The Best Veggie Haggis in the UK: Our Top Picks

The popularity of vegetarianism and veganism has increased the demand for meat-free alternatives to traditional dishes. One such dish is haggis, a Scottish delicacy traditionally made with sheep’s heart, liver, and lungs. However, many companies have created meat-free versions of haggis with the rise of vegetarianism and veganism. This article will explore the best vegetarian haggis options available in the UK.

The Simon Howie brand is one of the most popular vegetarian haggis options in the UK. Their veggie haggis is the number one selling vegetarian haggis in the country and for good reason. The packaging has a high-quality feel to it and stands out on the shelves. The product is also of a very high standard, with a delicious blend of spices and grains, making it a great alternative to traditional haggis.

For those who prefer to make their own haggis, plenty of recipes are available online. One tasty vegetarian haggis recipe involves making a stock with crumbled stock cubes, boiling water, Marmite, and black treacle. Oats are then added to the frying pan along with the stock. This recipe is a great option for those who want to try making their own vegetarian haggis at home.

Understanding Veggie Haggis

Veggie haggis is a plant-based alternative to traditional haggis, which is a meat pudding made from sheep’s heart, liver, and lungs, mixed with oatmeal, suet, and spices, and cooked in the animal’s stomach. Veggie haggis is a popular choice for vegetarians and vegans who want to enjoy the taste of haggis without the meat.

The main ingredients of veggie haggis are typically a combination of pulses, grains, and vegetables, such as kidney beans, lentils, mushrooms, onions, carrots, and turnips. The mixture is then seasoned with a blend of spices, including black pepper, coriander, cumin, and nutmeg, to give it a distinctive flavour.

One of the benefits of veggie haggis is that it is often lower in fat and calories than traditional haggis, making it a healthier option. It is also a good source of protein, fibre, and essential vitamins and minerals.

When choosing a veggie haggis, it is important to check the ingredients list and nutritional information to ensure that it meets your dietary requirements. Some veggie haggis products may contain dairy or other animal-derived ingredients, so it is worth checking the label carefully.

Veggie haggis is a tasty and nutritious alternative to traditional haggis, and is a great option for vegetarians and vegans looking to enjoy a classic Scottish dish.

Top Veggie Haggis Brands in the UK

When it comes to veggie haggis, a few brands stand out from the rest. Here are some of the top veggie haggis brands in the UK:

1. Simon Howie Vegetarian Haggis

Simon Howie Vegetarian Haggis is the UK’s best-selling vegetarian haggis. It is made with a blend of vegetables, pulses, and oats, and has a slight spice kick thanks to the ground spices in the recipe. This haggis is also vegan-friendly and approved by the Vegetarian Society. It can be found in most major supermarkets in the UK.

2. Macsween Vegetarian Haggis

Macsween Vegetarian Haggis is another popular brand of veggie haggis in the UK. It is made with a blend of grains, vegetables, and spices, and is also vegan-friendly. This haggis has won several awards, including the Great Taste Award, and can be found in most major supermarkets in the UK.

3. The Real Haggis Co. Vegetarian Haggis

The Real Haggis Co. Vegetarian Haggis is a newer brand of veggie haggis in the UK, but it has quickly gained popularity. It is made with a blend of vegetables, pulses, and spices, and is also vegan-friendly. This haggis has a slightly smoky flavour and can be found in some major supermarkets in the UK, as well as online.

These three brands offer some of the best veggie haggis options in the UK. Whether you’re a vegetarian or just looking to try something new, these haggis options are definitely worth a try.

Best Veggie Haggis Recipes

Scotland’s national dish, haggis, is traditionally made with sheep’s heart, liver, and lungs, mixed with suet, onions, oatmeal, and spices. However, there are now many vegetarian and vegan versions of this beloved dish, which are just as delicious and satisfying. Here are two of the best veggie haggis recipes in the UK:

Traditional Veggie Haggis

This recipe is a faithful recreation of the classic haggis, using lentils, mushrooms, oats, and spices to mimic the texture and flavour of the original. It’s perfect for those who want a taste of Scotland without the meat.

Ingredients:

1 onion, finely chopped
1 carrot, finely chopped
1 cup brown lentils, rinsed and drained
1 cup pinhead oats
1 cup mushrooms, finely chopped
1/2 cup vegetable stock
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp ground black pepper
1 tsp ground nutmeg
1 tsp dried thyme
Salt, to taste

Instructions:

In a large frying pan or wok, gently fry the onion, carrot, and mushrooms in olive oil until soft.
Add the lentils and vegetable stock to the pan and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
Stir in the oats, black pepper, nutmeg, thyme, and salt. Cook for a further 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is thick and sticky.
Serve hot with neeps and tatties (mashed turnips and potatoes).

Modern Veggie Haggis

This recipe takes a more contemporary approach to haggis, using a variety of beans, nuts, and vegetables to create a unique and flavourful dish. It’s perfect for those who want to experiment with different flavours and textures.

