Best Vegetarian Haggis Recipes for Flavorful Scottish Meals

Haggis is a traditional Scottish dish renowned for its rich, hearty flavors, typically made with sheep’s offal and spices. However, for vegetarians and those looking to enjoy a meat-free alternative, there are some incredible vegetarian haggis recipes that capture the essence of this classic without compromising on taste or texture.

These recipes use wholesome ingredients like lentils, mushrooms, oats, and a variety of herbs and spices to create a savory, satisfying dish that honors the spirit of haggis while being completely plant-based.

Whether you’re celebrating Burns Night or simply craving something comforting and unique, vegetarian haggis offers a delicious option that everyone can enjoy. In this post, you’ll find three of the best vegetarian haggis recipes that are easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and perfect for any occasion.

Plus, we’ll share tips, serving suggestions, and nutritional information to help you get the most out of your meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Vegetarian haggis is a wonderful way to enjoy traditional Scottish flavors without the use of meat. These recipes combine hearty lentils, earthy mushrooms, and steel-cut oats to mimic the texture and richness of classic haggis.

The warming spices like nutmeg, coriander, and black pepper add depth, while onions and garlic provide a savory backbone.

Not only are these recipes packed with nutrients and fiber, but they’re also incredibly versatile. Whether baked, steamed, or pan-fried, vegetarian haggis can be served as a main course or as a flavorful stuffing.

It’s perfect for vegetarians, vegans (with a few easy swaps), or anyone interested in trying a creative twist on a traditional dish.

Plus, these recipes are budget-friendly and use pantry staples, making them accessible for cooks of all skill levels. You’ll find them hearty, comforting, and surprisingly easy to make!

Ingredients

Classic Vegetarian Haggis

• 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
• 1 cup steel-cut oats
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 oz mushrooms, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt to taste
• Vegetable broth or water, as needed for cooking lentils

Additional Ingredients for Variations

• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts for extra crunch
• 1/2 cup grated carrot for sweetness
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley for freshness
• 1 tablespoon marmite or yeast extract for umami depth

Equipment

• Medium saucepan for cooking lentils
• Large skillet or frying pan
• Mixing bowls
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Baking dish or loaf tin (optional, for baking)
• Food processor or sharp knife for chopping mushrooms and vegetables
• Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions

1. Cook the lentils: Place the rinsed lentils in a medium saucepan and cover with water or vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes until tender but not mushy. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the oats: In a dry pan, toast the steel-cut oats over medium heat for 3-5 minutes until lightly golden and fragrant. This step enhances their nutty flavor.
3. Sauté the vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and garlic, cooking until translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
4. Add mushrooms: Stir in the finely chopped mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and begin to brown, about 8-10 minutes.
5. Combine spices and seasoning: Add ground coriander, black pepper, nutmeg, thyme, and salt to the pan. Stir well to coat the vegetables and develop the flavors.
6. Mix main ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked lentils, toasted oats, sautéed vegetables, and soy sauce. If you’re adding walnuts, carrot, parsley, or marmite, mix them in now.
7. Bind the mixture: If the mixture feels too dry, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to help it hold together. The texture should be firm but moist enough to shape.
8. Shape or bake: You can either shape the mixture into a traditional haggis form using foil or place it into a greased loaf tin. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30-40 minutes until firm and golden on top.
9. Serve warm: Once cooked, let the haggis rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips & Variations

“For a vegan version, simply omit any butter or use plant-based alternatives. Adding a tablespoon of marmite elevates the umami flavor, giving a more authentic haggis taste.”

• Use different grains: Substitute steel-cut oats with barley or quinoa for a twist on texture.
• Add smoky flavor: Incorporate smoked paprika or liquid smoke for a meatier aroma.
• Use cashew cream: For extra richness, blend soaked cashews and mix into the haggis before baking.
• Make mini haggis cakes: Shape the mixture into small patties and pan-fry for crispy vegetarian haggis cakes perfect for appetizers.
• Storage: Leftover haggis keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze portions for later use.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Vegetarian haggis is traditionally served with neeps and tatties—mashed turnips and potatoes—which balance the savory richness perfectly. For a modern take, try it alongside roasted root vegetables or a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette.

