Scotch Broth

Scotch Broth

Scotch Broth (SKOTCH BROTH)

Scottish Barley & Lamb Soup

Prep Time 20 min
📈 Difficulty Easy
👥 Servings
6
🔥 Calories 316 kcal

A hearty, nourishing soup of pearl barley, lamb, and root vegetables simmered slowly into a thick, warming broth that defines Scottish comfort.

Nutrition & Info

320 kcal per serving
Protein 22.0g
Carbs 30.0g
Fat 12.0g
Protein Carbs Fat

Dietary

dairy-free nut-free

Equipment Needed

large stockpot ladle sharp knife

Presentation Guide

Vessel: deep ceramic bowl

Garnishes: chopped parsley, crusty bread

Accompaniments: oatcakes, butter

Instructions

  1. 1

    Place lamb in a large pot with water. Bring to a boil, skim off any scum.

  2. 2

    Add barley and split peas. Simmer gently for 1 hour.

  3. 3

    Add carrots, turnips, onion, and leeks. Simmer 40 min more until vegetables are tender.

  4. 4

    Remove lamb, shred meat from bones, return meat to pot. Discard bones.

  5. 5

    Season generously with salt and pepper. Serve in deep bowls with parsley.

💡

Did You Know?

Scotch broth was so essential to the Scottish diet that Samuel Johnson defined "oats" in his dictionary as "a grain which in England is given to horses, but in Scotland supports the people."

Chef's Notes

Equipment Tips

  • large stockpot
  • ladle
  • sharp knife

Garnishing

chopped parsley, crusty bread

Accompaniments

oatcakes, butter

The Story Behind Scotch Broth

Scotch broth has sustained Scottish families since the medieval period, when barley and root vegetables were the staples of Highland agriculture. The soup made the most of tough cuts of mutton or lamb, slow-simmering them into tenderness while barley thickened the broth into a meal in itself. It remains Scotland's quintessential comfort soup, served from crofting cottages to Edinburgh restaurants.

🕐 Traditionally enjoyed lunch or dinner, especially winter 📜 Origins: Medieval Scotland

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