Scotch Broth(For Soup)

Prep: 30 min Cook: 150 min Serves: 8 Cuisine: Scottish

Hearty Scottish soup featuring tender meat, barley, and fresh vegetables, perfect for warming up on cold days and enjoyed by family and friends alike.

Be the first to rate this recipe

Ingredients

  • 3 lb. shoulder or neck bones
  • 3 qt. water
  • 1 tsp. salt
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 3 whole cloves
  • 6 sprigs parsley
  • 1 onion
  • 2 Tbsp. chopped parsley
  • 1/2 cup barley
  • 1/2 cup diced carrots
  • 1/2 cup diced celery

Instructions

  1. Put bones, water, and salt in a large saucepan. Bring to a boil and skim the water.
  2. Add bay leaf, cloves, sprigs of parsley, and chopped onion. Simmer for 2 to 2 1/2 hours until the meat is done.
  3. Remove the meat and let it cool. Cut the meat into small pieces.
  4. Strain the stock and add the soaked barley.
  5. When the barley is half done or tender, add diced carrots, diced celery, turnip, and diced onions.
  6. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
  7. Add the cooked meat and skim off any fat.
  8. Simmer a few minutes more and add chopped parsley before serving.

Tips & Substitutions

For a deeper flavor, consider browning the bones in a hot oven before boiling. If you don't have barley, quinoa can be a great gluten-free substitute, or you can skip grains for a low-carb option. Always skim the fat from the broth for a cleaner taste. Adjust the seasoning to your preference, and feel free to add other vegetables like potatoes or turnips.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Scotch broth hot, garnished with the additional chopped parsley. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. For an added twist, consider serving it alongside a refreshing glass of Strawberry Iced Tea. This hearty soup is perfect for chilly days or as a nourishing comfort food.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, gently warm the soup on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water if it has thickened. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Scotch Broth(For Soup) contains roughly 1175 calories, with 66g protein, 202g carbohydrates, and 48g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (339% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and calcium (136% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1797mg per serving (78% of the Daily Value).

1175 kcal 59% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 65.7g 100% DV
Total Fat 48.4g 62% DV
Carbs 202.4g 74% DV
Fiber 94.8g 100% DV
Sugar 12.3g 25% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1797.3mg 78% DV
Potassium 3965.6mg 84% DV
Cholesterol 131mg 44% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 538mcg 60% DV
Vitamin C 15.6mg 17% DV
Calcium 1764.1mg 100% DV
Iron 40mg 100% DV
Diet fit High-protein High-fiber
Contains Wheat/Gluten

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 use other types of meat for Scotch broth?

Yes, you can use lamb or beef instead of the traditional shoulder or neck bones. Adjust cooking times based on the type of meat used, ensuring it's tender before adding the vegetables.

What can I substitute for barley if I have dietary restrictions?

If you're looking for gluten-free options, quinoa works well as a substitute for barley. Additionally, you can simply omit the grains or add lentils for a different texture.

How can I enhance the flavor of the broth?

To enhance the broth's flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce during cooking. Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can also elevate the taste. Don't forget to taste and adjust seasonings before serving.

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).

Vegan recipes → Vegetarian recipes → All recipes →