British Food Questions: Expats Ask Most Often
Moving from the UK to Canada often means adjusting to new food options, but for many British expats, finding familiar items is a top concern. Staples like Yorkshire Tea, Cadbury chocolate, and Heinz Baked Beans are frequently missed, while differences in bacon, crisps, and sweets stand out. Expats often rely on specialty stores, care packages, or online shopping to access these comforts.
Key points:
- Tea and Chocolate: British tea brands like PG Tips and British-made Cadbury chocolate are preferred over Canadian versions.
- Bacon and Crisps: British back bacon and unique crisp flavours (e.g., prawn cocktail) are hard to find.
- Pantry Essentials: Items like Marmite, Branston pickle, and Bisto gravy are highly sought after.
- Solutions: Specialty shops, online retailers, and ingredient substitutions help expats recreate British dishes in Canada.
For expats, food is more than sustenance; it’s a connection to home. Simple tweaks, like using Canadian ingredients in British recipes, can keep these traditions alive while blending them with local flavours.
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British Foods Expats Miss Most in Canada
For over 200,000 British expats living in Canada, food often becomes more than just sustenance - it’s a connection to home. The familiar tastes and textures of British favourites act as a comforting reminder of their roots.
Popular British Foods That Remind Expats of Home
Tea tops the list of cravings. Brands like Yorkshire Tea and PG Tips hold a special place in the hearts (and cups) of British expats, as Canadian tea blends often fail to match the rich, robust flavour they’re used to.
Chocolate is another sore spot. While Cadbury products are available in Canada, they don’t quite measure up to the creamy richness of British-made chocolate. Premium treats like Hotel Chocolat and Thorntons are especially missed.
Then there’s bacon. British bacon, with its thicker cut and distinct texture, is vastly different from the thinner, streaky style commonly found in Canada. For many, this difference impacts iconic meals like the full English breakfast or a simple bacon sandwich.
Crisps present a unique challenge. Flavours like prawn cocktail, sausage roll, and pickled onion - staples in British snack aisles - are rare or entirely absent from Canadian stores.
Traditional sweets are another source of nostalgia. Items like Maynards Bassetts Wine Gums, Rowntree's Fruit Pastilles, and Polos (the classic mint with a hole) are hard to track down in Canada, where local candy often has a completely different flavour profile.
Pantry staples are also high on the list of missed items. Essentials like Heinz Baked Beans, Bisto gravy granules, Branston pickle, and Marmite are key to recreating traditional British meals.
For those with refined tastes, artisan products like Wilkin & Sons marmalade from Tiptree and authentic English cheeses paired with chutneys are deeply missed. These items represent a more indulgent side of expat cravings.
How Food Connects British Expats to Their Heritage
Food isn’t just about flavour - it’s about identity. For British expats, traditional dishes and snacks are a way to stay connected to their roots, even thousands of kilometres away.
The experience of food goes beyond the plate. A cup of tea paired with McVitie’s biscuits can bring back memories of quiet afternoons, family gatherings, or even the simple ritual of a tea break. These moments help expats feel grounded in their heritage.
Brand loyalty also plays a big role. Take Heinz Baked Beans, for example - their unique taste and texture evoke a sense of nostalgia that no generic substitute can replicate.
Whether it’s a Sunday roast with Yorkshire pudding, fish and chips on a Friday night, or a full English breakfast, these meals aren’t just about eating; they’re about preserving the rhythms and traditions of home.
For many, the effort to source these foods is well worth it. Some stock up during trips to the UK, others rely on care packages from loved ones, and many turn to specialty stores that cater to British expats. In a world where so much feels unfamiliar - whether it’s navigating Canada’s healthcare system or adjusting to a new way of life - these foods provide a comforting sense of stability and belonging.
Next, we’ll explore how to find these cherished British foods across Canada.
Where to Find British Foods in Canada
Craving the familiar flavours of Britain while living in Canada? You're in luck. Across the country, there are plenty of ways to find those classic British foods you miss. Whether you prefer browsing a local shop or ordering online, there are reliable options to bring those comforting tastes to your table.
