10 British Foods Americans Just Don't Understand
William and Kate. Doctor Who. Fish and chips. The way they say "telly" when they mean "television." Simon Cowell. Phrases like "bloody hell." Americans have been fascinated by the British forever, whether for their self-deprecating sarcasm or their Cadbury chocolates. Even the American obsession with British royalty hasn't wavered over the centuries since we declared our independence from the king — just consider the excitement over the visit of Prince Charles and Princess Camilla to Washington, D.C., in May.
Click here for 10 British foods Americans just don't understand.
Americans traveling to the United Kingdom may look forward to afternoon tea with scones and dainty sandwiches, a hearty ploughman's lunch in an ancient pub, or even fish and chips served up in a newspaper. But there remain plenty of British dishes that are difficult for Americans to make sense of and that they very well might never end up liking. But you never know. We've rounded up 10 British foods, both regional specialties and commonplace offerings, that we just don't understand – from "pasty barm" to jellied eels. And that's not to mention the fearsome haggis, the curiously named stargazy pie, or the rather unpleasant-sounding crappit heids.
Black Pudding
Black pudding is a traditional dish eaten in England, Scotland, Ireland, and, under other names, various other countries. It is simply congealed pig's or cow's blood, mixed with oatmeal or breadcrumbs as a binder, flavored with spices and onions, and stuffed into a casing. To those who haven't grown up with the dish, it can be intimidating, though it's really quite delicious. Black pudding can be eaten in thick slices, crumbled, or whole (like a sausage).
Chip Butty
It's a bizarre name, but the food's contents itself seems like it would be the average American's dream if we'd just give it a chance. Butter two slices of white bread, carefully arrange some thick fries ("chips" if you're British) in the middle, add some vinegar or ketchup, and enjoy.