Scottish culinary specialties: 15 dishes to try

The Scottish culinary specialties They go far beyond haggis. From comforting soups and smoked fish to quality meats and whisky-infused desserts, the country's cuisine reflects its landscapes and climate. Having lived in Edinburgh since 2012, we present the dishes to try and where to find them.

In short: National dish: haggis, served with neeps and tatties, is featured at Burns Supper on January 25th. Other dishes to try include: Cullen skink, Scotch broth, Arbroath smokies, smoked salmon, and Aberdeen Angus beef. Desserts include: cranachan, shortbread, tablet, and Dundee cake. Scottish breakfasts are distinguished by tattie scones and sometimes a slice of haggis.

Haggis, the Scottish national dish

First, haggis is traditionally prepared with sheep offal, oats, onions and spices. It is served with "neeps and tatties", that is to say a puree of swede and potatoes.

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Every January 25th, Scotland pays tribute to him with Burns Supper, in honor of the poet Robert Burns. Excellent vegetarian versions are also available and served in most pubs. We also recount this evening in our guide to... Scottish traditions.

Scottish culinary specialties as a starter

• Cullen skink, a creamy soup with smoked haddock, potatoes and onions, originated in the village of Cullen.
• Scotch broth, a barley and vegetable broth with lamb.
• Scottish smoked salmon, often served with rye bread.
• Arbroath smokies, hot-smoked haddock from the small town of Arbroath, protected by a European designation.

Meat and fish: Scottish culinary specialties

First, Aberdeen Angus beef is renowned worldwide. The tourist office VisitScotland It also lists producers and addresses by region. Highland lamb and game, particularly venison and pheasant, are also often on the menu in autumn.

On the seafood side, the langoustines, oysters, and scallops from the west coast are of excellent quality. Many are exported, but seaside restaurants serve very fresh ones.

Scottish breakfast

Next, a full Scottish breakfast generally includes eggs, bacon, sausages, beans, mushrooms, and grilled tomato. However, it differs from the English breakfast in two ways: the tattie scone, a potato pancake, and sometimes a slice of haggis or black pudding.

Porridge, served plain or with a drizzle of cream, remains a breakfast classic, especially in Highland B&Bs.

Desserts: Sweet Scottish culinary specialties

• Cranachan, made with whipped cream, raspberries, toasted oatmeal and whisky.
• Shortbread, a very buttery shortbread, ideal as a souvenir.
• The tablet, a sugar confectionery, is more crumbly than fudge.
• The Dundee cake, a dried fruit cake decorated with almonds.

What to drink in Scotland?

Whisky remains, of course, the country's iconic drink. Scottish gins, however, are also very popular, as are craft beers. Irn-Bru, a very sweet orange soda, is a local institution.

To discover whisky production, follow our guide to distilleries of Scotland or our whisky route.

Where can I taste Scottish culinary specialties?

In Edinburgh, for example, the historic pubs and restaurants of Leith offer modern Scottish cuisine. In Glasgow, the West End district boasts a number of excellent options. On the west coast and in the islands, opt for small harbor restaurants for seafood.

Finally, farmers' markets, like the one in Edinburgh on Saturdays, also offer the chance to sample local cheeses, cured meats, and pastries. Find more ideas in our guide to learn more What to do in Edinburgh.

Frequently asked questions about Scottish culinary specialties

What is the national dish of Scotland?

Haggis, served with neeps and tatties. It can be enjoyed all year round, and especially during Burns Supper on January 25th. Also discover how the Burns Night in Scotland.

Does haggis have a vegetarian version?

Yes, it's very common. Most pubs and restaurants offer one, made with vegetables, oats and spices.

What culinary delights should you bring back from Scotland?

Instead, bring back shortbread, tablets, vacuum-packed smoked salmon, or a bottle of whisky. However, check customs regulations regarding alcohol.

Is the food good in Scotland?

Yes, because the cuisine has modernized considerably in recent years. The seafood, meats, and local cheeses are of excellent quality.

Discover Scottish cuisine with Brightside Travel

Our team lives locally and selects the places we recommend. We can incorporate tastings, markets, and meetings with producers into your tailor-made trip to Scotland.

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