A Robert Burns dinner is a traditional Scottish meal held in honor of the poet Robert Burns, who is celebrated for his contributions to Scottish literature and culture. The meal typically includes traditional Scottish dishes and is often accompanied by whisky, haggis, and poetry recitations. Here is an example of a menu for a Robert Burns dinner:
Cock-a-leekie soup is a traditional Scottish soup made with leeks and chicken. It is a hearty and comforting soup that is often served as a starter or main course.
Haggis is a traditional Scottish dish made from sheep sweet meats mixed with oats, onions, and spices, and then cooked inside the animal’s stomach lining. Haggis is considered a delicacy in Scotland and is traditionally served on Burns Night, a celebration of the poet Robert Burns.
Beef Wellington originated in England, but can be on the menu for a Burn’s dinner. It is a dish consisting of a cut of beef tenderloin, wrapped in a pastry crust and served with a sauce. We will be using either a truffle sauce (if we can get NC truffles) or a whisky sauce. The dish is named after the Duke of Wellington, who was known to enjoy it.
Neeps and Tatties is a traditional Scottish dish served with a Burn’s night meal. Neeps are turnips and Tatties are potatoes. Essentially it is mashed root vegetables with butter, salt, pepper, cream, and various herbs like thyme and rosemary.
A salad is often a part of the Burn’s Dinner. HomeCraft’s very own Mountain Goat Salad will be served. This rich salad is made with local goat cheese, pickled baby beets, tiny heirloom tomatoes, cucumber, radish, black walnuts, rainbow carrots, and shallots over arugula, Swiss chard and a spring mix with a creamy herb dressing.
Cranachan is a very traditional Scottish dessert. It’s made with oatmeal, raspberries, whisky, honey and cream, all products that are readily available and high quality in Scotland.
Drinks will include Whisky (Scotch whisky is traditional), Scottish Ale or Beer, and Wine.
Throughout the evening, poetry recitations of Robert Burns will be read and traditional Scottish music will be played. Some people also dress in traditional Scottish attire like kilts and tartans to add to the festive atmosphere. See you there!