top of page
Search

BOB's BLOG - Friday 24 January 2025

Rob Kelly

Seriously interesting musings on all things brunch.
Seriously interesting musings on all things brunch.

In celebration of Burns Night tomorrow, our very own Chef Felipe has designed a delicous Scottish themed Specials menu perfect for when the weather is wintery. This got me thinking about the origins of Cullen Skink which I've very much enjoyed on my visits to our northern neighbour. Having attended a Scottish secondary school back in NZ and led the Pipes and Drums of St Kentigern I regret I was not better informed. Time to share the results of my research!


Why is Cullen Skink So Called? Unraveling the Delicious Mystery of Scotland's Iconic Soup

Picture a steaming bowl of creamy, rich soup that captures the essence of Scotland's coastal cuisine - welcome to the world of Cullen Skink. But why such an unusual name? Let's dive into the delectable story behind this warming Scottish delicacy that has been warming hearts and stomachs for generations.


The Origins: A Name with Geographical Roots

The soup takes its name from two distinct sources:

  • Cullen: A small town in Moray, located in the northeast of Scotland, known for its picturesque fishing heritage

  • Skink: An old Scottish word meaning "essence" or "slice," traditionally referring to a knuckle of beef or a soup made from such meat

Originally a humble fisherman's dish, Cullen Skink emerged from the coastal communities of Moray, where smoked haddock was a staple preserving method for local catch. What began as a simple fisherman's soup has now become a celebrated national dish, beloved across Scotland and beyond.


The Perfect Recipe: Traditional Cullen Skink Technique

Ingredients:

  • Smoked haddock (undyed for authentic flavor)

  • Potatoes

  • Onions

  • Whole milk or double cream

  • Butter

  • Fresh chives

  • Salt and pepper


Classic Preparation Method:

  1. Poach the smoked haddock in milk

  2. Create a smooth potato-based soup base

  3. Flake the fish and incorporate into the creamy mixture

  4. Garnish with fresh chives and a twist of black pepper


Burns Night and Scottish Culinary Traditions

A Perfect Burns Night Centerpiece


Cullen Skink is an ideal starter for a traditional Burns Night menu, sitting beautifully alongside other Scottish classics:

  • Starter: Cullen Skink

  • Main Course: Haggis, Neeps, and Tatties

  • Dessert: Cranachan or Shortbread

  • Accompaniment: Liberal amounts of Scotch whisky!


Modern Variations and Gourmet Twists

Contemporary chefs have reimagined Cullen Skink with innovative touches:

  • Truffle oil drizzle

  • Crispy leek garnish

  • Smoked haddock from artisan smokehouses

  • Vegan versions using plant-based alternatives


Warming Up a Winter's Day: Comfort in a Bowl

Beyond its cultural significance, Cullen Skink represents ultimate comfort food. Its rich, creamy texture and smoky depth make it perfect for:

  • Chilly Scottish evenings

  • Post-hiking recovery meals

  • Cozy lunch accompaniments

  • Hearty winter gatherings


Amusing Scottish Food Facts

  • Haggis was originally created as a portable, non-perishable food for Highland travelers

  • Scotland consumes more tea per capita than anywhere else in the UK

  • The deep-fried Mars bar, while notorious, was actually invented in a chip shop in Stonehaven, Scotland


A Burns-Worthy Celebration of Food

In true Scottish spirit, here's a snippet from Robert Burns that captures the joy of good food and companionship:

"Some hae meat and canna eat, And some wad eat that want it; But we hae meat, and we can eat, Sae let the Lord be thankit."

From the lines of "The Selkirk Grace," Burns reminds us that food is more than sustenance—it's a celebration of life and community.


Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Perfect accompaniments for Cullen Skink:

  • Crusty sourdough bread

  • Oatcakes

  • A crisp white wine

  • A dram of Speyside whisky


Thanks for reading. Our Scottish specials will be running through to the end of February. We hope to see you soon!


BOB 24 January 2025



Keywords: Cullen Skink, Scottish soup, smoked haddock, Burns Night, Scottish cuisine, traditional Scottish recipes, coastal cooking, winter comfort food, Scottish seafood soup




12 views0 comments

Recent Posts

See All

Commentaires


Tried & True Coffee Limited 2014

bottom of page