Pizza, pasta, and tapas are among the top dishes Brits have tried to recreate at home – after having tucked into them on holiday, a study has found.
A continental breakfast is another favourite holiday meal to indulge in in their own homes – while 16% have tried to whip up some French toast, and an adventurous 18% have even attempted a Thai red or green curry.
Italian cuisine is the most likely to be replicated at home after a trip abroad, for 42% – followed by Spanish (37%), Greek (33%), French, and Chinese (both 20%).
The poll of 2,000 holidaymakers found that over a third (35%) have even visited a specialist supplier in the UK, to make sure they have the exact right ingredients to prepare their favourite holiday dish.
And, of those, one in six have ended up travelling at least 20 miles to find what they are looking for – with 37% willing to spend more money on these special ingredients.
Overall, nearly half (48%) of those who have enjoyed delicacies abroad, have tried to recreate these for family and friends back at home.
The research was commissioned by brioche brand, St Pierre, whose spokesman said: “Food is all about engaging the senses, and as such, it’s central to memory – which is why it is one of the best things about going on holiday for half of Brits.
“It’s no surprise that holidaymakers returning from foreign climes use food to transport them back to happy memories, and an authentic dining experience can add so much to a family get-together.
“And with 53% not taking a holiday abroad this year due to the cost of living, authentic ingredients and recipes for at-home dining will be more popular than ever.”
To further enhance the holiday atmosphere upon returning home, 12% play music from that country, and 8% decorate their dining rooms to make the experience more authentic – while 72% will spend up to three hours in the kitchen to recreate favourite dishes.
The research, carried out via OnePoll.com, also revealed that of those planning a staycation, 19% will replicate their favourite holiday meals regardless of being on home soil.
And 72% of those staying home this summer will spend more on their food shop to make it feel more like a holiday, while 44% will abandon a diet in order to indulge.
When it comes to holiday destinations, foodie Brits follow their appetite, with 16% admitting they have travelled somewhere purely for the food.
In fact, a quarter of those polled say food is the most important element to consider when it comes to choosing a holiday – ahead of how long it takes to get there (17%), the activities available (12%), and the language spoken (5%).
In terms of specific dishes holidaymakers have tried to recreate, 34% of those who have done so have attempted a particular pasta.
Meanwhile three in 10 have put together a Spanish-style tapas, and 16% have had a go at preparing Chinese chicken.
It also emerged that 32% have turned to the internet to search for UK ingredients that taste the same as exotic ones they’ve had while away – and 11% have even used a translator to make sure a recipe they’ve found is truly authentic.
St Pierre’s spokesman added: “Whether on holiday abroad or on home soil, 45% of Brits admit they change their diet when the weather is nice.
“And recreating food to trick ourselves into thinking we’re on holiday is already a summer habit for one in five (19%).
“Recreating just a few elements of a favourite trip can be enough to mentally take you away – which is why, for many, it’s worth spending a little extra to transport us back to our favourite destinations.”
TOP 10 CUISINES BRITS HAVE TRIED TO REPLICATE AT HOME:
- Italian
- Spanish
- Greek
- Chinese
- French
- American
- Indian
- Thai
- Turkish
- Tex-Mex
TOP 10 HOLIDAY DISHES BRITS HAVE TRIED TO REPLICATE AT HOME:
- Pasta
- Pizza
- Tapas
- Greek salad
- Greek mezze
- Continental breakfast (croissants, waffles, and pastries)
- Thai curry
- Chinese chicken
- French toast
- Americana-style burgers and hot dogs
