Exploring Scotland: A Culinary Adventure

Scotland, a land of rugged landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture, is also a haven for food and drink enthusiasts. 

From the bustling streets of Edinburgh to the serene lochs of the Highlands, Scotland offers a diverse culinary scene that caters to every palate. 

Whether you're a fan of traditional dishes, innovative gastronomy, or exquisite whiskies, this guide will help you uncover the best food and drink offerings during your visit to Scotland.

Traditional Scottish Fare

Haggis, Neeps, and Tatties

No visit to Scotland is complete without trying its national dish – haggis. This savoury pudding, made from sheep's offal mixed with suet, oatmeal, and spices, is traditionally served with neeps (turnips) and tatties (potatoes). While the description might not sound appealing to everyone, haggis is a flavourful and hearty dish that embodies Scottish heritage. Look for it in traditional pubs and restaurants across the country. Vegan/vegetarian haggis is also available.

Scottish Salmon

Scotland is renowned for its high-quality seafood, and Scottish salmon is a standout. Whether smoked, grilled, or poached, the rich and delicate flavour of Scottish salmon is unmatched. For a truly memorable experience, visit the Loch Fyne Oyster Bar, where you can enjoy fresh salmon with stunning views of the loch.

Cullen Skink

This traditional Scottish soup hails from the town of Cullen in Moray. Made with smoked haddock, potatoes, and onions, Cullen skink is a creamy and comforting dish perfect for warming up on a chilly day. You'll find it on menus in coastal towns and cities, offering a taste of Scotland's maritime heritage.

Modern Scottish Cuisine

The Kitchin, Edinburgh

For a contemporary twist on Scottish cuisine, The Kitchin in Edinburgh is a must-visit. Michelin-starred chef Tom Kitchin combines seasonal Scottish ingredients with French techniques, creating dishes that are both innovative and rooted in tradition. From venison to langoustines, the menu celebrates Scotland's natural larder.

Ubiquitous Chip, Glasgow

Located in Glasgow's West End, Ubiquitous Chip is a legendary institution that has been serving elevated Scottish cuisine since 1971. The restaurant's focus on local and sustainable ingredients results in dishes like venison haggis, scallops with Stornoway black pudding, and a delightful selection of Scottish cheeses.

Sweet Treats

Cranachan

For dessert, indulge in cranachan, a traditional Scottish treat made with raspberries, whipped cream, honey, toasted oats, and a splash of whisky. This simple yet delicious dessert is a celebration of Scotland's natural produce and a sweet way to end any meal.

Tablet

Scottish tablet is a confection similar to fudge but with a crumblier texture. Made with sugar, condensed milk, and butter, it's incredibly sweet and utterly irresistible. Look for it in sweet shops and markets across Scotland, and be sure to take some home as a tasty souvenir.

Whisky: The Water of Life

Speyside Distilleries

Scotland is synonymous with whisky, and no visit would be complete without exploring its famous distilleries. Speyside, in the northeast, is home to some of the most renowned distilleries, including Glenfiddich, Macallan, and Aberlour. Take a tour to learn about the whisky-making process and enjoy tastings of their finest single malts.

Islay Malts

For those who prefer a peaty dram, the island of Islay is a whisky lover's paradise. Distilleries like Laphroaig, Ardbeg, and Lagavulin produce some of the most distinctive and robust whiskies in the world. The smoky, maritime flavours of Islay malts are a true taste of Scotland's rugged coastline.

Craft Beer and Gin

BrewDog, Aberdeen

Scotland's craft beer scene is thriving, and BrewDog in Aberdeen is at the forefront. Known for its bold and innovative brews, BrewDog has gained a global following. Visit their flagship bar to sample a wide range of beers, from hoppy IPAs to rich stouts.

The Edinburgh Gin Distillery

Gin has seen a resurgence in popularity, and Scotland boasts some exceptional gin distilleries. The Edinburgh Gin Distillery offers tours and tastings where you can learn about the botanicals that give their gins their unique flavours. Try their signature Edinburgh Gin or one of their seasonal specialities.

Conclusion

Scotland's culinary landscape is as diverse and captivating as its scenery. From traditional dishes steeped in history to modern culinary masterpieces, and from world-class whiskies to innovative craft beers and gins, there's something for every food and drink enthusiast. So, pack your appetite and set off on a culinary adventure through Scotland – a land where every meal tells a story and every sip is a journey.

https://www.visitscotland.com/

Primary School kids grow tatties for Turriff Show

On Friday 26th May, former Turriff Show President and farmer, Graeme Mackie, from Little Hilton Farm, visited Monquhitter Primary School and met pupils from the school’s Friday Eco-group to plant potatoes, locally known in the Doric as tatties, in time to harvest at 2023’s two-day northeast Turriff agricultural Show.

These tatties will be harvested on both days of the show and will be employed to create delicious dishes by Chef, Catriona Frankitti. Catriona will be the host to the Chefs and Scottish produce in Turriff Show’s cookery theatre this year, as part of the EQ Food and Drink marquee exhibition.   

Graeme Mackie said of the children's project, “Rolling up their sleeves to plant, care for and watch their food grow gives the children involved a real sense of pride in their work and an enhanced appreciation for the food on their plates. Being actively involved in growing food, demonstrates the work and time farmers put into yielding a crop, making food all that more valuable.”  

Monquhitter Primary School already has its own polytunnel growing an abundance of produce,  strawberries, mixed salad leaves, onions, carrots, peas, broad beans, and radishes. Every year-group oversees a raised bed and together, parents, teachers and students get involved in ‘plant care’.  

Primary Teacher Miss Garven says, “Sustainability is a huge part of our curriculum. Many students learn by doing rather than watching. Growing food of their own motivates children to be more aware of the benefits of eating nutritious foods and encourages them to eat a fruit or vegetable that they may not have ever tried before.” 

Gathered outside the school polytunnel, the young boys and girls were eager to get started, with trowels at the ready, as Mr Mackie gave an enlightening talk on the planting and harvesting of the tatties.  

“What we are planting here today is a variety of tatties named ‘Charlotte’ a salad type with a buttery flavour and versatility for many meals. These potatoes will be ready to harvest in two and a half to three months, in time for this year’s Turriff Show,” explained Mr Mackie.  

The group of students got straight to work, carting soil from the trailer and into their individual tubs. Recycling empty livestock feed and mineral tubs, Mr Mackie, and the team of young learners, planted the potatoes and carefully levelled off the soil.  

Mr Mackie exclaimed, “Some children head to the supermarket with mum and dad and that’s where they believe food comes from. It's vitally important for all those involved in agriculture to pass on their knowledge to the younger generation. We are responsible for filling that missing link between farm and supermarket.”  

The children helped to carry the tubs back into the trailer. They gave Mr Mackie a tour of the Polytunnel and raised beds. The school pupils explained to Mr Mackie that once the produce was ready to be harvested, they would dig it up and hand it to the school kitchen to prepare and be used for school dinners. 

The children all hope to attend this year’s Turriff Show to take delight in witnessing their tatties being harvested and prepped into a wholesome meal.