#1. Arbroath Smokies
Created originally in Arbroath, this type of haddock goes through traditional processes that were first used in the 1800s. To preserve the fish, it is first salted overnight, then the haddock is cooked over a very hot, smoky, and humid fire where it cooks for about an hour.
To stop the fish from burning, it is important to use thick smoke and intense heat. This gives the fish a unique smoky smell and taste that is expected from Arbroath Smokies.
#2. Fish Supper
Is Fish Supper One Of the Typical Scottish Meals?
Also called Fish n’ Chips, this fish is fried in batter and served with deep-fried chips and has turned into one of the staple meals in the UK. The flavors added to the Fish Supper is one of those divided topics. For example, in Glasgow it is very common to add vinegar and salt. While in Edinburg, the more popular option includes combining malt vinegar and brown sauce, better known as “chippy sauce”, or just “sauce”. Make sure you try both to choose your favorite.
There are several famous Chippies (Fish and Chip shops) in Scotland, and people travel from a long distance to enjoy this comfort greasy food. We suggest the Anstruther Fish Bar located along the Fife coast. You can enjoy their renowned chippies on one of our St Andrews day tours.
#3. Hand-Divided West Coast Scallops
Hand-divided scallops often cost more than 50% of the price of scallops trawled by the dredgers. However, an increased awareness on how food is sourced in more sustainable and ethical manners has resulted in consumers that are prepared to pay premium prices for hand-dived artisan scallop.
#4. Smoked Salmon
Scotland is known to have among the most superior quality salmon across the globe. Thanks to such a large coastline you will always be close to the best fish you can find. Try one of our day tours to Oban to enjoy premium shellfish and smoked salmon.
Find the perfect hotel to enjoy a trip to Scotland at My Hotel Break Edinburgh.
#5. Aberdeen Angus Beef
Angus beef in Scotland comes from a hornless cattle breed that originated from Aberdeenshire, close to the North-East of Scotland. This cattle is usually red or black in color and can now be found in many countries across the globe. This beef is advertised as superior due to the marbling that improves tenderness and flavor, while keeping the meat much moister while cooking.
#6. Porridge
This hot cereal is made from cooking up a grain such as oats in either milk or water. It is a highly popular breakfast for most Scots. Syrup, fruit, honey, or sugar is added to boost the flavor. Our friends from North America call this dish oatmeal. This meal is not only healthy but a great source of fiber keeping you fuller for longer.
#7. Haggis
Perhaps the most renowned dish in Scotland, this dish is made up of sheep’s liver, lungs, and heart mixed with salt, stock, spices, and oatmeal. The traditional way to prepare this meal involved cooking the contents in the stomach of an animal. Today, however, it is usually cooked in artificial casings. Some people hate it, while others love it. You will need to decide for yourself.
#8. Black Pudding
Made from the blood of pork, with beef suet or pork fat, and either a cereal such as barley groats, oat groats, or oatmeal. The cereal in high proportion along with using a spice like pennyroyal, distinguishes the Scottish black pudding from the blood sausages that are consumed in other countries around the world.
Stornoway is said to be among the best-tasting black puddings. On our Isle of Lewis tour, we offer an overnight stay, so if you feel brave enough, we suggest giving it a shot.
#9. Full Scottish Breakfast
Full breakfasts in Scotland, shares the ingredients used in a full English breakfast. This includes baked beans, back bacon, eggs, link sausage, toast with butter, and coffee or tea. However, it could also include a few distinctive Scottish additions such as Lorne sausage, black pudding and something known as a “tattie scone” (potato scone).
#10. Oatcakes
Oats is among the very few grains which grow well in Scotland, and until the 20th century, was one of the staple grains used. Oatcakes involve oatmeal that is cooked on a baking tray or gridle. They contain low-GI, slow-digesting carbs, that will keep you feeling full for a couple of hours. It is also a much healthier alternative to bread.
The well-known commercial brands of these products include Walkers, Paterson’s, and Nairn’s.