By Admin | ScotViews.com
When it comes to hearty, warming dishes, few things say "Scotland" like a bowl of Cullen Skink — a creamy, comforting soup made from smoked haddock, potatoes, onions, and milk. Hailing from the northeast fishing town of Cullen in Moray, this beloved dish has been a staple in Scottish kitchens for generations.
Whether you're craving a taste of the Highlands or looking to impress with something authentic, Cullen Skink is a simple yet deeply satisfying dish that brings Scotland to your table.
🐟 Ingredients (Serves 4)
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300g (10 oz) undyed smoked haddock
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500ml (2 cups) whole milk
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1 medium onion, finely chopped
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1 bay leaf
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300g (10 oz) potatoes, peeled and diced
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1 tbsp butter
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
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Optional: chopped chives or parsley for garnish
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Optional: a splash of cream for extra richness
👨🍳 Method
1. Poach the Haddock
Place the smoked haddock in a saucepan with the milk and bay leaf. Gently bring to a simmer over low heat and cook for 5–7 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily. Remove the haddock and set aside. Reserve the milk — this becomes the base of your soup.
2. Cook the Vegetables
In a separate large pot, melt the butter and sauté the chopped onion until soft (about 5 minutes). Add the diced potatoes and stir for another minute.
3. Combine & Simmer
Pour in the reserved milk (remove the bay leaf first) and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook until the potatoes are tender — about 10–15 minutes.
4. Add the Fish
Flake the poached haddock into chunks and stir it gently into the soup. Simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavours to meld. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
5. Optional: Blend Half
For a creamier texture, you can blend half of the soup and then mix it back in — or leave it chunky for a more rustic feel.
6. Serve
Ladle into bowls, garnish with chives or parsley, and serve with thick crusty bread or oatcakes.
A True Taste of the North
Cullen Skink is more than just a soup — it’s a symbol of Scotland’s coastal heritage and a perfect example of how simple ingredients can create something deeply comforting. Try it out on a cold evening, and you’ll quickly understand why it’s stood the test of time.
Have your own family recipe or twist on Cullen Skink? Share it in the comments or submit it to ScotViews.com and help keep Scotland’s culinary traditions alive!
