Scotch Broth
Scotch Broth is a hearty, traditional Scottish soup brimming with rich flavors from meaty soup bones, fresh vegetables, and nutty pearl barley. Perfect for warming up on a chilly day, this dish offers a comforting blend of nutrients and taste that suits families and gatherings alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large kettle combine soup bones, water, peppercorns, and salt.
- Cover and simmer for 2 1/2 hours or until the meat comes easily off the bones.
- Remove bones and strain the broth.
- Cool and chill the broth, then skim off the fat.
- Remove meat from the bones.
- Dice the meat and return it to the broth, along with the remaining ingredients.
- Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat, cover, and simmer about 1 hour or until vegetables are barely tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine to the broth while simmering. If pearl barley is unavailable, you can substitute with rice or quinoa. For a heartier soup, add diced potatoes or leeks. Make sure to taste and adjust seasonings as needed, especially if using store-bought broth, which can be saltier.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the scotch broth hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or biscuits for a comforting meal. For a lighter side, consider a fresh salad, such as a simple green salad or the refreshing Spiced Fruit Salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, place the cooled broth in freezer-safe containers, leaving space for expansion. When reheating, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water if the broth has thickened.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Scotch Broth contains roughly 188 calories, with 5g protein, 34g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (27% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1846mg per serving (80% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Combine all the ingredients and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the meat is tender and the flavors meld beautifully.
What type of soup bones work best?
Meaty soup bones such as beef shank or marrow bones are ideal for this recipe. They provide a rich flavor and a good amount of meat. Look for bones with some connective tissue as they will add depth to the broth.
Can I add other vegetables to the broth?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize the broth with seasonal vegetables such as parsnips, green beans, or kale. Just be mindful of the cooking times; add more delicate veggies later in the simmering process.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).