Cullen Skink
A rich and creamy Scottish soup made with smoked haddock, potatoes, and onions. It's a comforting classic, perfect as a starter or a light meal.

๐ง Ingredients
- 400 g Smoked Haddock(skinless and boneless)
- 500 g Potatoes(Maris Piper or similar floury potato, peeled and diced)
- 1 large Onion(finely chopped)
- 600 ml Milk
- 300 ml Water
- 30 g Butter
- 2 tbsp Fresh Parsley(chopped, for garnish)
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black Pepper(freshly ground)
๐จโ๐ณ Instructions
- 1
Place the smoked haddock in a saucepan with the milk and water. Bring to a gentle simmer and poach for about 5-7 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through.
โฑ๏ธ 7 minutes๐ก Tip: Do not boil the fish, as this can make it tough. - 2
Remove the haddock from the liquid, reserving the poaching liquid. Flake the fish into large pieces, discarding any skin or bones.
๐ก Tip: Ensure all bones are removed carefully for safety. - 3
In a separate large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook gently for 5-7 minutes until softened but not browned.
โฑ๏ธ 7 minutes๐ก Tip: Sweating the onions slowly brings out their sweetness. - 4
Add the diced potatoes to the saucepan with the onions. Pour in the reserved poaching liquid and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
โฑ๏ธ 20 minutes๐ก Tip: The potatoes will help to thicken the soup. - 5
Pour in the milk and bring the soup back to a gentle simmer. Add the flaked smoked haddock and heat through for a few minutes.
๐ก Tip: Avoid boiling the soup once the milk is added to prevent curdling. - 6
Season the Cullen Skink with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Stir in most of the chopped parsley.
๐ก Tip: Smoked haddock can be salty, so taste before adding too much salt. - 7
Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with the remaining fresh parsley, and serve hot.
๐ก Tip: Serve with crusty bread for dipping.
๐ก Pro Tips
- โUse good quality smoked haddock for the best flavor.
- โFor a smoother soup, you can blend a portion of the potatoes and liquid before adding the fish.
- โA splash of cream can be added for extra richness, though it's not strictly traditional.
โจ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add a bay leaf to the poaching liquid for extra aroma.
- Some recipes include a small amount of leek or celery along with the onion.