When travelling abroad, one thing that can excite many people but worry others is the food. Some look forward to trying new dishes and experiencing new tastes, while others worry that they’re going to go very hungry. The UK is known for its fairly ‘safe’ food with normal ingredients that won’t give any nasty surprises and instead has a variety of tasty traditional dishes that have a well-deserved good reputation. Each part of the UK also has its own specialities, and here we´ll take a look at Scotland. Not so obvious from the names of the dishes, we thought we’d give you a helping hand!

1.      Haggis

Perhaps the most famous Scottish dish, and not for everyone, Haggis is the national dish of Scotland that you really should try. It’s a savoury ‘pudding’ (actually eaten for a main meal) that contains offal from a sheep or calf that has been minced with oatmeal, suet, onion, spices and seasoning. And here’s why it’s famous…it’s then traditionally boiled and served in the animal’s stomach!

2.      Cullen Skink

The name might make you wary but there’s really no need as you’ll see for yourself when you try this warming, hearty dish. Smoked haddock, potatoes and onion are mixed together to form a creamy and chunky soup with a delicious smoky flavour. A fantastic comfort food, this hot soup will warm you right through on a cold Scottish day.

3.      Cock-a-leekie soup

Called ‘Scotland’s National Soup’, Cock-a-leekie soup is a chunky chicken and leek soup that’s thickened with barley. The traditional version contains prunes and many garnish the soup with a julienne of prunes, although this ingredient is not for everyone. When you try a steaming bowl of this tasty chicken soup, you’ll soon realize why it’s the nation’s favourite.

4.      Stovies

Ever wondered what to do with your leftovers from last night’s dinner? Stovies are the solution! Traditionally made from leftover roast beef, potatoes and onion, stovies can also be made with corned beef or minced beef and is a predominantly potato based dish. The key is to stew the potatoes in fat or stock before adding the meat. Stick to tradition and serve your stovies with oatcakes for mopping up the juice and some whisky to wash it all down with!

5.      Deep-fried Mars Bar

Time for dessert and this one can’t be missed! Invented in Scotland and now famous worldwide, the deep-fried Mars bar is calorie-filled treat you’ll want to try. It’s exactly what it says, a Mars bar that’s deep fried in a light batter and it’s best served with ice cream…or chips if you prefer!

So now your taste buds are tantalized and your curiosity for Scottish fare has been aroused, you can travel to Scotland and get your tongue around the language as well as the food! Are you ready to jet off and indulge? Send a quick enquiry to get you started!

Are there any other famous Scottish dishes you’d like to see added to this list?