Tom Parker Bowles, son of Queen Camilla, has unveiled a time-honored recipe from the Royal Family’s culinary heritage—one that marries tradition with health benefits. Featured in his 2024 book, Cooking & The Crown, the dish reflects royal tastes from Queen Victoria’s era through to the reign of King Charles III.
The breakfast, known as “Herrings Fried in Oatmeal,” may sound unusual but has long been a favorite, notably enjoyed by Edward VII, Queen Elizabeth II’s great-grandfather. Tom praises the dish both for its flavor and its nutritional value, describing herrings as “cheap, sustainable, filled with lots of lovely omega-3 fatty acids and taste divine.”
Omega-3 fatty acids, often dubbed “healthy fats,” are essential nutrients found in fish, seafood, nuts, and seeds. These fats have been shown to offer substantial cardiovascular benefits and may lower the risk of heart disease, a critical factor in the UK where heart and circulatory diseases cause over 170,000 deaths each year, according to the British Heart Foundation.
Experts from the University of Rochester Medical Center explain the vital role of omega-3s: “Your body needs omega-3s but cannot produce them. They help prevent coronary heart disease and may slow its progression in those already affected.”
Beyond heart health, omega-3s are crucial for cognitive function. A 2012 study revealed that older adults with lower levels of DHA, a type of omega-3, experienced accelerated brain aging and reduced brain size. Nutritional scientist Toral Shah, consulting for fish oil company Wiley’s Finest, emphasizes, “The importance of omega-3 DHA for brain health and cognition is ever-evident. Just like a high-performance car, your brain needs premium fuel to function at its best.”
To recreate Tom’s royal breakfast, you’ll need just five core ingredients. The process involves gently frying herrings coated in butter, herbs, and oatmeal for four to six minutes before finishing with a splash of lemon juice and a dash of Tabasco for a zesty kick.
This classic dish offers a delicious and nutritious way to connect with royal tradition while fueling your body and mind.