Life
Happy Bonfire Night! Here are 9 English Recipes to Celebrate Guy Fawkes Day Right
I know what you’re thinking. Bonfire Night is about a man who tried to blow up Parliament. We remember his execution. We burn his effigy. Is this really a time to be eating? Look at it this way: Across the Atlantic, people will be lighting giant bonfires in the name of Guy Fawkes — which means one last chance to roast anything and everything outdoors before winter. Heck yes, it’s a time to be eating.
Think of a bonfire like your stovetop. Except, you know, ten feet tall and deadly. It would be perfect for truly epic s’mores, but on a night like this, you’re going to need some heartier fare — and we have just the menu. In true English spirit, there are sausages to roast, soups to heat, and of course, something boozy to wash it all down. Ready? Grab a match and get a fire going. No matter what side of the pond you’re on, this is one feast you can’t pass up. Here’s to you, Guy.
Image: Verses From My Kitchen
Scotch Eggs
Invented in the 18th century by Fortnum & Mason, Scotch eggs are the perfect, portable snack for bonfire watching. They’re everything you love about yolky boiled eggs — all wrapped up in a delectable crust. My Name Is Yeh has an Asian-inspired version.
Image: My Name Is Yeh
Split Pea Soup
It doesn’t get more English than pea soup. Closet Cooking tops his off with a dollop of whole-grain mustard.
Image: Closet Cooking
Mulligatawny
Borrowed from Indian cuisine, this English classic gets its kick from a pinch of curry powder. Heather Christo shows us how it’s done.
Image: Heather Christo
Kedgeree
Kedgeree is England’s answer to fried rice. Another import from India, this dish takes smoked kippers to the next level with cardamom, cinnamon, and curry powder. Wandercrush breaks it down.
Image: Wandercrush
Bangers and Mash
Whether you call them bangers or sausages, it all means the same thing: Good-for-your-soul pub food. Bonus points if you roast your sausages over a bonfire tonight. Thanks, Verses from My Kitchen!
Image: Verses from My Kitchen
Toad in a Hole
Too many bangers on your hands? Take a cue from Kitchen Mason and tuck them into an herb crust.
Image: Kitchen Mason
Bakewell Tarts
For dessert, we turned to our resident Englishwoman, London Bakes. These adorable tarts star a classic almond filling, with just a hint of raspberry jam.
Image: London Bakes
London Fog Tea Cake
I know, I know. This cake from Hummingbird High isn’t exactly traditional fare — but it’s delicious and tea-flavored, and that’s all the reason I need. Purists might opt instead for Parkin Cake, the usual confection of choice on Bonfire Night.
Image: Hummingbird High
Chamomile Hot Toddy
You’ll need something to keep you warm tonight — and Honestly Yum has the perfect drink. This Hot Toddy stars chamomile tea, plus a shot of bourbon to keep things interesting.
Image: Honestly Yum
