British Food

Rocket leaves are not spicy. They are just a green leaf that is often used in British salads. It's not crisp like lettuce, so it's usually seen in a mixed green salad. It has a buttery flavor.

I think you would know rocket as Arugula. And no not spicy.

Thank you Nancy.I would never guess it by its name. I was thinking more like a chili pepper.

Arugula (rocket) actually has a slight peppery taste to it, subtle but it's there.

How about this for a British meal that sounds spicy but isn't at all: Bangers and Mash with a side of rocket leaves and flaming pudding.

Arugula can be quite peppery/bitter, I've particularly noticed it with organically grown older strains. I'd never use the word buttery to describe it. It's usually very noticeable. Looks rather like a weed. :)

Yes, I've read that organically grown rocket leaves can have a stronger taste. They are also smaller in size.

The first time I had rocket letter, i thought it was a bit bitter.

But after a while it grows on you.

Rockets are very popular in the UK. Try a Rocket salad - rocket lettuce, cheese, balsamic vingar, and olive oil.

It is sometimes listed on menu as roquette--not spicy at all, but maybe a bit peppery. Also seen on menus is Lamb's Lettuce (mild & buttery) which can be purchased as Mache and sometimes includes the tiny, but edible and tasty, roots.

It was my impression that most British food is lacking spice, with the exception of curry/Indian food.

I had a lovely rocket, pear and gorgonzola salad at The Witchery in Edinburgh. Amy, neither is American food necessarily spicy.

I haven't noticed "Rocket" to be particulary spicy. When included with other food, it just tastes like Lettuce.

Regarding British food, I really like the full English Breakfasts that most Hotels/B&B's serve, but I draw the line at Black Pudding!

Happy travels!

Ken, have you tried black pudding (also called blood sausage)? It's delish. My son lives on it while in England and even France!