Robert Burns Shortbread

Burns Night In

January 25, 2021

Held each year, Burns Night marks the anniversary of Robert Burns’ birth on the 25^th of January and the occasion is usually observed in the form of a traditional supper held to celebrate his life and work.

This year we will all be celebrating the bard on a smaller scale in our own homes instead of the usual family and group gatherings. Burns Suppers typically have a bagpiper playing traditional Scottish tunes, but for most celebrations at home this may prove a tad over the top! Put on a playlist of traditional Scottish music for the same effect and add a little tartan to your outfit to get in the mood.

Normally before any food or drink is served at a Burns Supper, a toast is made by the host:

‘Some have meat and cannot eat,

Some cannot eat that want it;

But we have meat, and we can eat,

Sae let the Lord be thankit’

Afterwards, the starter is brought to the table, and then the plates are cleared in anticipation of the main event. The haggis is traditionally brought to the table on a platter by the chef who is the lead bagpiper. With large drams of whisky to hand, this is when the evening’s festivities truly begin.

After everyone is full of dinner, dessert is taken out with the choice of tea, coffee, or more whisky! Dessert consists of Scottish Cranachan, a layered pudding made with cream, raspberries, oats, honey, whisky and topped with delicious shortbread. Our Traditional Shortbread is ideal for the occasion, we would highly recommend giving it a try!