Scotland is a wonderful country, full of unique foods and drinks – just like any country, it has a cuisine of its own. So, no matter if you are visiting for the first or the fifth time, we are here to help you find some of the best food and drink that will help understand the Scottish food scene.
And we’re not just talking about Haggis, Neeps, and Tatties!
Haggis; The Big One
Let’s get the one everyone thinks of first out of the way!
Haggis is one of Scotland’s most famous and well-known foods that represents the best of Scottish cooking; using every part of the animal and adding lots of flavour and spices. Of course, there are vegetarian and vegan haggis options nowadays too which taste just as good!
Of course, be it meat-based haggis or not, the dish has tradition attached as well. Often it will rear its head at Scottish celebrations such as Burns Nights, Hogmanay, and local Ceilidhs. If you haven’t already, give it a try! Or if you are a meat-eater, why not give the non-meat Haggis a taste?
Fish Supper
The fish supper has long been a staple of the Scottish food scene, and fish, in general, has played a huge role in Scottish culture and history. Fish like the mackerel are often found smoked, with pepper and lime as seasoning.
But nowadays you can go to a chippy (fish and chip shop) and get yourself a fish supper; usually Cod or Haddock fried in crispy batter, served with a side of chips.
It is especially common to see Scottish people scoff a fish supper after a night out in the town, so indulging on one after a night out at a bar is a superb way to end your night on a high.
But it doesn’t stop there, we even deep-fry pizzas and mars bars!
Get Your Morning Started Right!
When travelling Scotland, with all our hills and glens, do yourself a favour and grab a classic Scottish breakfast before you head out. Or, if you did in fact go a little harder than you thought on your last night out, then this is a great way to battle your hangover.
A full Scottish fry-up hits just right.
What you will normally find on your plate in a traditional Scottish breakfast is:
- Fried eggs
- Fried mushrooms
- Sausages (either link or square)
- Baked beans
- Haggis (yes, really)
- Tattie scones (potato scones)
- Black pudding
- Grilled Tomato
- Toast
We really go all out with our breakfasts here in Scotland!
Tennents
Another classic from Scotland! Scottish people tend to be known for their drinking habits, and so you are probably wondering what the most popular lager in Scotland is?
Look no further than a pint of Tennents. It is a common thing to hear people calling out for a “tin of T” in the streets of Scotland. And you can’t miss it. The iconic ‘Red T’ is practically an icon for a crisp, refreshing pint everywhere across the country.
Whether you are looking for something that gluten free, alcohol-free, or just a regular pint, Tennants has you covered.
Scotch
And what list would be complete about Scottish foods and drinks without the world renowned Scotch Whiskey?
There are dozens upon dozens of distilleries in Scotland; from the Dalwhinnie distillery high up in the Western highlands to the Wolfburn Distillery on the Northern Coast. What they all have in common is making great whiskey. Be sure to try some while you’re there!
To Conclude
These are some of the many great Scottish foods and drinks that you can try to help get a better understanding of Scotland and its culture.
So get stuck in and don’t be shy!