Ingredients:

1 onion, finely chopped
1 carrot, finely chopped
1 cup cooked borlotti beans
1 cup cooked chickpeas
1 cup cooked brown rice
1/2 cup hazelnuts, roughly chopped
1/2 cup almonds, roughly chopped
1/2 cup sunflower seeds
1/2 cup pumpkin seeds
1/2 cup nutritional yeast
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp soy sauce
2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
1 tbsp smoked paprika
1 tsp ground allspice
Salt, to taste

Instructions:

In a large frying pan or wok, gently fry the onion, carrot, and mushrooms in olive oil until soft.
Add the borlotti beans, chickpeas, brown rice, hazelnuts, almonds, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, nutritional yeast, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, allspice, and salt to the pan. Mix well.
Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and slightly crispy.
Serve hot with your favourite sides, such as roasted vegetables or a green salad.

These veggie haggis recipes will surely delight your taste buds and satisfy your hunger. Try them out for yourself and enjoy a taste of Scotland, without the meat.

How to Choose the Best Veggie Haggis

When it comes to choosing the best veggie haggis, there are a few key factors to consider. Here are some things to keep in mind:

Ingredients

The ingredients used in veggie haggis can vary widely from brand to brand. Some may be made with lentils, while others use beans or even mushrooms. It’s important to read the label carefully to ensure that the haggis is made with ingredients that you enjoy and that meet your dietary needs.

Texture

Texture is an important aspect of haggis, and veggie haggis is no exception. Some veggie haggis may have a softer texture, while others may have a firmer, more crumbly texture. Consider what texture you prefer and look for haggis that meets your preferences.

Flavour

Flavour is another key consideration when choosing veggie haggis. Some haggis may be spicier, while others may have a more subtle flavour. It’s important to choose a haggis that has a flavour profile that you enjoy.

Nutritional Information

If you’re looking for a healthier option, be sure to check the nutritional information on the label. Some veggie haggis may be lower in fat and calories than others, so it’s important to compare the options to find the best one for you.

Considering these factors, you can choose the best veggie haggis for your taste preferences and dietary needs.

Where to Buy Veggie Haggis in the UK

If you want to purchase veggie haggis in the UK, several options are available both online and in-store.

Online Options

One of the most convenient ways to purchase veggie haggis is through online retailers. Here are a few options to consider:

Sainsbury’s: Sainsbury’s offers a variety of vegetarian haggis options, including the UK’s best-selling Simon Howie Vegetarian Haggis. You can purchase it online and have it delivered to your doorstep.
Tesco: Tesco also offers a range of vegetarian haggis options, including the Simon Howie Vegetarian Haggis. You can purchase it online, deliver it to your home, or collect it in-store.
Waitrose: Waitrose offers vegetarian haggis options, including the popular MacSween Vegetarian Haggis. You can purchase it online and deliver it to your home or collect it in-store.

In-Store Options

If you prefer to shop in-store, several supermarkets offer vegetarian haggis options:

Sainsbury’s: Sainsbury’s has a range of vegetarian haggis options available in-store, including the Simon Howie Vegetarian Haggis.
Tesco: Tesco also offers a selection of vegetarian haggis options in-store, including the Simon Howie Vegetarian Haggis.
Waitrose: Waitrose has a variety of vegetarian haggis options available in-store, including the MacSween Vegetarian Haggis.

When purchasing veggie haggis in-store, it is important to check the product label to ensure it is suitable for your dietary needs. Some vegetarian haggis options may contain dairy or other animal products, so be sure to read the ingredients list carefully.

Health Benefits of Veggie Haggis

Veggie haggis is a nutritious and healthy alternative to traditional haggis. It is made from a blend of vegetables, pulses, seeds, oatmeal, and spices, and does not contain any offal or meat. Here are some of the health benefits of veggie haggis:

High in Fibre

Veggie haggis is an excellent source of dietary fibre. Fibre is essential for maintaining a healthy digestive system and can help to lower cholesterol levels. One serving of veggie haggis contains approximately 7 grams of fibre, which is about 25% of the recommended daily intake.

Low in Fat

Compared to traditional haggis, veggie haggis is much lower in fat. This is because it does not contain any offal or meat. Instead, it is made from a variety of vegetables, pulses, and seeds, which are low in fat but high in nutrients.

Rich in Vitamins and Minerals

Veggie haggis is a good source of vitamins and minerals. It contains a variety of vegetables, which are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals such as potassium and magnesium. It also contains oatmeal, which is a good source of B vitamins and iron.

Suitable for Vegetarians and Vegans

Veggie haggis is an excellent option for vegetarians and vegans. It is made entirely from plant-based ingredients and contains no animal products. This makes it a great choice for those who are looking to reduce their meat consumption or follow a plant-based diet.

Veggie haggis is a nutritious and healthy alternative to traditional haggis. It is high in fibre, low in fat, and rich in vitamins and minerals. Additionally, it is suitable for vegetarians and vegans, making it a versatile and inclusive dish.

Conclusion

Several options are available for the best veggie haggis in the UK. Each of the haggis varieties mentioned in this article has its own unique taste and nutritional value.

Based on the research and comparison, V1 veggie haggis is considered the best overall in terms of nutrition. However, it is important to note that taste is subjective, and individuals may prefer different brands or types of veggie haggis based on their personal preferences.

For those who are vegan, the Ultimate Vegan Haggis recipe from The Pesky Vegan is a great option to try at home. It offers a vegan take on the traditional Scottish dish without sacrificing taste or texture.

The availability of veggie haggis in the UK has increased in recent years, providing a great alternative for those who do not consume meat or offal. With the variety of options available, finding a veggie haggis that suits one’s taste and dietary needs is easy.