Frequently Asked Questions About Haggis

We give you the facts about haggis so you can experience the delicious taste of Scotland’s national dish.

FAQS ON HAGGIS

Chieftain haggis next to a plate of haggis, neeps and tatties

WHAT IS HAGGIS MADE FROM?

Haggis comes in two forms – traditional meat haggis and a vegetarian/vegan variety.

Traditional haggis recipes vary hugely. It is generally made from the finest lamb offal, lamb and/or beef suet, oats, onions and spices. It’s a great source of iron, fibre, and carbohydrate with no artificial colours.

Vegetarian haggis is a combination of healthy fresh vegetables, mushrooms, pulses, oats, onions and seeds. It is a delicious for vegetarians and vegans. Meat lovers like it too

Join us for a taster, lunch, or dinner to see a haggis making demonstration. LEARN MORE>>

WHAT DOES HAGGIS TASTE LIKE?

Imagine an oaty, spicy mince and you’ll not be far off the taste of a traditional haggis. Vegetarian haggis is like a bean and lentil stew with a nutty, herby, peppery texture.

Enjoy as a main dish served with neeps (swede) and tatties (mashed potatoes) or as an ingredient in your favourite dishes.

CAN YOU SEE HAGGIS BEING MADE?

While haggis is a popular dish in Scottish restaurants, the Haggis Experience is the only place in Scotland to see haggis being made then turned into a tasty meal. You’ll even pick up recipe tips.

Join us for a taster, lunch, or dinner to see a haggis making demonstration. LEARN MORE>>

The Haggis Experience guide demonstrating how haggis is made

WHY IS HAGGIS SERVED ON BURNS NIGHT?

When Scottish poet, Robert Burn wrote “Address to a Haggis”, he had no idea it would be repeated around the world every January in his honour. But, after his death in 1796, his friends organised a Burns Supper to celebrate his life and works, and the tradition continues to this day. Burns unwittingly elevated haggis from its humble origins.

While the 25th January is an important date, haggis can be enjoyed at any time of year.

Addressing the Haggis, a Burns Supper tradition

IS THERE VEGETARIAN HAGGIS?

Vegetarian haggis was first created in the late 1980s. Handmade, it is bursting out of its skin with good stuff; beans, lentils, nuts, vegetables, and oatmeal. Simply delicious.

IS HAGGIS GOOD FOR YOU?

The Scottish diet is often the butt of jokes, it’s true. So, you might be surprised to learn that haggis can be rather good for you.

Not the deep-fried version. We’re talking traditional and vegetarian haggis which is usually served with a plate full of seasonal vegetables, and in more recent times, as an essential ingredient in inspired dishes like quesadillas.