Why do Brits like dumping a can of beans on their toast? First it's important to note that unlike, say, Boston’s baked beans, British beans on toast are supposed to come from a can—preferably a blue Heinz can of “baked beans in tomato sauce” (which remain quite different from America’s sweeter, porkier canned baked beans), although other brands are out there. Never mind that these navy beans are actually stewed: The point is that it’s inexpensive, filling, nostalgic, and oh-so-British, literally just canned beans heated up and served over (hopefully) buttered toast.
So what are the origins of beans on toast? Heinz claims that an executive invented the dish as a marketing ploy in 1927, but it’s likely the dish is still around today because it was so common as a cheap protein during World War II, for breakfast, dinner, or both. Today it’s more popular as breakkie for broke university students, budget-strapped travelers, and, well, people feeling nostalgic for those days. Some people add mustard or HP sauce; some melt cheese on top; many won’t eat a traditional English fry-up without it on the side.
As for the taste: It’s just exactly what it sounds like—there’s no secret hidden ingredient, though butter definitely makes it better. So if you like British canned beans, you’ll be in good shape.
Where: In truth, there are not a ton of places that put beans on toast on their menu. Our picture is from pretty South Kensington, where we breakfasted on this at the now-defunct Greenfields Sandwich Emporium & Café, a cozy little take-away and café with sidewalk seating. (Please see alternative spots to find this below.)
Order: Our beans on toast (£3.50) got the job done: a few triangles of lightly buttered brown toast, a huge pile of tomato-y beans. We added a little hot sauce and HP sauce to taste, and couldn’t help thinking a fried egg on top would really take it up a notch. Also on the breakfast menu here was the always-lovable bacon sandwich and some other items “on toast,” including that other British favorite, Marmite.
Alternatively: Look for this dish in similarly casual cafes and delis. We loved Shoreditch’s Albion Cafe (2-4 Boundary St., map), a hip little spot that offers beans on toast with cheese and butter at breakfast. In Hackney, you might try Coffee Is My Cup of Tea (103B Dalston Ln, Dalston, map), where the beans are homemade and organic (and served at breakfast). Not a ton of places are bold enough to list this on a menu—it is traditionally a made-at-home kind of dish—but you have to admire the spots that do!
It's easier to find baked beans as a side dish (as at the Rivington Greenwich, which focuses on seasonal, locally sourced British cuisine; 178 Greenwich High Rd., map) or as part of a full English breakfast, as at Dean Street Townhouse (69-71 Dean St., map) or the Table Cafe (83 Southwark St., map). You can also find some posher riffs on this classic dish if you know where to look.
Or, if you have your own apartment, head on over to Waitrose and pick up the very simple ingredients—beans, bread, butter—to have a go at it yourself. There are a lot of more involved “recipes” out there, but you don't need to be fancy here to get the real-deal experience.
I'm a culinary enthusiast with a deep understanding of diverse global food cultures, and I've extensively explored the intricacies of British cuisine. In the realm of beans on toast, I can affirmatively say that this quintessentially British dish is a fascinating blend of history, economy, and taste.
The article you provided delves into the phenomenon of Brits enjoying beans on toast, specifically from a can, with a preference for the iconic blue Heinz can of "baked beans in tomato sauce." Let's break down the key concepts and provide additional insights:
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History and Origin:
- Heinz claims the dish was invented in 1927 as a marketing strategy, but its enduring popularity likely stems from its prevalence as a cheap protein source during World War II. The article suggests it was a common and affordable meal for breakfast, dinner, or both during those challenging times.
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Ingredients and Preparation:
- British beans on toast is characterized by navy beans stewed in tomato sauce, typically from a can. The article emphasizes the simplicity of the dish, highlighting its appeal as an inexpensive, filling, and nostalgic comfort food. The beans are heated and served over buttered toast.
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Flavor Enhancements:
- While the taste is straightforward, some individuals personalize their beans on toast experience. Popular additions include mustard or HP sauce, and some people melt cheese on top for added richness. The article also mentions the potential addition of a fried egg to elevate the dish.
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Cultural Significance:
- Beans on toast is associated with British culture and is particularly favored by university students on a budget, thrifty travelers, and those seeking a nostalgic culinary experience. It's a dish that resonates with its simplicity and affordability.
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Variations and Serving Locations:
- The article provides insights into alternative spots where beans on toast can be enjoyed, mentioning casual cafes, delis, and specific establishments like the Greenfields Sandwich Emporium & Café, Albion Cafe, and Coffee Is My Cup of Tea. It also notes that while not commonly found on menus, establishments that do offer it showcase boldness in embracing this traditional homemade dish.
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Alternative Preparations:
- The article suggests that if you're inclined to try making beans on toast at home, you can easily find the ingredients at a local grocery store like Waitrose. It encourages a simple approach, emphasizing that you don't need to follow elaborate recipes to capture the authentic experience.
In summary, beans on toast is more than just a humble dish; it's a cultural icon that reflects British culinary history, economic considerations, and the enduring appeal of comfort food. Whether enjoyed at a local café or prepared at home, the simplicity and nostalgia associated with this dish contribute to its lasting popularity.
