Burns Night is a much-loved celebration of Scottish culture, poetry and food – and a brilliant opportunity to gather friends and family around a table. While the traditional supper will always have its place, there’s growing interest in creating modern, shareable boards that feel festive without being fussy.
If you’re planning something a little different this year, a Burns Night board is a simple, sociable option, and naturally, it’s a perfect place for Stockan's oatcakes. Here’s how to create a board that celebrates Scotland’s roots while offering a fresh twist.
Start with the classics
A good Burns Night board should honour the flavours people expect. Consider including:
Hot Smoked Salmon - Rich, smoky and full of depth. Serve it flaked with a squeeze of lemon and a crack of pepper. Its savoury warmth pairs beautifully with coarse-milled oatcakes.
Scottish Cheeses - Crowdie, Mull cheddar or a soft Scottish goat’s cheese bring natural richness and are ideal for layering. These choices give your board an anchor – familiar, comforting and undeniably Scottish.
Haggis, Neeps & Tatties - Layer the haggis or vegetarian haggis with some neeps and tatties on the Mini oatcakes and serve with chutney or whisky sauce for a tatsty bite sized traditional treat.
Add modern, versatile twists
Burns Night might be steeped in tradition, but the board doesn’t have to be predictable. Adding lighter, plant-based or colourful elements gives guests more choice and reflects how we eat today.
Cottage Cheese & Herb Bites - Fresh and versatile, these topping ideas from the Christmas recipe collection bring a lighter bite that contrasts well with smoked or creamy flavours.
Roasted Cauliflower with Warm Spices - This unexpected topping adds warmth without heaviness. It’s vegan, full of depth, and excellent on Orkney Beremeal Oatcakes.
Beetroot & Soft Cheese - Earthy, vibrant and beautiful on the plate. A little drizzle of honey gives it a modern touch.
Tomato, Basil & Black Pepper - A refreshing option that cuts through richer elements, ideal for guests who prefer something brighter.
These additions allow your board to feel more inclusive, offering choices for guests who prefer plant-based or lighter flavours.
Finish with something sweet
Even a modern Burns board needs a moment of sweetness. Cranachan-inspired bites, lemony treats or Coconut Chocolate Truffles bring the whole board together.
Celebrate Scotland
Stockan's has deep roots in Scottish food traditions. The use of wholegrain oats and traditional baking skills is a quiet nod to Scotland’s heritage – and makes oatcakes a natural fit for any Burns Night spread. The signature triangle shape, which dates back centuries, brings visual interest and a touch of authenticity without needing to recreate a full Burns supper.
Because oatcakes are so versatile, your Burns Night board can be as elaborate or as straightforward as you like:
- A few carefully chosen toppings
- A selection of cheeses
- Something warm and savoury
- Something light and plant-based
- And, of course, a sweet bite for balance
It’s a modern way to celebrate a beloved tradition – and ideal for anyone who prefers a relaxed get-together to a full sit-down meal.
