So the Scots have narrowly voted to stay part of the UK, and you want to celebrate by throwing a Scottish themed dinner party. But hang on – isn’t Scottish food all about deep-fried everything, a heart attack waiting to happen?
Certainly, the Scots have a strong national identity. We’re familiar with the kilts, the Highland Games, the bagpipes and so on, but when it comes to food, the stereotype may be unfair on our Gaelic neighbours.
A deep-fried Mars bar is a surprisingly tasty dessert, but certainly not part of a healthy diet, and the greater mystery over the Scottish cheeseburger is not how they get the cheese inside the burger, but why they thought it was wise to batter it as well.
But look a little harder and Scotland has a fine tradition of healthy foods, and a thriving farming and export community.
For many people, every day begins the Scottish way already. Porridge and other oat based cereals are probably one of Scotland’s greatest contributions to the healthy diet. Its complex carbohydrates mean it gets digested slowly, releasing energy throughout the morning, so you’re less likely to snack before lunch. Plus, it’s got iron, phosphorus and calcium, as well as vitamin A which boosts your immune system.
If you’re not a fan of porridge, you may opt for another staple of the Scottish breakfast table – smoked kippers. They have a reputation as an old fashioned Victorian English breakfast, but are enjoying somewhat of a revival lately, possibly in part thanks to the debate over independence. Although the British capital of kipper production is the Isle of Man, they are still farmed in large numbers in several areas of Scotland, and exported internationally. Technically, any fish can be called a kipper that has gone through the kippering process, although of course they are usually smoked herring. They are chock full of health benefits, from Omega-3 fatty acids to protein, only 125 calories per fillet, and quick and easy to prepare.
If you do need that mid-morning snack, you could do a lot worse than nibble on an oatcake or two. They’re free from artificial additives, and great for slow-releasing energy. They’re a good source of vitamins B and E as well as iron and fibre. And they’re totally adaptable – top them with fruit or veg, hummus, sliced meat, pretty much anything you fancy.
When it comes to a more substantial Scottish meal, the one everyone thinks of is haggis. Traditionally served with neeps and tatties, this is a surprisingly healthy meal. Haggis is made up of sheeps liver, heart and lungs, so not one for the vegetarians. But liver is the main component, and that’s high in vitamins A, B12 and copper as well as plenty of other nutrients. Lung also contains vitamin C, iron and protein among other nutrients. However, liver and lung are also relatively high cholesterol foods, so haggis should only be an occasional treat.
For anyone on a Paleo diet, Aberdeen Angus steak is certainly one of the more desired cuts. And Scottish seafood is a huge export industry. From salmon to trout, lobster to langoustine and oysters, many people choose Scottish for quality and taste. Scottish lobsters are used worldwide even in Michelin starred restaurants. And of course, seafood in all its varieties is a very healthy and tasty option.
It’s true that there are few vegetarian options associated with typical Scottish cuisine. But Scottish farming certainly produces and exports include plenty of other foods that aren’t exclusively Scottish. Raspberries, strawberries, milk, eggs and cheese are all competitive on the international market.
So that’s your meal sorted. Now you might want a little tipple before bed. Whisky is fat free and low carb, so if you’re going to have a drink, there’s not many better. Plus, it contains anti-oxidants and has been linked to lower instances of heart disease, strokes, cancer and dementia.
So let’s forget the old stereotypes and embrace the healthy Scottish diet. They’re still part of the Union, and we can celebrate that with some traditional Scottish food and drink without clogging up the arteries.
Whatever you want your diet to be, we can help. Everything is aimed at your weight target and personal tastes, so give us a call to discuss your needs.
Contact us 7 days per week on 020 8626 9360 between 9.00am and 21.00pm or via www.totaldietfood.com
Get our daily menus plus other food and diet based insights on our website here or via Twitter and Facebook
YES to Scottish Foods | Total Diet Food - London's Fresh and Personalised Diet Delivery Service
No comments:
Post a Comment