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Scotland boasts a rich culinary tradition extending beyond the well-known fried Mars bars, Irn Bru, and Buckfast. The nation offers an extensive array of delectable dishes and delightful treats that cater to diverse palates.
Remarkably, it is noteworthy that contemporary Scottish cuisine exhibits significant French influence.
Who would have guessed?
The culinary immersion can be traced back to the time when Mary Queen of Scots returned from France to Edinburgh, accompanied by her ardor for French cuisine, thus prompting a wave of French culinary influence within Scottish gastronomy.
1. Ashet of caboc cheese and oatcakes
A quintessential manifestation of French influence in Scottish cuisine can be found in an ashet of caboc cheese accompanied by oatcakes. An ashet, closely resembling a French assiette, signifies a platter. Caboc represents Scotland’s oldest cheese, characterized by its creamy texture, typically paired with oatcakes for a delightful snack.
2. A Plate of howtowdie
Another dish that mirrors French culinary tradition is howtowdie, a scrumptious Scottish offering featuring a small fowl served with spinach and poached eggs. This dish has held a special place in the hearts of Scots for centuries.
3. Burns night supper (haggis)
Annual celebrations of Robert Burns’ birth take place on January 25th, featuring a traditional Burns supper. This event typically highlights haggis, with or without vegetarian options, complemented with generous servings of Scotch whiskey.
4. Scottish tablet
Purely traditional and devoid of any French influence, Scottish tablet is a delightful confection. Comprising a generous amount of sugar, milk, butter, and condensed milk, it is cooked to produce a crumbly, fudge-like treat that is exceptionally satisfying for those with a sweet tooth.
5. Gigot of lamb
Gigot, influenced by French terms, denotes a leg of mutton (lamb) typically accompanied by potatoes, parsnips, and seasonal vegetables available in Scotland.
6. Whiskey mac & hot toddy
Despite not being a food item, a Whiskey Mac is a delightful blend of Scotch whiskey and ginger wine. For a warm alternative, try the hot toddy, which combines Scotch whiskey with hot water, cinnamon, honey, and spices, offering a cozy treat.
7. Stovies
Traditionally considered a worker’s meal, stovies consist of a hearty mix of seasonal vegetables, potatoes, and minced meat, making for a comforting dish on chilly winter days.
8. A bag of soor ploom
The origins of soor plooms extend back to the 1300s, crafted from sour plums. Nowadays, they are often found as hard, tart boiled sweets available at various traditional sweet shops across Scotland.
Explore Scotland’s diverse culinary landscape and relish the delectable flavors that have shaped its unique food culture.
