Are you looking for delicious and reliable recipe ideas to impress your family and friends? Look no further! The British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) has been a trusted source of culinary inspiration for generations, offering a wide range of mouth-watering dishes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. From classic comfort foods to international flavors and modern twists on traditional recipes, the BBC’s recipe collection is a treasure trove of gastronomic delights.
In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 of our favorite BBC recipes that are perfect for every occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, looking for a quick weeknight meal, or seeking inspiration for a special celebration, these tried-and-true recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings and impress your guests.
Classic BBC Victoria Sponge Cake
This beloved British classic has been a staple of tea parties and celebrations for generations. With its tender crumb, delicate texture, and sweet buttery flavor, it’s no wonder this cake remains a timeless favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups (250g) cake flour
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs, at room temperature
– 6 tablespoons (30g) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and line two 8-inch (20cm) round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk eggs until light and fluffy. Add softened butter, whisking until well combined.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, whisking until smooth.
5. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans. Smooth tops.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Allow cakes to cool in pans for 5 minutes before transferring to wire racks.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
BBC’s Perfect Roast Chicken with Herbs
This classic recipe yields a golden-brown chicken filled with juicy flavor from the inside out. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll be rewarded with a show-stopping centerpiece for your next dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 1 x 1.5 kg/3 lb 5 oz whole chicken
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 lemon, sliced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp dried rosemary
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 220°C/425°F.
2. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, butter, garlic, lemon zest, thyme, and rosemary.
4. Rub the mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Roast the chicken for 45-50 minutes or until it reaches an internal temperature of 74°C/165°F.
7. Let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before carving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
BBC’s Creamy Mushroom Risotto
Creamy Mushroom Risotto Recipe from BBC
Summary: A comforting and flavorful Italian-inspired dish featuring sautéed mushrooms, Arborio rice, and a rich creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 250g Arborio rice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 200g mixed mushrooms (e.g., cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 4 cups vegetable or chicken stock, warmed
– 25g grated Parmesan cheese
– 20ml dry white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
2. Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the Arborio rice and stir to coat with oil and mix with the mushroom mixture.
4. If using wine, add it and cook until absorbed, stirring constantly.
5. Start adding the warmed stock, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
6. After 20-25 minutes of cooking, the rice should be creamy and tender. Stir in Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes
BBC’s Ultimate Beef Bourguignon
This iconic French stew is a true test of culinary skill, requiring patience, dedication, and attention to detail. With its rich flavors and tender beef, this dish is sure to impress even the most discerning palate.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef chuck or brisket, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups red wine (Burgundy or similar)
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon dried bay leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the beef in batches, then set aside.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add wine, broth, tomato paste, thyme, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Return beef to pot; bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and cook, covered, for 2 hours or until tender.
5. Add carrots and celery; continue cooking for another 30 minutes.
Cooking Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
BBC’s Fluffy Pancakes with Maple Syrup
Start your day off right with these light and fluffy pancakes, perfectly paired with a drizzle of pure Canadian maple syrup.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter.
3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined (do not overmix).
4. Heat a non-stick pan or griddle over medium heat. Drop 1/4 cup of batter onto the pan for each pancake.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on the surface and edges start to dry.
6. Flip pancakes and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes (4-5 pancakes)
BBC’s Homemade Chicken Tikka Masala
A rich and flavorful Indian-inspired dish that’s sure to please the whole family. This homemade version of BBC’s Chicken Tikka Masala recipe is a cinch to make and packed with aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/2 cup plain yogurt
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 2 teaspoons garam masala
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Add the chicken and mix until coated.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon oil. Cook the onions until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to coat with the sauce.
6. Simmer, uncovered, for 15-20 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce has thickened.
7. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve over basmati rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
BBC’s Rich Chocolate Fudge Brownies
Moist, fudgy, and utterly chocolatey, these brownies are a treat for any chocolate lover. With the addition of cocoa powder and melted dark chocolate, they’re sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 2 cups (250g) sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup (60g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup (40g) unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 cup (120g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup (120ml) milk, at room temperature
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper.
