A British import store is an establishment that specializes in sourcing and selling food products imported from the United Kingdom. These stores offer many food items that are specialties of Britain and give the feel of British culinary traditions and culture.
Such import stores may offer a wide variety of food items and products that may be from different parts of the UK. Chocolates, tea, biscuits, condiments, jams, cereals, preserves, crisps, sausages, black pudding, canned beans, meat pies, puddings, marmite, pasties, etc., are some of the food items that are British specialties and are available in these stores. To ensure that customers can experience the same taste and quality they would get when using the product in the UK, many British import food retailers take pride in procuring authentic products directly from the UK. Besides food, some establishments might also sell products that are not edible, such as – tea towels and souvenirs that are associated with British culture.
What should you buy from British Import Store
Tea
Tea is an important part of British culture. There are many different types of flavours in tea, available to suit the palate of different people. Brands like Yorkshire Tea, Twinings, PG Tips have been around for centuries. PG Tips, Typhoo, Taylor’s of Harrogate are all famous brands that offer aromatic and flavourful teas. While afternoon tea is quite famous among the British, they like to savour the beverage whenever they like or want to relax and refresh themselves.
Biscuits
There are a variety of tasty biscuits that are famous in the UK. The British love their afternoon tea, and biscuits are a staple accompaniment. There are a delightful array of flavours and textures which cater to diverse tastes and preferences. From the classics like McVitie's Digestives and Hobnobs, which offer a crunch and hearty meatiness, to the sweet indulgence of Jammie Dodgers and Custard Creams, every biscuit brings its own unique charm to the table. Shortbread biscuits are known for their buttery richness and crumbly texture, which evoke a sense of nostalgia with every bite. British biscuits hold a special place in the hearts and taste buds of folks of all ages. This is a must-buy from British import stores.
Chocolate
British chocolates are known for their creamy texture, rich flavours, and irresistible taste. They are a favourite indulgence worldwide. Brands like Cadbury are famous for their Dairy Milk chocolate – which is a velvety smooth chocolate that melts in the mouth. Chocolates from Galaxy are enticed by their luxurious silkiness. Aero delights the taste buds with its light and airy bubbles, and Kit Kat's crispy wafer layers complement the smooth chocolate coating perfectly. These brands consistently deliver exceptional quality and flavour, ensuring a wonderful chocolate experience every time.
Condiments
You definitely need to stock up on British condiments when you are in a British import store. Condiments play an important role in British cuisine and make the dishes flavourful and enhance the overall dining experience. The British kitchen boasts a rich tapestry of unique condiments, each contributing its own distinctive taste. Marmite, with its savoury flavour, adds a bold punch to toast or sandwiches, while Branston Pickle offers a tangy and sweet relish that pairs perfectly with cheese and cold meats. Other condiments include HP Sauce, known for its fruity and tangy blend of flavours and Colman's Mustard, prized for its fiery kick and pungent aroma.
Crisps
Crisps are often referred to as chips in most parts of the world. They are made from thinly sliced potatoes, deep-fried, and seasoned before they are packaged. They come in a variety of flavours and textures to suit every taste preference. From classic varieties like Salt & Vinegar, Cheese & Onion, and Ready Salted to more adventurous options such as Prawn Cocktail and Worcestershire Sauce, crisps offer crunch and flavour with every bite. Popular brands include Walkers (known as Lay's in some countries), McCoy's, and Tyrell's, which are famous for their tasty crisps.
Pies and Pastries
Pies and pastries are comfort foods in British cuisine and offer a delightful combination of flaky pastry and savoury fillings. In addition to steak and ale pies, sausage rolls, and Cornish pasties, you can explore a variety of other mouth-watering options. Scotch pies are filled with minced meat and gravy, chicken and mushroom, cheese, seasonal vegetables, and many more. If you like seafood, then you can try traditional fish pies brimming with creamy sauce and chunks of fresh fish.
Jams and Preserves
British jams and preserves are often made from fresh fruits like strawberries, oranges, blackberries, raspberries, etc. Famous brands such as Wilkin & Sons Tiptree, Hartley's and Duerr's are known to offer fresh preserves and jams. They are often used as a spread on warm toast or delicately layered on freshly baked scones, along with desserts.
Sauces and Gravy
Sauces and gravies are integral to British cuisine. From traditional Sunday roasts to hearty pies and casseroles, sauces, and gravies are used to enhance and complement the natural flavours of meats and vegetables. Famous British sauces and gravy mixes include Bisto, Knorr, and Oxo. These brands come with a range of options, from classic beef gravy to savoury chicken sauces – they make cooking quite easy, especially for people who are working.
Canned Goods
Your basket wouldn’t be complete without the canned products. They make cooking convenient in British kitchens and are an easy access to pantry staples and meal ingredients. Among the most famous canned goods are baked beans, which is a breakfast staple and often enjoyed with toast or as part of a full English breakfast. Some brands include Heinz that are known for their richly flavoured savoury baked beans in tomato sauce, and Batchelors, which offers a variety of canned soups, beans and pulses. Additionally, Fray Bentos is famous for its canned meat pies.
British import stores are a boon for those who are living in other countries and look forward to experiencing the taste of food from their homeland.