Haggis is the national dish of Scotland and is a bit of a legend. Enjoyed all year round, and an essential part of a traditional Burns Supper, still many ask ‘What is a haggis?’.

Let’s set the record straight:

1. Haggis is Not a Mythical Animal.
Forget the idea of a Highland creature with legs of varying lengths. Haggis is not an animal but a traditional Scottish food.

2. It’s Not Endangered.
You won’t find haggis being hunted or featured in a conservation program. It’s not a wild species but rather a staple dish enjoyed across Scotland.

3. It’s Not Just for Burns Night.
While haggis is a key element of a Burns Supper, it’s delicious and enjoyed year-round. Check out some mouthwatering haggis recipes to try it anytime!

So, what exactly is haggis?

4. Traditional Haggis:
It’s a savoury sausage made from a blend of lamb, beef, oats, onions, and spices. Packed with iron, fiber, and carbohydrates, it contains no artificial colours. Since the 1980s, there’s also been a vegetarian version filled with fresh vegetables, mushrooms, pulses, oats, onions, and seeds. Approved by the Vegetarian Society and suitable for vegans, it’s a hit among meat-eaters too.

5. Packaging Details:
Most haggis comes in a plastic casing, which is removed before baking.

6. Understanding the ‘Chieftain Haggis’:
When addressing the haggis in traditional Scottish ceremonies, remember it’s simply a sausage encased in an animal intestine, similar to salami. Not as intimidating when you consider it that way!

7. The Plural of Haggis:
The term “haggis” serves as both singular and plural. So whether you’re serving one or a bunch, it’s still haggis.

8. For US residents:
If you’re in the USA, you’ll need to visit Scotland to enjoy authentic haggis.

9. Haggis Hurling:
There’s a Scottish sport known as ‘haggis hurling,’ where participants throw a frozen haggis from atop a whisky barrel for extra fun.

10. For UK residents:
If you’re in the UK, you can order haggis online from us, with we’ll deliver it to your door. Order by 1pm between Monday and Thursday, and we’ll get it to you the next day.

So now you know—haggis is a delightful, traditional dish with a rich history, not a mythical beast or endangered species. Enjoy exploring its flavors and traditions!