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10 must-try recipes from Rick Stein’s Food Stories

by Rachel Deeley

published on 12 September 2024, last updated on 19 August 2025

From Mexico to the Mediterranean, Rick Stein is known for his globe-trotting on-screen travelogues and bestselling cookbooks. But his latest culinary adventure is much closer to home.

Rick Stein’s Food Stories is a celebration of the diverse and ever-changing landscape of British food, and highlights the food growers, producers, chefs and home cooks keeping cuisines alive – from sea herb foraging on the shores of Scotland, to a Caribbean restaurant in Bristol.

It’s hard to choose favourites from the more than 100 mouth-watering recipes in this cookbook, but here are 10 of them we can’t wait to try.

Crumpets with Potted Shrimp & Poached Eggs

Buttery and rich, these homemade crumpets topped with delicately spiced potted shrimp are a comforting British classic.

Chickpea, Chorizo & Red Pepper Cazuela

Inspired by the growing popularity of small sharing plates, this flavour-packed tapas dish is perfect for entertaining.

Pan-Fried John Dory with Beer, Bacon & Lettuce

Pale ale and smoked bacon add the perfect complementary flavours for meaty fillets of John Dory.

Falafel with Tahini Dressing

Recreate Rick’s favourite falafel (from the Mr Falafel cafe in Shepherd’s Bush, London) along with a nutty tahini sauce, flatbread, and all your favourite toppings.

Paneer Jalfrezi

Flavoured with a base of cumin, Kashmiri chilli, ginger, and garlic, this easy veg curry pays homage to the incredible array of Indian food in Britain.

Roast Chicken with Pork, Apricot, Sage & Pistachio Stuffing Balls

For a classic Sunday roast with a twist, look no further than this recipe, complete with brined chicken, an easy homemade gravy, and perfectly charred stuffing.

Thai Red Duck & Pineapple Curry

Salty, sour, sweet, tangy, and spicy flavours combine to create depth and richness in this homemade version of a takeaway favourite.

Herdwick Mutton Hotpot

Be transported to the misty hills of the Lake District with this take on a classic hotpot.

Beef Chow Mein

An homage to the ‘legendary’ chow mein of Lee Hoo Fook in London’s Soho, this recipe uses beautifully tender strips of sirloin steak for the ultimate stir-fry.

Caramelised Bread & Butter Pudding with Sultanas & Apricot Glaze

A comforting classic (and great way to use up leftover bread), this version of bread and butter pudding uses a topping of icing sugar followed by warm apricot jam, for the ultimate indulgent finish.

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