Queen Elizabeth II is only the second female monarch in history to have been on the throne for 60 years, so the Diamond Jubilee is a great cause for celebration throughout Great Britain and the whole of the Commonwealth. Expect to see 'knees-ups' in the form of a Traditional British Street Party across the land. So much to look forward to.
Not ignoring that British Food has a uniquely modern face, the Jubilee celebrations are focused more towards traditional British recipes; food loved for centuries. Here is a collection of traditional British recipes and though there is far more to British Food than just these 10 recipes, all of these are loved and all are perfect for your party.
Not ignoring that British Food has a uniquely modern face, the Jubilee celebrations are focused more towards traditional British recipes; food loved for centuries. Here is a collection of traditional British recipes and though there is far more to British Food than just these 10 recipes, all of these are loved and all are perfect for your party.
1. Coronation Chicken
Photo © Totally Traditional
There is no way you can have a Jubilee Celebration with out including Coronation Chicken on the menu. This ubiquitous British dish was designed for the Queen's Coronation in 1952 and has become a classic of British Food in the glowing 60 years. It did fall out of fashion but thanks to the Jubilee is making something of a comeback.
2. Sausage Rolls and Pork Pies
Photo © istock.com
Don't even think about having any British party without having sausage rolls putting in an appearance. They are simply the perfect party food, great for little or big hands, can be held and eaten even during a sing-song and a knees up. You can make the rolls simply with pork sausage meat or ring the changes by adding spices, herbs or whatever takes your fancy.
Great partners too are mini-pork pies (or even large ones if you want).
Great partners too are mini-pork pies (or even large ones if you want).
3. Perfect Pasties
Photo © Elaine Lemm
The Cornish Pasty may be native of Cornwall but like many regional specialties, is loved across the nation. Like the sausage roll and the pork pie, a Cornish pasty is a perfect party food; meat and vegetables are neatly wrapped together in pastry. Use the same recipe to make mini pasties which are great for putting on a buffet.
4. An Old Favourite - the Scotch Egg
Photo © istock
Centre table at a Jubilee Party must be the humble Scotch egg which was once the stalwart of the picnic hamper, lunch box or the mini version served at posh parties. That is until it fell out of favour. I suspect it was the deep-fried part that caused this self-contained parcel of food to practically disappear. It is back, it is lighter, tastier, Scotch Eggs now use free-range eggs, good quality sausage meat, fresh herbs and light crumbs for the coating and only lightly fried, then baked in the oven. Perfect.
5. The Victoria Sponge Cake
Photo © RFB Photography
The Victoria Sponge was named after Queen Victoria as reputably it was her favourite cake. Anna, the Duchess of Bedford who has been given credit for introducing the charming art of the Afternoon Tea was Lady in Waiting to the Queen who quickly adopted the custom serving sponge cakes as part of the tea.
6. Strawberry Jelly and Ice Cream
Photo © istock
Strawberry Jelly, the stuff of childhood dreams. Jelly (jello to those of you across the pond) can be made from almost any soft, summer fruits but strawberry really is the all time favourite. Jelly is great topped with whipped cream r a huge dollop of ice cream for the perfect party treat.
7. Classic British Trifle Recipe
Photo © StockXpert
Roll together some favourite British dessert ingredients into one pudding and you have the trifle. Trifle is a wonderful combination of jelly, a thick layer of custard, whipped cream and fresh summer fruits when available. Trifle makes a great pudding for a street (or any other) party as it can be made in large bowls for everyone to dip into.
8. A Queen of Puddings
Photo © StockXpert
Take a curtsey or a bow for that most regal of puddings, a Queen of Puddings. Am interesting pudding which dates back to the mid 17th century. There is it seems no royal connection, so the regal status comes from it being considered one of the best puddings around and its royally good taste. Another 'dipping into' pudding so perfect if you have to feed a crowd.
9. Bring it all Together with an Afternoon Tea
Photo © istock
If you want to immerse into all things British this jubilee, then why not host an Afternoon Tea. The lovely ritual of serving tea, sandwiches, cakes and scones together reflects the genteel, face of Great Britain.
We must give thanks to Anna, Duchess of Bedford and her need for refreshment until a late dinner and the serving of a few sandwiches and cakes to tide her over. It was this need which brought about what is now a quintessential past of British food.
A traditional British afternoon tea, starts with finger-sized sandwiches, followed by scones with butter, jam and/or cream, then an assortment of cakes and, of course, lashings of tea.
We must give thanks to Anna, Duchess of Bedford and her need for refreshment until a late dinner and the serving of a few sandwiches and cakes to tide her over. It was this need which brought about what is now a quintessential past of British food.
A traditional British afternoon tea, starts with finger-sized sandwiches, followed by scones with butter, jam and/or cream, then an assortment of cakes and, of course, lashings of tea.
