fry shop, they started including fish in their offerings. By World War II, fish and chips had become essential to the British diet and a symbol of national identity to the extent that they were exempt from wartime rationing.
ANDREW ZIMMERN BIZARRE FOODS DELICIOUS DESTINATIONS LONDON DISH – Chicken Tikka Masala
WHAT IS IT?
Chicken tikka masala begins with sautéed onions and a variety of spices, including ginger garlic paste, chili powder, cumin, and coriander. The timing and method of adding these seasonings are crucial. Simultaneously, the chicken pieces are marinated in a yogurt mixture infused with its own blend of spices. After a 3-hour marination, the chicken is baked in a traditional clay oven called a tandoor. When all the elements are combined, they create a culturally diverse fusion that has been proudly designated as Britain’s national dish by the British Foreign Secretary.
WHERE IS IT?
Punjab Indian Restaurant
80 Neal St, London WC2H 9PA, United Kingdom
London, England
NOTES – BIZARRE FOODS DELICIOUS DESTINATIONS LONDON
Chicken tikka masala is a culinary creation that emerged from the fusion of Indian and English cuisines, crafted by Indian cooks over five decades ago. It represents a brilliant amalgamation of flavors and influences from both cultures.
BIZARRE FOODS DELICIOUS DESTINATIONS LONDON DISH – Sticky Toffee Pudding
WHAT IS IT?
Sticky toffee pudding begins by boiling dates and raisins, which are then blended to create a smooth puree. In a separate process, the chef combines butter, sugar, eggs, flour, and baking soda to form a rich batter. The fruit puree is incorporated into the batter, which is then baked for 18 minutes. For the caramel sauce, sugar is caramelized and combined with heavy cream. The puddings are cooled and served with a drizzle of caramel sauce and a dollop of thick double cream, reminiscent of custard.
WHERE IS IT?
Newman Street Tavern Limited
Regis House, 45 King William St, London EC4R 9AN, United Kingdom
London, England
NOTES – BIZARRE FOODS DELICIOUS DESTINATIONS LONDON
In British cuisine, a pudding refers to a baked or steamed dish that is distinct from the flavored custards we are familiar with. British puddings are typically made with flour and eggs, resulting in a sponge-like texture.
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BIZARRE FOODS DELICIOUS DESTINATIONS LONDON DISH – Afternoon Tea
WHAT IS IT?
When attending an afternoon tea in London, James Lewins from 11 Cadogan Gardens can provide guidance to prevent any social awkwardness. It is customary for the person closest to the teapot to pour the tea, and the tea drinker should avoid extending their little finger. It is important not to slurp the tea, regardless of its temperature. The tea experience usually concludes with delightful scones and cakes, including the renowned sponge cake named after the late monarch, Queen Victoria.
WHERE IS IT?
11 Cadogan Gardens
11 Cadogan Gardens, London SW3 2RJ, UK
London, England
NOTES – BIZARRE FOODS DELICIOUS DESTINATIONS LONDON
The British tradition of afternoon tea dates back to the early 1800s. It originated when the Duchess of Bedford discovered that having tea and a snack in the afternoon helped alleviate what she referred to as the “sinking feeling” before the customary late dinner at 9 PM. Over time, tea accompanied by delicate cakes and sandwiches evolved into a cherished social ritual.
