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:
5. Cucumber and White Onions Pickled in Vinegar
A tangy and refreshing combination of locally grown cucumbers and white onions, pickled to perfection. This zesty treat often accompanies traditional British ploughman’s lunches or adds a zing to sandwiches. | Flickr
6. Kunzle Cakes
Kunzle Cakes, those sweet, spiced fruitcakes, were once the talk of Birmingham in the 1930s to 1970s. Bursting with dried fruits, nuts, and warming spices, and other delicates they graced festive tables and cosy teatime gatherings. However, as tastes shifted and newer desserts emerged, Kunzle Cakes gradually disappeared from bakery shelves. Yet, for those who remember their nutty goodness, they remain a cherished slice of Birmingham’s flavourful past. | Flickr
7. Birmingham Soup
This comforting soup has been nourishing Brummies for centuries. Its origins date back to the 18th century when industrial pioneer Matthew Boulton created a hearty broth for his workers using inexpensive ingredients like vegetables and stewed beef. Served with crusty bread, it’s a taste of Birmingham’s old memories. . | Cad3D.Expert - stock.adobe.com
8. Fig Rolls
This sweet pastry consist of a soft biscuit dough encasing a lightly spiced fig filling. The bite of fig-filled centres makes them perfect for a tea-time nibble. Whether enjoyed with a cup of tea or as a snack, fig rolls carry a sense of comfort and warmth, to many growing up in Birmingham. | Flickr