Must Try Cornish Foods

by | Jul 7, 2024 | Latest News, Local Area

Introduction

Cornwall, a picturesque county in the southwest of England, is renowned not only for its stunning landscapes and charming villages but also for its unique and delectable cuisine. Cornish food reflects the region’s rich history, maritime culture, and bountiful natural resources. This blog will take you on a culinary journey through Cornwall, highlighting must-try dishes and local specialties that define Cornish gastronomy.

  1. The Iconic Cornish Pasty

No exploration of Cornish food is complete without mentioning the iconic Cornish pasty.

  • What is it? A Cornish pasty is a baked pastry traditionally filled with beef, potatoes, swede (rutabaga), and onions, seasoned with salt and pepper.
  • History: Originally a convenient and hearty meal for miners, the pasties thick crust served as a handle that could be discarded after eating, keeping the filling free from dirt.
  • Where to try it: Many bakeries and pasty shops throughout Cornwall offer fresh, handmade pasties. Some of the best places include Philp’s Bakery in Hayle and Ann’s Pasties in Helston.
  1. Fresh Seafood

Cornwall’s extensive coastline provides a rich bounty of seafood, making it a haven for seafood lovers.

  • Popular Dishes:
    • Cornish Crab: Sweet and succulent, Cornish crab is often served simply with lemon and butter or in a fresh crab sandwich.
    • Mussels and Oysters: Found in abundance, Cornish mussels and oysters are best enjoyed fresh, often steamed or served on the half shell.
    • Fish and Chips: A British classic, fish and chips in Cornwall is a must-try, with locally caught fish like cod, haddock, or hake.
  • Where to try it: The Fish House in Newquay and Porthminster Beach Café in St Ives are known for their exceptional seafood dishes.
  1. Cornish Cream Tea

Indulge in a traditional Cornish cream tea, a delightful afternoon treat.

  • What is it? A cream tea consists of freshly baked scones, Cornish clotted cream, and strawberry jam, served with a pot of tea.
  • How to eat it: The Cornish way is to split the scone, spread the jam first, and then add a generous dollop of clotted cream on top.
  • Where to try it: Many tearooms across Cornwall offer cream tea, but some of the best can be found at The Tea Room at Trelissick Gardens and the Fowey Hall Hotel.
  1. Cornish Cheese

Cornwall produces a variety of artisanal cheeses that showcase the region’s dairy farming heritage.

  • Popular Varieties:
    • Cornish Yarg: Wrapped in nettles, this semi-hard cheese has a distinct, slightly tangy flavour.
    • Cornish Blue: A creamy blue cheese with a mild, sweet taste.
  • Where to try it: Visit local farmers’ markets or cheese shops like The Cheese Shop in Truro or the Cornish Cheese Co. in Liskeard.
  1. Hearty Stews and Soups

Cornish cuisine includes hearty dishes perfect for cooler weather.

  • Stargazy Pie: A traditional Cornish dish made with pilchards (sardines), eggs, and potatoes, with the fish heads poking through the crust, “gazing” at the stars.
  • Cornish Fish Stew: A flavourful stew made with a variety of fresh fish, shellfish, and vegetables, often seasoned with herbs and spices.
  • Where to try it: The Star & Garter in Falmouth and The Seafood Restaurant in Padstow are known for their excellent takes on traditional Cornish dishes.
  1. Cornish Ice Cream

Cornwall’s dairy farms produce some of the creamiest ice cream you’ll ever taste.

  • Popular Flavors: Traditional flavours like vanilla and strawberry are popular, but many local producers also offer unique flavours featuring Cornish ingredients.
  • Where to try it: Roskilly’s and Callestick Farm are two renowned Cornish ice cream producers with parlours where you can sample their delicious creations.
  1. Local Beverages

Pair your Cornish meal with a local beverage for a complete experience.

  • Cornish Cider: Cornwall produces some excellent ciders, made from locally grown apples. Popular brands include Healey’s Cornish Cyder and Cornish Orchards.
  • Cornish Ales: Try local ales and beers from breweries like St Austell Brewery and Sharp’s Brewery.
  • Cornish Gin: Cornwall is also known for its artisanal gins, such as Tarquin’s Cornish Gin and Curio Spirits.
  • Where to try it: Many pubs and bars across Cornwall offer a selection of local drinks. The Watering Hole in Perranporth and The Front in Falmouth are great places to start.

Conclusion

Cornish cuisine offers a rich tapestry of flavours and traditions, reflecting the region’s unique cultural heritage and natural resources. From the Savoury Cornish pasty to the sweet delight of a cream tea, and the fresh seafood to the hearty stews, there’s something to satisfy every palate. When visiting Cornwall, be sure to embark on a culinary adventure and savour the best that this beautiful county has to offer.

Feel free to reach out if you need more detailed recommendations or specific dining suggestions for your trip to Cornwall. Enjoy your culinary journey!