Haggis is a classic Scottish dish that encapsulates the essence of traditional cooking. It is both a symbol of Scottish cuisine and an integral part of the country’s cultural identity, particularly celebrated on Burns Night. This savory pudding combines meat with oatmeal, onions, salt, and spices. It is traditionally encased in the animal’s stomach and simmered for several hours. The resulting dish is rich, hearty, and deeply flavorful, often served with “neeps and tatties” (turnips and potatoes).
The origins of haggis are somewhat murky, but it is a dish that has undoubtedly been associated with Scotland for centuries. It is often thought to have been conceived as a means of utilizing lesser cuts of meat and offal, which were affordable and readily available to the common people. The first known written recipe for haggis appears in the early 15th century. Today, it stands as a national dish of Scotland and is enjoyed by people all over the world who appreciate its unique taste and cultural significance.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground lamb
- 1/2 lb chicken livers
- 1 onion
- 1/2 tablespoon butter
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon allspice
- 1/2 teaspoon thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 cup beef stock
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350F/175C.
- Finely dice the onion and cook in butter over a medium heat until softened.
- Chop the chicken livers.
- Add the various spices and thyme to the onions.
- Add the lamb and chicken livers. Brown the meat then add the stock and cover.
- Allow to simmer for 20mins.
- Add the oatmeal, mix well and transfer to an oven safe dish
- Cover the dish and put in the oven for 30mins.
- Remove the lid and cook another 10 mins.
- Serve with mashed potatoes and mashed rutabagas