The Great British Shop: A Taste of Home in Halifax
Located in Halifax, Nova Scotia, The Great British Shop has become a go-to spot for British expats. This store is known for its extensive range of imported British goods. From beloved classics like Cadbury chocolates, McVitie's biscuits, and Branston pickles to freshly baked treats such as sausage rolls, meat pies, and Victoria sponge cakes, this shop has it all.
With a stellar 4.8 out of 5-star rating based on 226 customer reviews, it's clear this store has earned its reputation. Customers often rave about the “great food and staff,” “amazing bakery stuff,” and the “friendly staff and great products”.
"Welcome to The Great British Shop – your ultimate destination for authentic and imported British food and drinks in Canada!"
For those who can't visit the Halifax location, the shop offers shipping across Canada, so you can enjoy British favourites no matter where you are. They also sell gift cards ranging from $7.48 to $21.00, making them a thoughtful choice for sharing the flavours of home with others.
Shopping Online for British Favourites
If visiting a store isn’t an option, online shopping is a convenient alternative. Many online retailers specialize in British products, offering a wide selection to satisfy your cravings.
When shopping online, take the time to explore the product range to ensure your favourite brands are available. Many retailers offer extra perks like loyalty programs, user accounts, and order tracking, which can make the experience even better. Be mindful of shipping costs, as these can vary depending on your location and the retailer. Some stores even provide free shipping for orders over a certain amount, so it's worth comparing options. Most importantly, always confirm the website's security before entering payment details.
Whether you shop in-store or online, finding British foods in Canada has never been easier.
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Making British Recipes with Canadian Ingredients
Missing your favourite British dishes while living in Canada? Don’t worry - you can recreate those classic flavours right at home. With a few clever substitutions and some quick measurement adjustments, you’ll be enjoying your beloved British comfort foods using ingredients readily available at Canadian grocery stores.
Canadian Substitutes for British Ingredients
Recreating British recipes in Canada often comes down to finding the right substitutes. Here’s how you can tweak your pantry to match those UK staples:
- Clotted Cream: While the rich, thick texture of clotted cream is hard to replicate, mascarpone cheese works well as a stand-in. Alternatively, lightly whipped coconut cream (chilled beforehand) or homemade unsweetened whipped cream can do the trick, though the result will be lighter.
- Self-Raising Flour: Don't worry if you can't find this at your local store - you can make it yourself. Just mix 1½ teaspoons of baking powder and ¼ teaspoon of salt into 1 cup of all-purpose flour.
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Golden Syrup: This one’s a bit tricky, as golden syrup has a distinct flavour that’s hard to replicate. While dark corn syrup or honey can match the consistency, the taste won’t be identical. As home baker Thida Bevington explains:
A baker from a Bake Off group tested a gingerbread cake recipe using authentic British ingredients (golden syrup and black treacle) versus American substitutes (corn syrup and blackstrap molasses). The original ingredients produced a lighter texture and better flavour."Golden syrup is a light gold–coloured syrup made from cane sugar... [It has] a texture like honey and a slight buttery taste."
- Caster Sugar: If you can’t find superfine sugar, simply pulse granulated sugar in a food processor until it’s finer.
- Double Cream: Replace this with heavy cream, but keep in mind that heavy cream has a slightly lower fat content.
- Plain Flour: All-purpose flour is a good substitute for plain flour in most recipes.
- Black Treacle: The darkest molasses you can find will work as a substitute, but the flavour and colour might vary if you swap it for golden syrup.
Once you’ve sorted out the ingredients, the next step is ensuring your measurements are accurate.
Converting British Recipe Measurements for Canada
Measurement differences can be a bit of a hurdle when working with British recipes in Canada. While Canadian recipes often use American-style measurements, ingredients here are sold in metric. This means you’ll need to make some adjustments to get things just right.
