Looks like a disaster, tastes like one of Scotland’s best dishes.
What the Hell Even Is It?
Right… naw gonna lie, haggis sounds boggin!
It's made from a sheep's heart, liver and lungs, mixed with oats, onions, spices and a bit of stock. The whole lot gets cooked together inside a sheep’s stomach.
It Sounds Horrible, But It's Brilliant
Now I know what you're thinking…
"That sounds fucking horrific."
And aye, when you say it like that it does sound a wee bit rough. But honestly, once it's all cooked and seasoned properly, it actually tastes braw.
The flavour is rich, peppery and savoury, and it goes perfectly with neeps and tatties (that's turnips and potatoes).
So aye… it might not look like the most appetising thing in the world, but don't judge it too quickly.
Half the folk who say they hate haggis have usually never even tried it.
Aye… We Actually Eat It
Whenever someone from outside Scotland hears what's in haggis, the reaction is usually the same. A sort of confused stare, followed by something like:
"You actually eat that?"
And the answer is — aye, we do. Problem?
I personally don't eat it that often. I usually have it on Burns Night, or the odd time throughout the year.
I must admit, I do really like it. It goes perfectly with neeps and tatties… and a wee glass of Irn-Bru!
The Wild Haggis Myth
Now if you've ever visited Scotland, there's a good chance someone has told you about the wild haggis.
Aye… the small fluffy creature that runs around the hills.
According to the story, wild haggis have short legs on one side and longer legs on the other, which helps them run around steep hillsides without falling over.
The problem is, they can only run one direction around the hill.
Which is why, if you're trying to catch one, you have to approach from the correct side… otherwise it'll just run away from you.
Of course, it's complete bullshit, but plenty of tourists have fallen for it over the years.
So, the next time yer in Scotland, give haggis a try. You might be surprised. Don't be put off by the looks of it — it's actually delicious!