Consider pairing your haggis with a hearty gravy or a classic whisky sauce for an authentic Scottish experience. If you love experimenting, try serving it stuffed inside bell peppers or as a filling for savory pastries.

For more comforting recipes to accompany your vegetarian haggis, check out our Classico Sun Dried Tomato Alfredo Sauce Recipe or indulge in a sweet finish with the Chocolate Heaven Cake Recipe.

Best Vegetarian Haggis Recipes

Classic Vegetarian Haggis

The recipe detailed above is a great staple. Its hearty lentils and oats combination perfectly replicates the texture and taste of traditional haggis.

This is ideal for your first try and can be adapted with additional spices or ingredients to suit your taste.

Mushroom and Walnut Vegetarian Haggis

• 1 cup cooked lentils
• 1 cup chopped mushrooms
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
• 1/2 cup cooked barley
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

1. Cook lentils and barley separately until tender.
2. Sauté onion, garlic, and mushrooms in olive oil until soft.
3. Add walnuts, smoked paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2 minutes.
4. Combine everything in a bowl and mix well.
5. Press mixture into a greased loaf pan and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes.
6. Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Spicy Lentil and Oat Vegetarian Haggis

• 1 cup red lentils
• 1 cup steel-cut oats
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small carrot, grated
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1/2 tsp chili flakes
• 1 tsp coriander
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

1. Cook red lentils in water until soft, drain.
2. Toast oats lightly in a pan.
3. Sauté onion, garlic, and carrot in olive oil until soft.
4. Add spices, salt, and pepper; cook for 1-2 minutes more.
5. Mix lentils, oats, and vegetables thoroughly.
6. Shape into a loaf or patties and bake or pan-fry until golden.

For more hearty vegetarian dishes, explore our Costco Vegan Mushroom Stew Recipe or warm up with a comforting Chicken Shrimp And Broccoli Recipes (vegan options included).

Conclusion

Vegetarian haggis recipes offer a delicious and creative alternative to the traditional Scottish staple, making it accessible to everyone regardless of dietary preferences. With hearty lentils, oats, mushrooms, and a blend of aromatic spices, these recipes deliver all the rich, savory flavors and satisfying textures you expect from a classic haggis.

Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try one of the tasty variations, vegetarian haggis is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed year-round. It’s perfect for celebrations, cozy dinners, or anytime you want to try something new and comforting.

Don’t forget to pair it with your favorite sides and sauces to elevate the experience. Happy cooking!

{“@context”: “https://schema.org/”, “@type”: “Recipe”, “name”: “Best Vegetarian Haggis”, “image”: [], “author”: {“@type”: “Organization”, “name”: “GluttonLv”}, “description”: “A hearty and flavorful vegetarian twist on traditional Scottish haggis using lentils and mushrooms. Perfectly spiced and easy to prepare for a comforting meal.”, “prepTime”: “PT20M”, “cookTime”: “PT45M”, “totalTime”: “PT65M”, “recipeYield”: “6 servings”, “recipeIngredient”: [“1 cup brown lentils, rinsed”, “1 cup mushrooms, finely chopped”, “1 large onion, finely chopped”, “2 cloves garlic, minced”, “1 cup steel-cut oats”, “1/2 cup vegetable broth”, “2 tablespoons olive oil”, “1 teaspoon ground coriander”, “1 teaspoon ground black pepper”, “1 teaspoon smoked paprika”, “1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg”, “1/2 teaspoon salt”], “recipeInstructions”: [{“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Cook lentils in vegetable broth until tender, about 25 minutes.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Heat olive oil in a pan and saut\u00e9 onions, garlic, and mushrooms until soft.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Add spices and cook for 2 more minutes to release flavors.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Mix cooked lentils, saut\u00e9ed vegetables, and steel-cut oats in a bowl.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Season with salt and pepper, then let mixture cool slightly.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Form mixture into small patties or pack into a baking dish.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Bake at 180\u00b0C (350\u00b0F) for 20 minutes until firm and golden.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Serve warm with traditional sides like mashed potatoes and neeps.”}], “nutrition”: {“calories”: “250 kcal”, “proteinContent”: “12 g”, “fatContent”: “6 g”, “carbohydrateContent”: “35 g”}}