December, 2021
CCL Property specialise in the sale of businesses and commercial properties. We offer cafes, restaurants, guesthouses, hotels, pubs and more, and so we think we know a thing or two about traditional Scottish meals. Take a look at our culinary guide to mouth-watering Scottish cuisine.
When you picture mouth-watering Scottish cuisine, what comes to mind? For many, the iconic national dish of Haggis may be at the top of the list. However, with such a rich and diverse history and food culture, Scottish cuisine encapsulates so much more.
We delve into the top must-try traditional Scottish foods that will leave you aching for a food-tasting trip around the bustling cities, picturesque villages and stunning Lochs of Scotland.
Rich and succulent meat encased in rich, double-crusted pastry; Scotch pies are a delicious savoury treat. Typically made from minced mutton, the pies are often also made from a variety of meats and can be served either hot or cold, making them perfect for sit-down meals or on the go. Scotch pies are in no short supply and can be found at a range of takeaway restaurants or bakeries around Scotland. Why not try the winner of the 2020 World Scotch Pie Champion of Champions award, James Pirie & Son in Newtyle, a village in the west of Angus.
As iconic as the Loch Ness Monster, haggis is Scotland’s very own iconic national dish. While it may not sound like the most appetising dish on paper, haggis consists of richly flavoured sausage meat, made from the innards of a sheep, mixed with onions, oatmeal, stock, suet, and various seasonings to give it its warm, filling and unique flavour. A must-try for any visitor, some of the best haggis can be found at Urquhart’s Restaurant in Inverness.
Typically found accompanying the traditional Scottish dish of haggis, neeps and tatties are in essence another term for potatoes and turnips. The hearty root veg are mashed together to make a delicious and warming accompanying side dish and can be found featuring across a range of Scottish cuisine.
Scotland is known for providing some of the best seafood in the world, and Scottish salmon is no exception. Thick, flaky fillets of rosy coloured salmon are often served alongside simple pan-fried green vegetables for a homely and filling meal. New Creelers Restaurant in Broadford on the Isle of Skye is known for its homemade fish dishes, including delicious Scottish Salmon.
Another choice for those fond of a more adventurous dish, black pudding, or blood pudding, is a favourite among Scottish locals and tourists alike. Traditionally found nestled amongst the delights of a full Scottish breakfast or paired alongside roast lamb, scallops or uncountable other delicious dishes, black pudding is commonly made with pork or beef blood, mixed with either oatmeal, oat groats or barley groats giving it its hearty, melt-in-the-mouth texture.
Native to Scotland, fresh Grouse is readily available throughout the country during the shooting season between August and December. With a distinctive, gamey flavour, the bird is prepared and served in several ways including stewed, in a casserole, or roasted. Visitors who are feeling particularly adventurous can try their hand at shooting their own grouse at a number of different locations across Scotland, including the Lammermuir Hills and Borders and The Cairngorms.
Creamy, warming and moreish, Cullen Skink combines decadent smoked salmon or haddock, onions and potatoes with a rich, cream sauce. Originating in the northeastern village of Cullen, the warm soup is served with a crusty side of toasted bread and is a popular choice on Scottish menus across the country. Why not visit Rockpool Café in the charming village of Cullen to sample the dish in the very area it was created?
The ultimate traditional comfort food, stovies (to “stove” something means to stew it to the Scots) are an ideal starter or side dish made from a combination of potatoes, different types of sausages, roast or minced meats and spices, cooked together in one pot. The perfect winter warmer on cold Scottish evenings.
Known the world over for its buttery taste and wonderfully crumbly texture, the traditional Scottish shortbread is an ideal accompaniment for a warm cup of tea. Originally saved for special occasions such as Hogmanay (New Year’s Eve), over the years shortbread has transformed into a more common delicacy and can be found across the country in stores and bakeries such as the Shortbread House of Edinburgh.
A seasonal delight, Cranachan is often referred to in Scotland as the king of Scottish desserts. Originally created to celebrate the harvest season, tart raspberries are layered with Scottish oats and cream and often come in a range of flavours including whisky, chocolate and orange.
The ultimate treat for those with a sweet tooth, the Scottish tablet is a simple dish that dates back to the 18th century. Similar to fudge, a tablet is made from a combination of sugar, condensed milk and plenty of butter, resulting in a heavenly piece of confectionary with a chewy exterior giving way to a moreish melt-in-the-mouth centre.
It’s no surprise that Scotland is well known for its delicious cuisine, with world-renown dishes such as haggis and black pudding, as well as more regional delights such as cranachan and grouse.
Buying a restaurant or café in Scotland opens up an exciting world of opportunity to source and provide the best culinary delights that Scotland has to offer. Choosing the perfect location and premises can be a daunting task. Here at CCL Property, our knowledgeable and experienced team are on hand to help you every step of the way.
Discover the range of unique properties we have available to suit every taste and requirement and enjoy a smooth and hassle-free service from beginning to end including valuation surveys, commercial funding and conveyancing.
Get in touch today and discover how we can help you find your perfect restaurant or café in Scotland.
