10 classic 1970s dinners every British kid survived on – including 1 that made a comeback

Findus launched Crispy Pancakes in 1970, and they became an instant children’s favourite, filled with mince or cheese and ham. While they were discontinued by Findus in 2002, they were brought back to supermarkets by Birds Eye in 2019.

Another brand that grew in popularity in the seventies was Birds Eye, and particularly their fish fingers. A fuss-free freezer staple that could be served on the table within minutes, they were – and still are – a much-loved childhood favourite.

Pasta was becoming fashionable in the 1970s, and spaghetti bolognese was many families’ first taste of global cuisine. Of course, it is still a favourite meal to this day, and continues to be served up in British homes on a weekly basis.

Another convenient option that meant parents could serve up a hearty dinner in a matter of minutes, Fray Bentos pies feature puff pastry and a meat filling, such as chicken, steak and kidney, or minced beef and onion. These are another seventies staple that have stood the test of time, and are still available in supermarkets today.

Corned beef hash was a thrifty, hearty meal made from tinned corned beef, diced potatoes and onion, all fried together until crispy and golden. It was a staple of 1970s British family kitchens precisely because it was cheap, quick and used ingredients that every household kept in the cupboard.

Meanwhile, baked beans on toast was another staple tea for millions of kids as it is quick, easy and filling – and loved by kids and parents alike. Testament to its popularity, beans on toast is still a go-to for many families across the country 50 years on.

Vesta was one of the first ready meal brands to launch in the 1960s, and became increasingly popular in the 1970s. Owned by Batchelors, the meals primarily focused on Asian flavours, with offerings including curries and chow mein. You won’t find them in supermarkets anymore, but they can be purchased online.

Toad in the hole may have been around since at least the 18th century, but by the 1970s, it was a firm weekly staple in households across the country. Served with onion gravy, mashed potato and peas, it remains one of the most distinctly and proudly British dinners, and unlike many 1970s favourites, it has never really gone out of fashion.

Spam fritters became popular during the Second World War as a rationing staple, but Brits’ love of the crispy deep-fried meat slices continued well into the seventies, often served with chips and peas.

You’ll still find Spam in supermarkets now, but this battered version is something you’re unlikely to see served in British homes or cafés anymore.

McCain oven chips were launched in 1979 and genuinely changed British mealtimes, but prior to this chips were often homemade and deep fried. A weekly staple for families across the UK, egg and chips is quick, delicious and filling. What more could you want?