Whether you’re treating yourself to a cosy night in with some great food or you simply can’t be bothered to cook tonight, it’s fair to say that there’s nothing this country loves more than a good takeaway. In fact, many more of us have become hooked on takeaways for some much-needed variety during the lockdown. With so many delicious takeaway options to choose from, it can be difficult to remember just how many different cuisines you could order in and enjoy at home. Earlier this year, YouGov ran a poll to find the UK’s favourite takeaway, and the results make for some great inspiration if you’re trying to decide what to order tonight…
1. Chinese
It’s official: Chinese takeaway comes out on top as the nation’s favourite, with 25% saying it’s their top choice for a night in. From chicken chow mein and sweet ‘n’ sour pork to dim sum to mouthwatering crispy duck pancakes with oodles of rich hoisin sauce, there’s loads of variety in a Chinese takeaway, which possibly explains its success. Whether your preference is for crispy noodles, egg-fried rice, veggie stir fry or steamed dumplings, your local Chinese restaurant is sure to hit the spot.
2. Indian
Everyone has their go-to Indian takeaway order, and 17% of us say it’s our favourite takeaway of all. Indian cuisine has been so successful here in the UK that it’s spawned whole new dishes for the British market, like the ubiquitous chicken tikka masala, which was first conjured up by Bangladeshi chefs back in the 1960s. There’s an Indian takeaway to suit every taste, from mild dishes such as creamy kormas or butter chicken for those with a low tolerance for spicy foods, and fiery choices such as vindaloo. Enhance your meal with plenty of poppadoms, rice and naan – served with a big pot of mango chutney. Delicious!
3. Fish and chips
You can’t get more typically British than good old fish ‘n’ chips, which 16% of Brits choose as their favourite takeaway. It’s been hugely popular with the UK public – whether they live by the sea or not – since the 1860s. Traditionally served in newspapers, there’s room for personal preference in how you enjoy your battered cod and chips. Will you enjoy yours with lashings of vinegar, or are you more of a ketchup and mayo person? Or maybe even tartare sauce… Decisions, decisions!
4. Pizza
Whether your preference is for authentic thin and crispy Italian-style pizza or you prefer deep pan pizza with thick, doughy crusts (maybe even stuffed with cheese) if pizza is your favourite takeaway you’re in the 12% of Brits who’ve picked it as their top choice. Those aged 18-24 were more likely to pick it as their favourite. With so many toppings to choose from, you could have takeaway pizza every night and it could still feel like a different meal each time. The question is, where do you sit on the great ‘pineapple on pizza’ debate?
5. Thai
Arguably more of a niche option, Thai is nevertheless the top takeaway choice of 3% of Brits, and it’s not hard to see why. The delightfully aromatic flavours of Thai cooking make it a pleasant change for the tastebuds, and it’s by no means all spicy. From the classic red or green Thai curries to Pad Thai (Thai fried noodles), Thai takeaway menus have a host of favourites to offer, whether you like your food hot or not.
6. Kebabs
While many Brits associate kebabs with ordering from a kebab van at the end of a messy night out, they’re the favourite takeaway of 3% of us. This meaty Middle Eastern staple comes in a variety of forms, the most popular being the classic lamb doner – shavings of vertically-roasted lamb served in a pitta, with extras such as lettuce, tomato and onion and a dash of chilli sauce. For a different and equally delicious option, try Greek kebabs – souvlaki – which is skewered meat in a slice of pitta bread, complete with tomato, onion and a big dollop of tzatziki.
7. Chicken and burgers
With 2% of the vote each, takeaway chicken and burgers also make it to the list of the nation’s favourite takeaways, and given the enduring popularity of fast food outlets such as McDonald’s, Burger King, KFC and Nando’s, it’s not surprising. From chicken nuggets to spicy chicken wings, and from classic dirty burgers to elaborate creations loaded with pulled pork, cheese, bacon and all manner of other decadent toppings, the UK has plenty to choose from when it’s in the mood for chicken or burgers. And they’re not just for meat-eaters. You can’t beat a good veggie burger, whether it’s made with squeaky halloumi, a sumptuous portobello mushroom or deliciously spicy Mexican beans.
8. Sushi
One of the great things about takeaways is that they let you enjoy food that would be difficult to prepare at home. Sushi – the favourite takeaway of 1% of Brits – is the classic example of just such a cuisine. With an intricate process used to create it, sushi is almost an art form, whether we’re talking delicate sashimi, deep-fried tempura or beautifully rolled temakizushi. Don’t forget to add some miso soup to your order for the perfect Japanese experience.
If this rundown of the country’s favourite takeaways has whetted your appetite (our tummies are rumbling writing this!), get ordering at ChefOnline and get ready for a fantastic meal you won’t have to cook yourself. Whatever food mood you’re in, your favourite takeaway is merely moments away… Bon appetit!
