There are many mysteries when it comes to how things work in the UK but the most asked question always comes back to one thing: The food. The United Kingdom is known for some unique dishes and tourists often find things on the menu that they aren't familiar with, but which of these things are the most central to UK cuisine? Even more so, which of these dishes are local favorites that must be tried on any trip? That's what we're on a mission to find out.

The most popular British dishes can only be described as unique, one of a kind, and altogether comforting. Many counties have tried to replicate them but nothing is quite as delightful an experience as sitting down in a London pub on a rainy day and ordering one of these plates. The best options might not seem like anything special but trust us... they're worth it.

Beans On Toast

It might seem strange to the rest of the world but in the UK, beans are a bigtime vegetable. In fact, according to Culinary Ginger, canned beans are one of the most-purchased canned foods in England.

Before knocking this one off the list, though, it should be made known that the 'baked beans' made in England are definitely not like the baked beans that are found in other places such as the US. Rather than being BBQ flavored, England's baked beans have a savory tomato base and make with Navy, haricot, or great northern beans. With a flavor leaning toward the acidic and hearty side, beans on toast is a well-loved dish that should be tried at least once.

Bangers And Mash

Of course, no UK menu would be complete without the traditional bangers and mash. The best part about this dish is its simplicity as it's made with sausages and mashed potatoes, with a savory gravy that's just enough to satisfy any lunch or dinner craving.

It's the perfect accompaniment to London's often drizzly weather and a great choice for warming up in the UK countryside. Tender, juicy sausages sit atop a pile of fluffy, perfectly seasoned mash, and the pools of sauce over the top balance and round out a delicious, homestyle flavor.

Fish And Chips

Often imitated by many restaurants around the world, fish and chips still hold strong in the UK. It could be considered a place of origin for this dish which is about as synonymous with the UK as the cheeseburger is with the US.

Usually made with cod, fish and chips are nothing short of perfection in the UK. Served with a side of malt vinegar or tartar sauce (or sometimes both, if you ask), this tasty dish is served in a basket lined with newspaper alongside the crispiest salty fries you'll have ever had in your life. Talk about satisfying a craving!

Related: Burrata, Bresaola, N'duja, And Other Italian Delicacies You're Missing Out On

Roasted Chicken

Another dish that might seem simplistic is one that's yet another staple on UK menus. While every English menu will have its own version of roasted chicken from the herbs used to the sides which are served with the dish, they're all equally mouthwatering.

There's nothing like smelling the savory waft of fresh herbs as a chicken is pulled, sizzling, from the oven. With perfectly crispy skin and a cascade of natural juices that form their own sauce in a pile of mashed potatoes or sauteed green beans, not much gets better than this.

A Proper English Breakfast

So what, exactly, does a proper English breakfast imply? For starters, this isn't a stack of fluffy French toast or cake-like pancakes as many would opt for. It's not even a loaded omelet which is another popular option in Europe.

Rather, the UK has quite a different take on what's for breakfast, and it starts with baked beans, sausages, eggs, black pudding, toast, and cooked mushrooms. Of course, coffee or tea is the drink of choice, and it's a hearty, protein and fiber-filled plate, perfect to start the day with.

Related: Comfort Foods From Around The World (That Make Us Feel Anything But Comfortable)

The most popular dish in the UK as told by YouGov is definitely not what many might guess. In fact, it's not even truly a dish - at least, not in much of the world.

Chips, also known as French fries or wedges in other parts of the world, is one of the most commonly-ordered foods in the UK. These thick-cut, golden brown slices of potatoes are second to none when it comes to lunch or dinner, and it's easy to see why. Potatoes are technically a food group, right?

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