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September 10, 2026Sources cited
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Haggis

Haggis is a savoury Scottish dish made from sheep’s heart, liver and lungs mixed with oatmeal, suet, onions and spices, traditionally encased in a sheep’s stomach and boiled.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated September 10, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Haggis is a savoury Scottish dish made from sheep’s heart, liver and lungs mixed with oatmeal, suet, onions and spices, traditionally encased in a sheep’s stomach and boiled. It is widely regarded as Scotland’s national dish and is especially associated with Burns Night and other Scottish celebrations.

Description

Haggis is a savoury pudding or sausage made from minced sheep offal combined with oatmeal, suet, onions and seasonings. It is traditionally boiled in a casing, historically a sheep’s stomach.

Cultural significance

Haggis is closely linked to Scottish identity and is widely described as the national dish of Scotland. It is a central feature of Burns Night suppers in honour of poet Robert Burns.

Serving and accompaniments

Haggis is commonly eaten with mashed potatoes and turnips, known in Scotland as tatties and neeps. Scotch whisky is a traditional drink served alongside it.

Variants and modern preparation

While traditional haggis uses an animal casing, modern commercial versions may use synthetic casings. Meat-free vegetarian and vegan haggis are also available.

Key facts

  • Haggis is a traditional Scottish savoury dish made with sheep offal, oatmeal, suet, onions and spices.
  • It is commonly described as Scotland’s national dish.
  • Traditionally, haggis is cooked in a sheep’s stomach, though modern versions may use artificial casings.
  • It is strongly associated with Burns Night, held on or around 25 January.
  • Vegetarian and vegan versions are also produced.
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Canadian context

Haggis is relevant to Canadian readers through Scottish heritage communities and Burns Night events, especially in regions with strong Scottish cultural traditions.

Frequently asked questions

What is haggis?
Haggis is a Scottish savoury dish made from sheep’s heart, liver and lungs mixed with oatmeal, suet, onions and spices, traditionally cooked in a sheep’s stomach.
Why is haggis important in Scotland?
Haggis is widely regarded as Scotland’s national dish and is a major part of Burns Night celebrations.
What does haggis taste like?
Descriptions usually emphasise a savoury, spiced, hearty flavour rather than a sweet one.
How is haggis traditionally served?
It is usually served with neeps and tatties, meaning turnips and mashed potatoes.
Are there vegetarian versions of haggis?
Yes. Vegetarian and vegan haggis versions are widely made using ingredients such as oats, vegetables, pulses and spices.

References

  1. Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/topic/haggis
    Supports: Definition, ingredients, traditional preparation, and status as Scotland’s national dish.
  2. National Geographic — https://www.nationalgeographic.com/travel/article/the-story-behind-haggis-scotland-national-dish
    Supports: Cultural significance and Burns Night association.
  3. VisitScotland — https://www.visitscotland.com/things-to-do/food-drink/haggis
    Supports: National dish framing and cultural presentation.
  4. Food Network — https://www.foodnetwork.com/how-to/packages/food-network-essentials/what-is-haggis
    Supports: Ingredients, traditional cooking method, and serving suggestions.
  5. The Haggis Experience — https://www.thehaggisexperience.com/scotlands-wild-haggis-truth-or-legend/
    Supports: Vegetarian haggis variants.