Skirlie

by Kim MacFarlane
(Wormit, Fife, Scotland)

Skirlie is a traditional Scottish side dish or stuffing but over the years has been adapted to become a very tasty main meal. The name, Skirlie comes originally from the way it is cooked – Skirled in the pan.

As it is made with oatmeal, it is a very filling meal that will keep you satisfied for hours.

Leave out the minced beef and use as a stuffing for chicken or turkey and tastes fantastic once it soaks up the bird’s juices.


50g of butter or dripping
1 onion - finely chopped
500g mined beef
175g oatmeal
Salt and pepper


1. Melt the butter in a pan and add the onion and
mince frying gently to soften.

2. Stir in the oatmeal, season and cook gently for 10 minutes.

3. Serve with oatcakes, and enjoy whilst piping hot.