Must-Try Scottish Foods on the NC500
A journey along Scotland's iconic North Coast 500 is a feast for the eyes, but did you know it can also be a feast for your taste buds too! The North Coast 500 is a popular route for many reasons such as the views, experiences and culture but it is also the perfect place for you to try some traditional Scottish cuisine. As you plan your trip with Coocoo Campers, make sure to indulge in these must-try Scottish foods that capture the essence of the Highlands.
1. Haggis
No Scottish adventure is complete without trying haggis. Haggis is traditionally served with "neeps and tatties" (turnips and potatoes) and is a popular meal at this time of year as Burns Night is fast approaching on the 25th January. Whether you sample it at a cozy pub in Inverness or a seaside restaurant in Wick, haggis is a true taste of Scotland. Cockburns butchers in Dingwall has a national reputation for being the best place in the highlands to get yourself some good quality haggis.
2. Cullen Skink
Named after the fishing village of Cullen, this hearty soup is a warm hug in a bowl. Made with smoked haddock, potatoes, onions, and cream. Served with crusty bread, cullen skink is perfect for warming up after a day of exploring the coastline. Look for it on menus in quaint eateries along the NC500. The seafood shack in Ullapool serves the best Cullen skink around, they base their menu on the fish that is delivered from the fishermen in the morning. They have also published a recipe book for you to make your own Cullen skink when your home from your adventures!
3. Scottish Salmon
Scotland is famous for its world-class salmon. Fresh from the cold, clear waters of the Highlands, Scottish salmon is a delicacy that can be enjoyed smoked, grilled, or poached. Many local restaurants and seafood shacks along the NC500 offer this delicacy, ensuring a taste that's as fresh as the sea breeze. Ullapool smokehouse have the very best quality, traditionally smoked, salmon. It is smoked for 12 hours and has all been caught locally in the wester ross area.
4. Black Pudding
A staple in the traditional Scottish breakfast, black pudding has a rich, earthy flavour and is often served with eggs and toast. Try it at a local B&B or café for an authentic morning meal. Stornoway black pudding from Charles Macleod is made in the western isles and has been called ‘the best black pudding to exist’ by many.
5. Scottish Cheese
Scotland boasts a variety of artisan cheeses, from creamy crowdie to tangy blue cheese. As you travel the NC500, stop by local cheese shops or farmers' markets to sample and purchase some of these delicious offerings. Pair them with oatcakes for a true Scottish snack. Connage Highland Dairy and Tain Highland Fine Cheese are the best places along the NC500 to get some fine Scottish cheese.
6. Shortbread
A trip to Scotland wouldn’t be complete without indulging in some buttery shortbread. This simple yet delicious treat is made from flour, butter, and sugar. Enjoy it with a cup of tea or coffee at one of the charming cafés you'll encounter on your journey or stop off in a shop and have it as a snack on your trip. The best shortbread in Scotland has to be Walkers, not on the NC500 but very easy to find along the route.
7. Whisky
Though not a food, no Scottish culinary journey would be complete without a wee dram of whisky. The NC500 is dotted with distilleries that offers tours where you can learn about the whisky-making process and sample some of Scotland's finest single malts. Don't miss the chance to visit a distillery or two and bring home a bottle as a souvenir. The whisky to try on your trip would be Dalmore, Glenmorangie, Balblair and Clynelish.
8. Cranachan
Finish your meal with a traditional Scottish dessert like Cranachan. Made with whipped cream, honey, fresh raspberries, toasted oats, and a splash of whisky, this dessert is a delightful way to end your exploration of Scotland. The Downright Gabbler in Beauly is the place to try Cranachan, made in house it makes the perfect sweet treat to try on your trip.
The North Coast 500 offers more than just stunning views and adventurous roads; it’s also a gateway to Scotland's rich culinary delights. As you explore this iconic route in your Coocoo Camper, make sure to savour these traditional Scottish foods. Each bite tells a story of the land, the sea, and the proud culture of the Highlands. Happy travels and happy tasting!
