How to host a Burns Night supper
Right now, Scots across the land are busy prepping for January’s most anticipated Hootenanny – Burns Night. The festivities celebrate the nation's most famous poet, Robert Burns, as well as our country's unique culture and traditions.
If you’re new to this annual shindig, it may seem a wee bit complicated. But never fear - this step-by-step guide will help you tell your neeps from your tatties. So pour yourself a dram, don your finest tartan and prepare to get merry...
Prepare your Burns supper menu
A feast of haggis, neaps, and tatties lies at the heart of all Burns Night celebrations. If cooking a haggis leaves you feeling slightly ‘feart’, then Scotland’s own chef Nick Nairn is on hand to assist with his book New Scottish Cookery. Championing Scottish ingredients, this collection of over 80 recipes will ease you into cooking classics with a contemporary twist. There’s even a handy guide detailing where to source the best Scottish ingredients. Haggis may be the tradition, but it doesn’t have to be traditional.
Piping in the guests (and the Haggis)
Once your food is prepped and served, it’s time to welcome your guests. Sourcing a piper might be a logistical nightmare - not to mention ever so slightly irritating to your neighbours - so substitute those pipes for some traditional Scottish music instead. Select some choice numbers from Scotland’s Music by John Purser, packed with over 200 examples of Scottish music. It gives detailed insight into traditional music through the centuries, and explores how it illuminates Scottish history and culture.