Black pudding in Scotland.

Black pudding in Scotland, also known as black pudding, is a traditional Scottish dish that has been enjoyed for centuries. Eaten for breakfast, it is a hearty and flavorful sausage dish made from a mixture of oatmeal, tallow, spices and sometimes pig’s blood, which gives it its dark color and unique texture. It is widely available throughout Scotland and is a popular dish among locals and visitors alike. Whether you’re looking for something light to start the day or a hearty meal to end the evening, black pudding is a delicious option that is sure to please. Don’t hesitate to try it: it’s worth it, even in the early morning!

The Black pudding

An institution in Scotland!

Scottish black pudding is a type of sausage made from oatmeal, pig’s blood and sometimes a combination of ground pork and beef, which gives it its darker color.

In Scotland, black pudding is often made with sheep’s blood rather than pig’s blood.

While this may sound strange, blood is a nutritious, protein-rich ingredient that gives this dish its rich, indulgent flavor.

The black pudding is then spread out in a large dish and dried, either in the sun or in an oven.

It is a common misconception that black pudding is black because of the use of charred pig’s blood. In reality, it is the oatmeal that gives the black pudding its dark color.

History of black pudding

A traditional Scottish dish

Did you know that? Black pudding is a Scottish invention! It is estimated that it was born in Scotland in the Middle Ages. Because of the difficult climatic conditions, the Scots had difficulty growing crops. So they started using other ingredients and spices to make their meals more nutritious.

Meat and fish were expensive, so the Scots turned to blood as an alternative to add protein to their meals. To give it more consistency, they had the idea of mixing it with oatmeal, and adding some spices for more character.

In medieval Scotland, black pudding was called blodcaill and was a daily meal for many Scots, especially the very poor, as it was an extremely affordable dish that was both filling and nutritious.

Where to eat black pudding in Scotland

Over the centuries, black pudding remains a key dish in Scottish cuisine. It is sliced and pan-fried, giving it a crispy exterior and a melting interior.

Something to enjoy!

You can find them in pubs, hotels, B&Bs and other hotels offering breakfast in the morning. Don’t hesitate to try it: it’s a real surprise, even for those who prefer sweet breakfast in general!