Celebrate Burns Night with a Traditional Burns Supper
Celebrate Burns Night with a Traditional Supper
Welcome to Buy-Haggis, your one-stop destination for hosting a memorable and authentic Burns Supper. Burns Night, celebrated on January 25th, honors the life and work of Scotland’s national poet, Robert Burns. Whether you’re an experienced host or planning your first event, this guide will walk you through every detail of the evening.
Burns Supper Menu
Starters
Start your evening with hearty, warming soups that set the tone for a Scottish feast:
Scottish Broth: A comforting soup with lamb or chicken broth, barley, and seasonal vegetables.
Cock-a-Leekie Soup: A traditional chicken soup with leeks and prunes for a hint of sweetness.
Cullen Skink: A creamy, smoky delight made with smoked haddock, potatoes, onions, and milk.
Main Course
The highlight of Burns Night is the main course, showcasing Scotland’s iconic dishes:
Haggis: The hero of the evening, made with seasoned meat, oats, and spices. Served with neeps (mashed turnips) and tatties (mashed potatoes).
Vegetarian Haggis: A delicious alternative made with lentils, beans, oats, and aromatic spices.
Scotch Beef or Lamb: A roast option for those who prefer a more conventional main.
Whisky Sauce: A rich, indulgent accompaniment blending whisky, cream, and mustard.
Desserts
Sweeten the night with Scotland’s most cherished desserts:
Cranachan: A layered dessert of whipped cream, raspberries, toasted oats, honey, and a splash of whisky.
Tipsy Laird: Scotland’s answer to trifle, with sponge cake, custard, fruits, and whisky.
Beverages
Pair your meal with a range of traditional drinks:
Scotch Whisky: Perfect for toasting and sipping throughout the evening.
Scottish Ales and Beers: Offer guests a taste of local brews.
Non-Alcoholic Drinks: Scottish mineral water, soft drinks, or mocktails for non-drinkers.
How to Host a Burns Supper
1. Preparation is Key
Guest List
Invite friends and family in advance, and let them know the dress code—formal attire or traditional Scottish dress like kilts.
Plan Your Menu
Choose dishes that suit your audience, including vegetarian or alternative options.
Decorations
Set the scene with tartan tablecloths, Scottish flags, or centerpieces featuring thistle flowers.
Essentials
Stock up on haggis, whisky, and all the ingredients for your chosen dishes. Don’t forget a copy of Robert Burns’ works for the evening’s readings.
2. Set the Scene
Decorate the dining area with Scottish-themed items like tartan runners, candles, and Burns-themed place cards.
Arrange your table with traditional serving dishes and utensils.
3. Welcome Your Guests
Greet guests with a traditional drink, such as a whisky-based cocktail or hot toddy.
Explain the significance of Burns Night, sharing a brief history of the poet and the event.
4. Piping in the Haggis
This is the most theatrical moment of the evening. Arrange for a bagpiper or play recorded bagpipe music to escort the haggis to the table.
As the haggis is brought in, guests can join in a slow clap or cheer.
5. The Address to the Haggis
The host or a designated speaker recites Robert Burns’ famous poem, “Address to a Haggis”.
During the line, “An’ cut you up wi’ ready slicht,” theatrically slice the haggis to mark the start of the meal.
Raise a toast to the haggis and Robert Burns.
6. Dinner and Toasts
Serve each course with care, starting with the soup and ending with desserts.
Encourage guests to toast using the Selkirk Grace or another traditional blessing.
Offer whisky pairings to complement the haggis and other dishes.
7. Entertainment and Speeches
No Burns Supper is complete without entertainment. Readings of Burns’ poetry, including “A Red, Red Rose” or “Tam o’ Shanter.”
Live music featuring Scottish folk songs or instrumental performances.
Traditional speeches:
“The Immortal Memory”: A tribute to Robert Burns’ legacy.
“Toast to the Lassies”: A lighthearted toast celebrating women.
“Reply from the Lassies”: A humorous rebuttal from the women.
8. Conclude with Dessert and Farewell
Serve desserts with coffee, tea, or an after-dinner whisky.
Thank guests for attending, and consider giving small mementos such as miniature bottles of whisky or Scottish-themed trinkets as a thank-you.
Why Celebrate Burns Night?
Burns Night is more than a dinner; it’s a celebration of Scotland’s rich cultural heritage, poetry, and traditions. Hosting a Burns Supper allows you to honor this legacy while bringing people together for a memorable evening of food, drink, and camaraderie.
For all your Burns Supper essentials, from authentic haggis to whisky and Scottish decor, visit Buy-Haggis. Let’s make your Burns Night truly unforgettable.
Slàinte Mhath!