No trip to Scotland would be complete without tasting these famous Scottish dishes:
● Haggis
Yes, you knew it was going to be on the list. Made from minced sheep’s pluck (liver, lungs and heart) mixed with spices and oatmeal and served inside the animal’s stomach lining, this is the quintessential Scottish dish. (Just make sure you try it before making up your mind about it!) The dish is so highly regarded in Scotland that one of the country’s most famous poems is called “Address to a Haggis,” by beloved Scottish poet Robert Burns. Since importation of haggis to the United States has been banned since 1971, your trip to Scotland might be your only chance to taste the real thing.
● Neeps and Tatties
Usually served with haggis, these side dishes are made of mashed root vegetables—“neeps” are turnips, and “tatties” are potatoes—cooked with butter and chives. They make a great pair!
● Porridge
Historically, porridge (also known as oatmeal, gruel or a variety of other names) was the staple carbohydrate in the Scottish diet. Then potatoes were introduced to the British Isles, and the dish’s popularity waned. Today, however, porridge finds itself at the center of the health food renaissance, and it’s readily available in haute restaurants across the country, as well as in pubs and simple eateries. It’s made with salt, not sugar, and is stirred with a “spurtle,” a special pointed spoon.
● The “Full Scottish”
The Scottish version of the classic English breakfast plate, this usually includes fried eggs, tomatoes, baked beans, ham or bacon, butter, bread and sometimes even haggis. Go ahead and ask for the “full Scottish” in the morning, but be warned. It might put you right back to bed.
● Bangers and Mash
Another iconic dish across the United Kingdom, bangers and mash is sausages and mashed potatoes. Though the classic variation uses pork sausage, around Scotland, expect to find more exotic varieties, such as venison or boar. The mashed potatoes are made with a generous portion of butter and salt.
● Black Pudding
Another infamous Scottish dish, this one is made of congealed blood and oats mixed together to form a sort of savory pudding. From basic chippies (fish and chips restaurants) to upscale eateries, black pudding is available all over. Give it a try. You might just be surprised!
● Scottish Tablet
Scottish tablet is sugar, condensed milk and butter cooked together into a chewy brick of sweetness and flavor. This Scottish dessert can be found all over the nation and in many different variations. Some even include exotic flavors, such as dates or whisky. It’s tasty, inexpensive and easy to pack, making it the perfect gift to bring back home!
● Shortbread
You might know what shortbread is, but did you know it was invented in Scotland? This tasty treat, which needs no introduction, has been a Scottish dessert staple since 1736. You’re likely to find the best of it in a shop that isn’t much younger than that.
Backroads Pro Tip
If you’re looking for an authentic Scottish dining experience, it doesn’t get much better than a Burns Supper. This is a formal dinner of three to seven courses hosted to celebrate the life of Scottish poet Robert Burns. You’re most likely to find one on January 25, Burns Night, the anniversary of his death, but they’re hosted year round, and they typically include traditional dancing, plenty of drinking and, of course, lots of haggis and whisky.