2. Melt the butter and sugar in a medium saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and cocoa powder.
5. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
6. Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval.
7. Fold the melted chocolate into the brownie mixture until smooth.
8. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
BBC’s Fresh Greek Salad with Feta
This classic salad is a staple of Mediterranean cuisine, combining juicy tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, and tangy feta cheese for a refreshing and flavorful treat. With just a few simple ingredients and no cooking required, this salad is perfect for a quick lunch or light dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 ripe tomatoes, diced
– 2 large cucumbers, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 block of crumbled feta cheese (about 6 oz)
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or oregano leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the diced tomatoes and sliced cucumbers.
2. Crumble the feta cheese over the top of the salad.
3. Drizzle the olive oil and red wine vinegar over the salad, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Garnish with fresh parsley or oregano leaves if desired.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None required! This salad is ready in minutes.
BBC’s Hearty Lentil and Vegetable Soup
This comforting soup is a perfect way to warm up on a chilly day, packed with fiber-rich lentils and an array of colorful vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, carrots, celery, and bell pepper; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 8 minutes.
2. Add lentils, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
3. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
BBC’s Crispy Fish and Chips
Get ready for a classic British treat with this simple recipe for crispy fish and chips that’s sure to please. With just a few ingredients, you can create a flavorful and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 cod or haddock fillets (about 1/2 pound each)
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cups beer-battered chips (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together flour, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Dredge fish fillets in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Fry fish for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway through.
5. Drain chips from oil and toss with salt to taste.
6. Serve fried fish with hot chips and your favorite condiments.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
BBC’s Fragrant Thai Green Curry
This vibrant green curry is a staple of Thai cuisine, packed with the fragrance of lemongrass and the heat of green chilies. With its creamy coconut milk base and tender chicken or vegetables, it’s a dish that will transport you to the bustling streets of Bangkok.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, Thai basil, bamboo shoots) or 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/2 cup green curry paste
– 2 cups coconut milk
– 1/4 cup fish sauce
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh Thai basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic, ginger, and curry paste; cook, stirring constantly, for 1 minute.
3. Add vegetables or chicken; cook until tender.
4. Stir in coconut milk, fish sauce, lime juice, salt, and pepper.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Garnish with Thai basil leaves before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
BBC’s Buttery Garlic Prawn Pasta
This delectable pasta dish combines the flavors of garlic, butter, and succulent prawns to create a mouthwatering meal that’s perfect for any occasion. In just 20 minutes, you can enjoy a deliciously satisfying dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup prawns (peeled and deveined)
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the prawns to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. If using white wine, add it to the skillet and simmer for an additional minute.
5. Drain the pasta and toss with the garlic butter prawn mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
BBC’s Zesty Lemon Drizzle Cake
Brighten up your day with this tangy and sweet Zesty Lemon Drizzle Cake, perfect for a springtime treat or a quick dessert to impress. With a moist lemon-infused sponge and a burst of citrusy glaze, this cake is sure to be a hit.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs
– 2 lemons, zested and juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 8-inch round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, eggs, lemon zest, and juice.
3. Add softened butter and mix until combined.
4. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and smooth tops.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Allow cakes to cool in pans for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
BBC’s Spicy Mexican Chilli Con Carne
This hearty chilli con carne recipe combines tender beef, rich spices, and a kick of heat, perfect for a cold winter’s night. A vibrant and flavorful dish that’s sure to please the whole family!
Ingredients:
– 500g beef mince
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (400g) chopped tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon chilli powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 150ml beef stock
Instructions:
1. In a large pan, cook the beef mince over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the cumin, smoked paprika, chilli powder, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the chopped tomatoes and beef stock. Bring to a simmer and cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together and the chilli has thickened slightly.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
BBC’s Creamy Carbonara with Pancetta
This rich and creamy pasta dish gets a boost from crispy pancetta and a velvety sauce.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 4 slices pancetta, diced
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, cook the pancetta over medium heat until crispy, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Add the cooked spaghetti to the bowl and toss with the egg mixture until well coated.
