Burns Night doesn’t need to be a big fancy affair. At its best, it’s a well-set table, a big platter overflowing with haggis, neeps and tatties, and really it isn't a Burns Supper if there isn't a recitation of Burns poetry. Here's what you need:
1. A Burns book at the table
You don’t need to be a seasoned performer, but you do need the words. A well-thumbed book of poems by Robert Burns is ideal or failing that open up 'Address to a Haggis' on your phone and read it from there.
2. Haggis (and yes, it matters which one)
Haggis is technically optional, but emotionally important. If you’re having it, make it a good one. McSween’s is, in my view, is the best. Anyone disagree? Serve it proudly on a big platter if you can, for maximum effect.
3. Candles tied with ribbon
No need for tartan overload but you do want a bit - plain candles dressed with a tartan ribbon is a good touch - gives a sense of occasion without being too themey. And if you've a tartan blanket or two, drape them over the back of chairs - we have a great selection here.
4. Tablet, dotted about
Tablet belongs on Burns Night. You can make your own (I’ve linked to my tried-and-tested recipe here), or buy it from a good Scottish maker and break it into rough pieces to set out on small plates. It’s sweet, yes - but a little goes a long way.
5. Smoked salmon to start
A few simple smoked salmon canapés are ideal before the haggis: oatcakes, a dab of crème fraîche, maybe a squeeze of lemon. Keep it restrained. I’ve linked to a Scottish smoked salmon I trust here - quietly excellent, and perfect for occasions like this.
6. A dash of tartan (on people, not plates)
This is not fancy dress. A scarf, a tie, a ribbon in the hair - that’s enough. Burns Night looks best when it feels lived-in rather than costume-led.
7. A lighter pudding
After haggis, neeps, tatties and a dram or two, pudding should be gentle. Think something light rather than heroic. The puddings in The Hebridean Baker cookbook are ideal here - unfussy, traditional, and quietly celebratory. I’ve linked to the book here, which I always come back to at this time of year.
Shortbread with good coffee also works beautifully - especially if you want something sweet without another full course. (My shortbread recipe is linked here.)
8. A floating whisky (properly done)
This is the dram I always come back to on Burns Night - warming, elegant, and not too strong.
How to make a floating whisky (in five easy steps):
1 small glass tumbler
1 muslin cloth (or napkin, clean tea towel etc)
60ml of whisky (or however much you fancy)
- Fill the glass three quarters full of cold water
- Double up the cloth and put it across the top of the glass then make an indent with your finger until the point of your finger touches the water. Take your finger away, leaving a finger of cloth pointing down just touching the water.
- Slowly trickle the measured-out whisky into the indentation you’ve made.
- Take off the cloth and the whisky will be sitting like a film on the top of the water.
- Swig it back
And if you're looking for a good Scottish whisky? Try this.
9. Something to do between courses
A quick-fire Burns quiz is a great idea - especially once the first dram has gone round. Keep it light, keep it friendly. I've got one for you here. I’ve linked to I Never Knew That About Scotland, which is perfect for dipping into without turning the evening into a pub quiz.
10. Something to take home
Burns Night doesn’t need party bags, but a small parting gesture is lovely. A wrapped piece of tablet, a couple of shortbreads, or a favourite handwritten Burns quote slipped into a coat pocket - simple, thoughtful, and very Scottish.
Burns Night doesn’t need much. A few good ingredients, a sense of ease, and room for conversation will do nicely.