- Cup Sizes: Measurements for cups differ depending on the country. A U.S. cup equals 237 millilitres, while a U.K. cup is 227 millilitres, and an Australian cup is 250 millilitres.
- Fluid Ounces and Pints: A U.S. fluid ounce is 29.6 ml, compared to 28.4 ml for an imperial fluid ounce. Similarly, a U.S. pint is 16 fluid ounces, while an imperial pint is 20 fluid ounces.
To avoid confusion, use online converters or round measurements to the nearest 5 millilitres. Investing in a kitchen scale is also a great idea, especially for dry ingredients. And when it comes to oven temperatures, always double-check your conversions to ensure your baking turns out perfectly.
British vs Canadian Food Habits and Customs
Moving from Britain to Canada brings a shift in food customs and dining habits. While the two nations share culinary roots, their modern food practices have diverged significantly. For British expats, understanding these distinctions can make settling into Canadian life much easier while still cherishing traditions from home. These contrasts highlight how each culture approaches and celebrates food.
British Food Traditions vs Canadian Food Practices
Meal routines and dining customs reveal some clear differences. In Britain, the tradition of afternoon tea - with its elegant china and neatly arranged biscuits - is a beloved ritual. In Canada, however, this mid-afternoon pause is largely absent. Canadians typically stick to three main meals, often without formal breaks in between.
British dining often leans toward a more leisurely pace, especially with breakfasts that include hearty combinations like eggs, sausages, bacon, toast, and even pancakes. In contrast, many Canadians favour quicker, grab-and-go options to suit their often fast-paced lifestyles.
The ingredients and heritage behind each country's cuisine also set them apart. As food culture expert Jennifer Cochrall-King notes:
"There is no single definition of Canadian cuisine. It starts with ingredients that spring from the landscape and with traditional dishes steeped in a region's history and culture."
This multicultural influence contrasts with Britain's more established food traditions. Canadian cuisine reflects a mix of locally sourced ingredients and immigrant influences, as highlighted by HE Ambassador Ping Kitnikone. Meanwhile, British cuisine is rooted in customs like the Sunday roast or hearty pub favourites such as steak and ale pie, chicken and leek pie, and Lancashire hotpot.
Regional differences further shape Canadian food habits. On the East Coast, seafood dominates menus, often paired with lingering English culinary traditions. In Quebec, French influences are prominent, contributing to a distinct dining culture. Meanwhile, proximity to the United States has introduced staples like hamburgers, hot dogs, and pancakes, which are now popular across Canada.
Combining British and Canadian Food Styles
The differences between British and Canadian food traditions offer exciting opportunities for creative fusion. For British expats, blending these two culinary worlds doesn’t mean letting go of heritage - it’s about enriching it. Canadians, known for their adventurous palates, are often open to trying well-crafted British dishes, especially when they incorporate local flavours.
Using Canadian ingredients in classic British recipes can add a fresh twist. For instance, Canadian maple syrup can elevate desserts like sticky toffee pudding, while game meats such as elk, venison, or moose bring a local flair to traditional meat pies.
Seafood offers another avenue for fusion. Canadian smoked salmon, for example, can add a luxurious touch to afternoon tea sandwiches. Atlantic fish varieties can provide a fresh take on fish and chips, while smoked salmon pâtés bring a uniquely Canadian spin to traditional recipes.
Seasonal and regional ingredients also work well in desserts. Indigenous Canadian berries like Saskatoon berries, chokecherries, and mooseberries can replace traditional fruits in puddings or crumbles, delivering a taste of Canada while preserving the comforting essence of British sweets.
Modern Canadian food trends align with British traditions in surprising ways. Since the early 2000s, Canadians have shown a growing preference for pasta, bread, and cheese, creating opportunities for British cheese-based dishes to find a receptive audience.
The success of fusion cooking is evident in Canadian restaurants that celebrate the country’s culinary diversity by incorporating local ingredients - like maple syrup or fresh produce - into traditional recipes. This approach demonstrates how British expats can adapt to their new home while staying connected to their roots.
