11 Iconic Scottish Foods and Drinks You Can’t Miss on Your Next Visit
Scotland is not known for its cuisine, but it should be!
There is a whole variety of unique and delicious food and drinks to sample on your next trip to Scotland. You’d be missing out on a big part of Scottish culture, and the incredible experience of visiting Scotland, if you didn’t at least give a few of our local culinary delights a go.
You may know about Scottish haggis and Scotch whisky but what about the creamy Culin Skink and delicious dessert, Cranachan?
In this article, we’ll list 11 of the most iconic foods and drinks you need to try on your next visit!
Haggis
Haggis is Scotland's national dish, a savoury pudding containing sheep's pluck - the heart, liver and lungs - minced with onion, oatmeal, suet, spices and salt, mixed with stock and cooked while traditionally encased in the animal's stomach.
The origins of haggis likely date back to the 1400s. While the exact recipe has evolved, it was traditionally a dish of the Scottish peasantry, who made use of the less prized cuts of meat.
To make haggis, the sheep's pluck is boiled and then finely chopped along with the onions, suet and oatmeal. These ingredients are seasoned heavily with salt and spices like nutmeg, cinnamon and black pepper before being mixed into stock and packed into a casing, traditionally the sheep's stomach. The haggis is then simmered for several hours.
Today, haggis remains a staple of Burns Night celebrations and Scottish cuisine. For an authentic experience, try haggis at a local pub or restaurant while visiting Scotland, served with classic sides like mashed turnips and potatoes.
Cullen Skink
Cullen Skink is a traditional Scottish soup made with smoked haddock, potatoes, and onions. This hearty and comforting soup originates from the town of Cullen in Moray, Scotland.
The main ingredients in Cullen Skink are smoked haddock, potatoes, onions, and milk or cream. The smoked haddock gives the soup its signature smoky flavor. Potatoes are diced and cooked until soft, providing thickness and body to the soup. Onions are sautéed to add flavor and aroma. Milk or cream is then added to finish the soup and give it a rich, velvety texture.
There are many variations on the traditional recipe. Some versions may include leeks, carrots, parsley, or other vegetables. The proportions of fish, potato, and liquid can also be adjusted based on preference.
Cullen Skink can be made as a thin, brothy soup or a thick, creamy chowder.
The best place to sample authentic Cullen Skink is in northeast Scotland, near where it originated. Look for it on menus in local restaurants, cafes, and pubs when visiting cities like Aberdeen, Inverness, Elgin, or Banff. It's a popular everyday dish that showcases the fresh seafood and local ingredients of the region. Cullen Skink makes for a warming, comforting meal on a cold Scottish day.
Scottish Salmon
Salmon farming plays an important role in Scottish aquaculture and the economy. Scotland is one of the world's leading producers of farmed Atlantic salmon. Its cold, fast-flowing waters provide ideal conditions for raising high-quality salmon.
Scottish salmon live in the sea but return to freshwater streams to spawn. Farm-raised salmon are hatched in freshwater hatcheries before being transferred to sea pens along Scotland's coastlines. This allows the salmon to mature and grow rapidly in the sea while being protected from predators.
The flavour and texture of Scottish salmon is exceptional due to the fish's natural, wild diet of krill, shrimp and small fish. Their high fat content results in a buttery, rich taste and smooth, delicate texture when cooked. Scottish salmon has a deep orange-pink hue and firm flesh.
Salmon is incredibly versatile and can be prepared in many ways. Popular Scottish salmon dishes include smoked salmon, salmon fillet, gravadlax and salmon fishcakes. Salmon is also delicious when simply grilled, baked or pan-fried. Scottish smoked salmon is world-renowned, with subtle smoky flavours that complement the fish.
Overall, Scottish salmon is considered among the finest quality salmon globally. Its superior taste and texture make it a highly desirable fish, both locally and for export around the world.
Cranachan
Cranachan is a traditional Scottish dessert made with whipped cream, honey, fresh raspberries, and toasted oats. It's a simple yet delicious treat that showcases some of Scotland's iconic ingredients.
