How to make a traditional Burns Night Supper in 2023

On 25 January 2023, the world will celebrate the life and legacy of one of Scotland’s most famous literary figures, Robert [Rabbie] Burns.

For many the highlight is a warm and merry Burns Supper, filled with fervent speech-giving, poetry recitals and plenty of food and drink – all centred around the arrival of the Haggis.

How to host a Burns Night Supper?

Depending on how formal or casual you want to celebrate Burns Night, there are a few key ingredients:

1. The Burns Supper Menu and drinks
2. The Burns Poems
3. Scottish Music
4. Scottish Dress

You can get all the details in this Visit Scotland Guide.

A traditional Burns Supper Menu

A Burns Supper would not be right without a good helping of some traditional Scottish cuisine, accompanied by a few drams of fine Scotch whisky. It's customary to serve three courses during the meal, and while there are a few tried-and-tested favourites, you can always get creative in the kitchen and add a modern twist or two to your quality Scottish ingredients.

But for those who are sticklers for tradition, here are some time-honoured recipes that your guests are bound to love.

Starter: Cock-a-Leekie Soup

Order your Burns Night Whole Chicken today.

Main: Haggis, Neeps 'n Tatties

Order your Burns Night Haggis today.

Don’t forget to Address the Haggis on the night…

Dessert: Traditional Scottish Cranachan

Burns Night Drinks

Whisky, is an essential part of any good Burns Supper. Some types of whisky work particularly well with certain food; this is something to consider when deciding which whiskies to give your guests.

If Whisky isn’t your thing you might just want to serve it for the toast, and choose wine, or even beer and ale, to accompany the meal. Keep to the Scottish theme and source some Scottish fruit, or 'country' wines.

For a non-alcoholic option buy some IRN-BRU.

With that said, you’re all set with your Burns Night menu.

Don’t forget to check out the full guide to holding your Burns Supper.