Simple fusion ideas for everyday cooking include adding Canadian smoked salmon to tea sandwiches or using Alberta beef in traditional stews. The goal isn’t to replace British traditions but to enhance them with the rich variety of Canadian ingredients at hand.
Conclusion: Maintaining British Food Traditions in Canada
For British expats living in Canada, keeping culinary traditions alive offers a comforting connection to home. Sharing these beloved dishes with fellow expats strengthens that sense of community. While challenges - like sourcing authentic ingredients or adjusting recipes - can arise, it’s entirely possible to preserve these traditions with a bit of creativity and the right resources.
Striking a balance between staying true to traditional recipes and embracing local ingredients can lead to delightful results. These small tweaks may introduce new flavours while still respecting the essence of the dishes handed down through generations.
Access to authentic British products is crucial, particularly as food prices in Canada are expected to rise by 3% to 5% in 2025. This makes finding dependable sources even more important. Thankfully, specialty retailers across Canada offer a wide range of British groceries, from Cadbury chocolates and Walkers crisps to marmalades and chutneys, both in-store and online. These familiar products make it easier to recreate favourite dishes and celebrate special occasions.
Building community connections also helps keep food traditions alive. Whether it’s hosting an afternoon tea, sharing a plate of shepherd’s pie with Canadian friends, or celebrating holidays like Christmas with a proper pudding, these moments preserve cultural ties while creating new memories.
Flexibility and creativity are key. Adapting ingredients doesn’t mean losing authenticity - it’s about capturing the comfort and nostalgia these foods bring. The goal isn’t perfect replication but celebrating the joy these dishes represent.
British food traditions don’t need to stand apart from Canadian culture - they can blend beautifully. By combining cherished recipes with local influences, you can keep your culinary heritage thriving while enriching your life in Canada.
FAQs
Where can British expats in Canada find authentic British foods like Marmite or Cadbury chocolate?
If you're a British expat living in Canada and longing for the familiar flavours of home, you're in luck. Specialty British food shops carry staples like Marmite, Cadbury chocolate, and other beloved treats. Many of these stores also offer online shopping, making it easy to have your favourites delivered anywhere in Canada.
You might also stumble upon British goodies at select local stores that stock international products. Another handy tip? Check out expat communities or online forums. These spaces are often buzzing with recommendations on where to find the best selection of British snacks and pantry items. They’re a great way to reconnect with the tastes of home while enjoying life in Canada.
What are some good Canadian substitutes for British ingredients when cooking traditional British dishes?
Recreating classic British dishes in Canada is simpler than you might think, especially with a few clever ingredient swaps. For instance, maple syrup makes a delicious stand-in for traditional British jams or treacle, adding a touch of Canadian flair. And when it comes to cured meats, Quebec smoked meat serves as an excellent substitute for British-style options.
For Yorkshire pudding, you can easily use Canadian beef drippings, which are widely available. If you're preparing fish and chips, fresh local fish like cod or haddock fits the bill perfectly. Don't forget to adjust your recipes to Canadian norms - use the metric system for measurements and set your oven temperatures in Celsius. These small tweaks help you stay true to the essence of British cuisine while making the most of ingredients found in Canada.
How can British expats combine their traditional recipes with Canadian ingredients to make unique dishes?
British expats living in Canada have a delicious opportunity to create dishes that marry their traditional recipes with distinctly Canadian flavours. Imagine drizzling maple syrup over a classic sticky toffee pudding for a sweet, local twist, or using Alberta beef to elevate a hearty steak and ale pie.
Why not take it a step further by reimagining Canadian favourites? Try applying British cooking techniques to poutine or incorporating Nova Scotia seafood into a comforting chowder with a British flair. This fusion not only honours both culinary heritages but also highlights the incredible variety of flavours Canada has to offer. By blending these traditions, you can create meals that feel both familiar and excitingly new.
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