Where ever I travel, I like to adopt things and weave them into my life. Traditions, locally produced goods, beauty brands I fond along the way, food and drink. Especially the last two.
Those who know me will know that I like a little bit of something sweet now and again most days. Just a fair warning, if you are a clean eater or one who extols the evils of sugar, this might not be the post for you. I salute you and you are very welcome here, but this post is gleefully and unapologetically a tribute to a trio of sweet, sugar laden delights. Plus a fizzy drink and a caffeine hit.
The Empire Biscuit
A rediscovery, I’ve been an enthusiastic consumer of these long before I settled on Scottish shores. What I didn’t know though, was that the tea-party perfect Empire Biscuit has its roots in Scotland. The Empire Biscuit of today is a variation on the earlier German or Linzer biscuit, which remains popular with our European neighbours. At the outbreak of WW1 ,so the story goes, such a Germanic sounding treat was deemed unpatriotic and the two layered biscuit was renamed.
It’s a fitting name, I think. Having spent some time exploring the cemeteries and churches of Scotland, its clear that Scotland answered when the British Empire called, sending many of its sons and daughters to serve it. The Empire may be a thing of the past but the humble biscuit means the contribution of the everyday people who helped to build it needn’t be forgotten.
Scottish Tablet
When we first arrived in Scotland, I made the mistake of thinking Tablet was just what the Scots called fudge. Different name, same difference. I was wrong and to Scotland, I apologise. Tablet is definitely a sweet in its own right and, when made properly, in a league of it’s own.
Tablet has a more crumbly texture that fudge, and more depth of flavour. It melts in the mouth and is very, very moreish. Taste it as it comes, or flavoured with vanilla, nuts or whiskey. I defy anyone to have just one piece. Tablet even gets a mention in the 18th century household books of Lady Grizel Baillie. If its good enough for an 18th century lady, its good enough for me.
The Scottish Tart
This one has me a bit puzzled. I’d not encountered the Scottish Tarts I’ve been eating, before I moved here. But, when trying to find out about the origins of the recipe, I can only find information for a confection involving whiskey and dried fruit known as the Ecclefechan tart.
Perhaps these individual Scottish tarts are a more modern addition to Scottish cuisine, like the fabled Deep Fried Mars Bar. I’m not sure on the origins but I do know that these cream and jam filled pastry cases topped with a coating of fondant go down a treat. They are quite small so feel free to have two. A little of what you fancy and all that.
Of course when you have a little something, you might want something to wash it down with. And I really couldn’t talk about food and drink in Scotland without a mention for…
Irn Bru
If you haven’t had the pleasure, Irn Bru is a carbonated soft drink affectionately known as ‘Scotland’s other National Drink’. I believe the first one is whiskey, although the Gin scene is grand here too, so take your pick. With its distinctive orange colour and sometimes controversial ad campaigns, Irn Bru is the maverick of the soft drinks market and a bit of an acquired taste. If you’re visiting Scottish shores, give it a go. If you don’t, it would be like visiting Italy and not eating pasta. Unthinkable.
Scotland Street Coffee
If getting through the day without a caffeine hit or three is unthinkable, opt for a brew that keeps on giving even after your cup is empty. Profits from Scotland Street Coffee are donated to The Mamie Martin Fund, a Scottish charity that concentrates on funding girls through secondary education in Malawi. It’s a lovely coffee that will perk up your day, just as much as knowing that your supporting a young woman in education will.
I picked up a packet in the gift shop at the Royal Botanic Gardens in Edinburgh, but you can buy online here. Details of the Mamie Martin Fund can be found here.
That’s my party of Scottish goodies. I hope you’ve enjoyed reading this post as much as I’ve enjoyed creating it. It was delicious. Please remember to treat yourself sensibly. That means brushing your teeth thoroughly and no peeking at the nutritional information until after you’ve indulged. Enjoy!
Helen x
i’d like a Scottish tablet right now:)