Haggis Ended Our Trip To Edinburgh
And why to upgrade your next travel adventure with a unique culinary experience
Scottish haggis has an intriguing, lesser-known connection to the poet Robert Burns. Burns famously penned "Address to a Haggis," an ode celebrating the dish's cultural significance. His verses have immortalized haggis as a symbol of Scottish identity and culinary pride, making him an enduring figure linked intimately to this traditional fare.
Our last trip ended with a very unique and often overlooked option for travel experiences. We signed up for an EatWith cooking class*, led by the vibrant local chef Nell, where together, we sipped on local cocktails, crafted authentic Scottish delights like shortbread cookies, Cullen Skink, and also got to sample the local favorite, haggis.
Ok, I know the look on most of your faces right now. I think I’m pretty adventurous with food. But just hearing the word haggis tends to garner the same reaction from me as lutefisk. Nasty.
We actually chickened out and opted to try the vegetarian version of haggis that you see in the above photo. We have been trying to better our health by laying low on animal products and opting for more whole food options, so this was our excuse reasoning. But Mark was so inspired by all the incredible food we made with Nell that later that night, at our last meal in Edinburgh before flying home, he ordered the haggis spring rolls.
Did I eat one? Yes.
Did I like it? Meh.
Was it as horrendous as I thought it would be? Not at all.
Traveling is an enriching experience that broadens our horizons, exposes us to new cultures, and allows us to connect with people from all sorts of different backgrounds. Traditional sightseeing can give you a glimpse into the history and beauty of a destination but immersing yourself in the local cuisine offers a deeper, more personal connection to the places you visit.
We’ve done cooking classes in Rome, Italy, Hoi An, Vietnam, and now Edinburgh, Scotland—all of which I would highly recommend.
When you participate in a cooking class, you do more than just prepare a meal; you dive into the heart of the culture. Food is an integral part of any community, reflecting its history, traditions, and values. By learning to cook local dishes, you gain insight into the cultural significance of ingredients and cooking methods that have been passed down through generations. This hands-on experience allows you to appreciate the cultural context of the cuisine and better understand the people who create it.
Tourist attractions and popular restaurants often provide a polished version of a destination's culinary scene. However, cooking classes led by locals offer an authentic glimpse into everyday life. You'll have the opportunity to visit local markets, learn about regional ingredients, and understand the nuances of traditional recipes. These experiences provide a genuine taste of the local way of life, far removed from the typical tourist trail.
Taking a cooking class allows you to build connections with local people in a meaningful way. Your instructors, who are often home cooks or professional chefs, will share their personal stories and family recipes with you, fostering a sense of camaraderie and mutual respect. These interactions can lead to memorable conversations, new friendships, and a deeper appreciation for the community you’re visiting.
Whether you’re a novice in the kitchen or a seasoned cook, there’s always something new to learn. Cooking classes abroad offer a unique opportunity to expand your culinary repertoire with techniques and recipes you might not encounter at home. You'll learn how to handle unfamiliar ingredients, master traditional cooking methods, and create dishes you can recreate for friends and family long after your trip has ended. These new skills will not only impress your loved ones but also serve as lasting souvenirs from your travels.
The hands-on nature of cooking classes makes them a fun and engaging activity that stands out in your travel memories. From the vibrant colors and aromas of local markets to the satisfaction of creating and tasting your own culinary creations, these experiences engage all your senses and leave a lasting impression. Every time you prepare a dish you learned during your travels, you’ll be reminded of the people you met and the places you visited, keeping the spirit of your adventure alive.
By participating in cooking classes, you’re contributing directly to the local economy. These classes are often run by small businesses or independent chefs who rely on tourism to support their livelihoods. Your participation helps sustain these enterprises and promotes the preservation of culinary traditions. It's a rewarding way to travel responsibly and give back to the communities that welcome you.
Instead of bringing home generic souvenirs, a cooking class equips you with the knowledge to recreate authentic dishes from your travels. These recipes become unique, personal souvenirs that you can share with others. Cooking for friends and family and telling them the stories behind each dish adds a personal touch that store-bought items can't match.
Happy cooking and haste ye back!
Check out Nell’s EatWith Class: Traditional Scottish Cooking Class & Dinner with Edinburgh Local
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Yes! We took a cooking class when we stayed in a homestay in Agra, and it was such a brilliant experience not just in terms of the amazing food but the connections we made with the family who taught us. Would highly recommend!