5. Add the pancetta to the bowl and toss until combined.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
BBC’s Fluffy Buttermilk Scones
These tender and delicious scones are a perfect treat any time of the day. With their light, fluffy texture and subtle tang from the buttermilk, they’re sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 3/4 cup buttermilk
– 1 egg, beaten
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add cold butter and use a pastry blender or your fingers to work it into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together buttermilk and beaten egg.
5. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and stir until just combined (do not overmix).
6. Turn dough onto a floured surface and gently knead a few times until it comes together.
7. Pat dough into a circle that’s about 1 inch thick.
8. Cut into 8-10 wedges and place on prepared baking sheet.
9. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
BBC’s Roasted Butternut Squash Soup
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors, featuring roasted butternut squash as the star ingredient. With its creamy texture and depth of flavor, it’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh herbs, such as parsley or cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
3. Place the squash on a baking sheet, cut side up, and drizzle with olive oil.
4. Roast for 45-50 minutes, or until the flesh is tender and caramelized.
5. Scoop the roasted squash into a blender or food processor with the chopped onion, garlic, and broth.
6. Blend until smooth, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. If desired, add heavy cream or half-and-half for an extra creamy texture.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
BBC’s Juicy Beef Burger with Cheese
Create a mouthwatering burger with tender beef and melted cheese, perfect for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 500g minced beef (80% lean)
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 4 hamburger buns
– 4 slices of cheese (such as cheddar or mozzarella)
– Lettuce, tomato, and any other desired toppings
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick frying pan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the minced beef, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
5. Form into 4 patties. Place on a plate or tray.
6. Grill or pan-fry the burgers to desired level of doneness.
7. Assemble the burgers by placing a cooked patty on each bun, followed by cheese and any desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
BBC’s Refreshing Strawberry Eton Mess
Get ready for a sweet and tangy twist on the classic British dessert! This refreshing strawberry version of Eton mess is perfect for warm weather gatherings or as a light and lovely treat any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 250g meringue shards
– 200g fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 50g granulated sugar
– 150ml double cream
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whip the double cream until stiff peaks form.
2. Fold in the granulated sugar and honey until well combined.
3. Gently crush the meringue shards into small pieces and fold them into the whipped cream mixture.
4. Arrange the sliced strawberries on top of the meringue mixture.
5. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None
BBC’s Homemade Margherita Pizza
This classic Italian recipe requires just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort to create an authentic, delicious pizza that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 000g strong bread flour
– 625ml lukewarm water
– 10g salt
– 2g sugar
– 20g extra-virgin olive oil
– 200g tomato puree
– 28g fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– Fresh basil leaves
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, lukewarm water, salt, and sugar. Mix until a dough forms.
2. Knead the dough for 5-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
3. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with cling film, and let it rest at room temperature for 1 hour.
4. Preheat oven to 220°C (425°F).
5. Roll out the dough to your desired thickness.
6. Spread tomato puree over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
7. Arrange mozzarella slices on top of the sauce.
8. Sprinkle with salt and drizzle with olive oil.
9. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until crust is golden brown and cheese melted.
10. Garnish with fresh basil leaves.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your cooking game with these 20 mouth-watering BBC recipes! From classic desserts like Victoria Sponge Cake and Zesty Lemon Drizzle Cake, to savory dishes such as Perfect Roast Chicken with Herbs and Crispy Fish and Chips, there’s something for every occasion. Other highlights include Homemade Chicken Tikka Masala, Rich Chocolate Fudge Brownies, and Fragrant Thai Green Curry. Whether you’re in the mood for comfort food or a quick weeknight dinner, these BBC recipes are sure to please.
