The flavours and dishes from our childhood often linger with us into adulthood, forming a common experience of Brummies' collective earlier memories.
Picture a simmering pot of rich, thick stew, its steam carrying the aroma of tender meat and vegetables, seasoned with love and a hint of thyme, at your childhood home, or biting into its soft, pillowy doughnut, the taste of sweet, enriched dough tinged with a hint of nutmeg after a long day at school.
Together, these dishes are not just food; they are a tapestry of memories, each thread a story of Birmingham’s diverse and rich culture, a comforting reminder of days gone by. We asked our readers for their favourite dishes from their childhood and were overwhelmed with tasty responses.
Let’s take a delightful culinary journey down memory lane in Birmingham. Here are 21 iconic dishes that evoke nostalgia and remind people of their upbringing in this vibrant city:

1. Chocolate concrete
A beloved school dessert, Chocolate Concrete is like a very hard shortbread. Served with hot custard, it’s a comforting treat that brings back memories of lunchtime in the school cafeteria | Flickr

2. Pork Scratchings
Crispy, salty, and utterly addictive, pork scratchings are snack reminding many brummies of their first time at the local pub paired with a pint of ale. Made from prime pork rind, these crunchy morsels are seasoned and fried to perfection, for the ultimate Birmingham experience. | Flickr

3. Sprinkle Sponge Cake
A nostalgic school-days treat, this classic sponge cake is adorned with rainbow sprinkles. The light and fluffy texture, combined with the vibrant colours, brings back memories of childhood birthdays and school celebrations. | Flickr

4. Sausage Rolls
Warm, flaky pastry encasing savory sausage meat—sausage rolls are a staple at family gatherings, picnics, and local bakeries. The aroma of freshly baked sausage rolls wafting through the streets is unmistakably Birmingham. | Flickr