As the winter chill sets in, Britons have decisively voted for their favourite hearty meals to ward off the cold. A new nationwide poll has confirmed that the classic roast dinner remains the undisputed king of the UK's winter comfort food scene.
The Nation's Top Winter Warmers Revealed
Commissioned by the Swiss dairy company Emmi, the survey of 2,000 UK adults placed the traditional Sunday roast in the number one spot, securing a commanding 59% of the votes. This iconic meal, often the centrepiece of family gatherings, comfortably beat all other contenders.
Following closely behind was a rich and comforting beef stew, which garnered just over a third of the vote at 34%. The beloved combination of bangers and mash took third place with 33% of respondents naming it a favourite.
The research, reported by the Express, highlighted a top ten filled with familiar and hearty dishes:
- Roast Dinner
- Beef Stew
- Sausage and Mash
- Lasagna (32%)
- Apple Crumble (32%)
- Spaghetti Bolognese (31%)
- Cottage Pie (31%)
- Shepherd's Pie (30%)
- Soup (29%)
- Jacket Potato (28%)
Further down the list, Brits also showed a taste for spice, with curry (25%) and chilli con carne (20%) featuring prominently.
The Rise of Shared, Cheesy Comfort
While traditional plates continue to dominate, the survey uncovered a significant trend towards interactive, communal dining experiences, particularly those involving melted cheese. Dishes like mac and cheese, grilled cheese sandwiches, and cauliflower cheese all ranked within the top 15.
Notably, Swiss alpine classics fondue and raclette broke into the top 20, reflecting a growing appetite for social meals. A substantial 77% of those surveyed agreed that shared dishes like fondue help foster a stronger sense of connection with friends and family.
This sentiment is especially strong among younger adults, with 59% of 25–34-year-olds planning to enjoy melted cheese creations this winter, compared to an overall average of 33%.
Vickie Rogerson, Emmi UK Cheese Ambassador, commented on the findings: "It's interesting to see our research shows that classic dishes are still very much in fashion this winter... But within the study we can also see there's a growing demand for interactive, satisfying comfort food that encourages people to slow down and connect."
Brits Embrace Al Fresco Winter Dining
In a surprising twist, the survey also revealed a national willingness to brave the elements for a favourite meal. Over half of respondents (51%) admitted they have already enjoyed winter comfort food outdoors, with a further 31% intending to do so soon.
When it comes to preferred outdoor settings, a cosy pub garden was the top choice for 43% of people. Over a third (37%) fancied a winter picnic, while more adventurous diners expressed interest in alpine-style huts (11%) or even pop-up igloos (7%).
The data suggests a strong resurgence of affection for these hearty dishes, with a significant 82% of Brits confessing they have rekindled their love for traditional winter comfort foods this year.
Vickie Rogerson added: "In my opinion hot, bubbling cheese is the ultimate convivial centrepiece, and the data shows its appeal is strongest among younger generations who are seeking fun, social dining experiences at home."
The full list of the UK's top 20 winter comfort foods is completed by hotpot, jam roly poly, bread and butter pudding, fondue, and raclette.