The base of cranachan is lightly toasted Scottish oats, which provide a lovely nutty crunch. The oats are mixed together with lightly whipped cream, adding a rich and silky texture. Tart raspberries are then gently folded into the cream and oats. To finish, the cranachan is drizzled with a generous amount of honey. The honey adds a subtle sweetness that perfectly balances out the tartness of the raspberries.
There are a few variations on traditional cranachan. Some recipes add a splash of whisky for a boozy twist. Others include different fruits like strawberries or blueberries. While the classic version uses heavy cream, it's also tasty made with yogurt or mascarpone cheese for a lighter dessert.
Cranachan makes an ideal way to finish a Scottish meal. It's often served at celebratory occasions like weddings, birthdays, and holidays. You can find cranachan at high-end restaurants that focus on traditional Scottish cuisine. It's also frequently offered as a dessert at Scottish-style tea rooms and cafes. For an authentic experience, try cranachan at a restaurant in Scotland that sources local ingredients. The fresh Scottish raspberries and honey make all the difference in flavour.
Shortbread
Shortbread is a traditional Scottish biscuit that is crumbly and made using butter, flour, and sugar. It has a long history in Scotland.
Shortbread originated in the 12th century during the time of Mary Queen of Scots. It was originally a luxury treat made with expensive ingredients like butter and wheat flour. Shortbread was served during holiday celebrations like Christmas and New Year's.
Traditional shortbread recipes call for a simple combination of flour, butter, and sugar. The butter is the key ingredient, usually making up at least half of the total ingredients. Often the butter is softened rather than completely melted to achieve the signature crumbly, flaky texture. Traditional shortbread doesn't contain any leavening agents and relies solely on the butter for tenderness.
Some excellent places to buy traditional Scottish shortbread include the Edinburgh Shortbread House, Walkers Shortbread, and Dean's Shortbread. These brands use time-honored recipes and high-quality ingredients. Their shortbread comes in various shapes like rounds, fingers, and petticoat tails. Shortbread also makes a wonderful Scottish souvenir or gift.
Scotch Whisky
Scotch whisky is synonymous with Scotland. It's produced at over 130 distilleries across the country, each imparting their own unique characteristics based on the water source, peating levels, and distillation methods.
The five main whisky producing regions in Scotland are the Highlands, Lowlands, Islay, Campbeltown, and Speyside. The Highlands and Speyside are known for their floral, fruity single malts while Islay whiskies have a distinctive smoky, peaty flavor. Some of the most famous distilleries to visit for tours and tastings include The Glenlivet, Glenfiddich, and The Macallan in Speyside; Oban and Talisker in the Highlands; Lagavulin and Laphroaig on Islay; and Springbank in Campbeltown.
A sip of Scotch whisky offers an explosion of complex flavors like honey, vanilla, spice, chocolate, and dried fruit along with the signature smoky undertones. On the palate, it provides a smooth, rich mouthfeel and a lingering finish. For newcomers to Scotch, starting with a Speyside single malt can provide an accessible introduction before exploring the bold, peated whiskies of Islay.
If you’d like to know more about Scottish whisky distilleries, check out our list of the top 10 distilleries in Scotland here.
Tablet
Tablet is a traditional Scottish candy that has a hard, brittle texture and a sweet flavor. It is made from sugar, condensed milk, and butter, cooked to a fudge-like consistency before being poured into pans and allowed to set.
The origins of tablet date back several centuries to when sugar first became more widely available in Europe. It became popular in Scotland as a sweet treat, especially for festive occasions. The name is derived from the French "tablette" meaning a small, flat piece.
Traditionally, tablet was made in large batches during winter and then broken up into pieces when needed. It stores well so was an ideal candy to have on hand. Each family had their own variation, tweaking the recipe with different sugars or flavourings. Popular options included adding vanilla, coffee, chocolate or peppermint.
Today tablet remains a nostalgic treat in Scotland. It can be found at most local bakeries, candy shops and delis. Some brands like Lees and Gordon's are well known for their tablet. It's a staple item around holidays like Christmas, New Year's and birthdays. Tablet makes a great edible souvenir of Scotland.
Black Pudding
Black Pudding is a traditional blood sausage originating from the British Isles. It is known for its distinctive flavour and rich, savoury taste.
