Try surprising regional flavours

Tantalise your taste buds with some local Scottish delicacies. You might be surprised to learn that haggis is not the only national dish on offer around the country and there are plenty of regional flavours to sample as you explore. Why not take a foodie tour to get a unique insight into local producers, purchase fine ingredients and try out some of the recipes for yourself?

 

The Selkirk bannock is certainly one of the oldest and most famed and it is thought that the first was made by Robbie Douglas who opened his shop in the Scottish Borders in 1859. When Queen Victoria visited Sir Walter Scott's granddaughter at Abbotsford, she is said to have refused all else with her tea, apart from a slice of the cake - ensuring that the bannock's reputation was enshrined forever.

 

Cranachan is another sweet treat, a traditional dessert usually made from a mixture of whipped cream, whisky, honey and fresh raspberries topped with toasted oatmeal. Earlier recipes varied slightly in that they did not include the whisky and the fruit was an optional extra however during the winter months, the dram adds an unmistakably warming quality which is just what you need after a day of exploring.

 

Head to the town of Cullen in Moray to try a thick Scottish soup starter made with smoked Finnan haddock, potatoes and onions. Cullen Skink is a local speciality from the north east coast of Scotland, often served at formal dinners. You can still enjoy this at restaurants today.

 

Take advantage of the wonderful seasonal produce in Scotland this winter. Game meats are a great winter warmer and, accompanied with wonderful seasonal vegetables such as parsnips, red cabbage and swede, they are perfect for delicious stews and for an interesting twist on a traditional roast dinner. There is an abundance of delectable Scottish seafood to enjoy during the winter months too. Savour some mouth-watering seabass, truly at its best at this time of year, and treat yourself with tasty lobster and scallop dishes.

 

There are many fine flavours to try from Forfar bridies to clootie dumpling and whether you prefer sweet or savoury, try some regional delights this winter.