Black Pudding dates to the medieval kitchens of the British Isles. This humble sausage was made from pig’s blood, oats, barley, and a blend of spices, providing a hearty and nourishing meal for the working class. It has since evolved into a beloved staple of British cuisine, especially popular in Scotland.
The classic Black Pudding recipe includes pig’s blood, suet, oats, barley, and a mix of seasonings such as pepper, salt, and onion. These ingredients are combined and then stuffed into a casing before being cooked. The oats and barley not only act as fillers but also give Black Pudding its unique texture and earthy flavor. The high iron content from the blood makes it especially nutritious although less appetising for some!
Porridge
Porridge is a traditional Scottish breakfast made from oats and water or milk. It is celebrated for its simplicity, nourishment, and historical significance in Scottish cuisine.
Porridge has been a staple in Scotland for centuries, dating back to the early medieval period. It was originally a basic, hearty meal that sustained the Scottish people through harsh winters and long working days. Its enduring popularity speaks to its effectiveness as a comforting and sustaining food.
Traditional Scottish porridge is made with rolled or pinhead oats, water or milk, and a pinch of salt. The oats are slowly simmered to a creamy consistency, often cooked in a pot over a low flame.
This method helps to release the oats' natural starches, creating a smooth and satisfying texture. Porridge can be enjoyed plain or with various toppings such as honey, fruit, or a sprinkle of sugar.
Fish Supper
A Scottish fish supper is a traditional dish consisting of battered and fried fish, typically served with chips. This iconic meal is deeply rooted in Scottish culinary culture and is a beloved takeaway choice across the country.
The fish supper's origins can be traced back to the 19th century when the first fish and chip shops appeared in Scotland. Initially a working-class staple, it quickly gained popularity for its affordability and satisfying nature. Over time, the fish supper has become a cherished part of Scottish heritage, often enjoyed on Friday nights and special occasions.
A classic Scottish fish supper features haddock or cod, dipped in a light, crispy batter and deep-fried to golden perfection. The fish is accompanied by thick-cut chips, which are also fried until they are crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside.
Traditionally, the dish is served with salt and vinegar, and sometimes accompanied by mushy peas or tartar sauce.
Some excellent places to enjoy a traditional Scottish fish supper include Anstruther Fish Bar in Fife, known for its award-winning fish and chips, and The Ashvale in Aberdeen, which offers generous portions and a variety of seafood options. These establishments use fresh, locally sourced fish and follow time-honoured frying techniques to ensure an authentic taste. The Scottish fish supper remains a favorite, celebrated for its simplicity, deliciousness, and cultural significance.
Scotch Pie
The Scotch pie is a savory pie filled with minced meat and vegetables that originated in Scotland. It consists of a flaky pastry shell that encases a filling of ground beef or mutton along with onions, carrots, and seasoning. The meat filling is slow-cooked so it becomes very tender and full of flavor.
Scotch pies likely developed as a way for Scottish workers to carry a hearty meal with them that could be eaten by hand. The first recorded mention of the Scotch pie dates back to the 16th century. Over time, it became a staple food item across Scotland.
Today, Scotch pies can be found everywhere from bakeries to football stadiums. They are available in different sizes, from individual hand pies to larger family-sized pies.
The pies are often served piping hot, making them perfect for warming up on a cold Scottish day. Some of the best Scotch pies are baked fresh daily at local butcher shops and bakeries throughout Scotland.
When trying an authentic Scotch pie, look for a golden crispy crust and a moist, savory filling. The ideal balance of flavors comes from the mixture of beef, onions, and seasoning. Scotch pies are meant to be eaten by hand, letting you savor the flaky pastry and rich filling in each bite. It's a hearty and comforting Scottish food you'll want to be sure to try during any visit to Scotland.
So there you have it, a must-taste list of Scottish cuisine. Make sure you at least try the items on this list! Of course, it doesn’t end there. This list could go on and on… if you like the taste of haggis, try it deep-fried or as a haggis bon-bon. If you love fresh fish, head to the coast and try or range of local smoked and fresh fish.
There is something for everyone, just get stuck in!
