If you love warm and hearty soups, this Hairy Bikers Scotch Broth Recipe is perfect for you. It is rich, filling and full of simple goodness.
Today I will show you How to make Hairy Bikers Scotch Broth in easy steps. The Ingredients for Hairy Bikers Scotch Broth are wholesome and affordable.
This classic Scottish soup is perfect for cold evenings. It feels comforting, nourishing and made with love.
Why I Love Making This Hairy Bikers Scotch Broth
The first time I made this soup, it was raining outside. My kitchen felt cozy and warm. The smell of lamb and vegetables slowly cooking filled the air.
I remember tasting the broth and feeling instant comfort. This Hairy Bikers Scotch Broth Recipe reminds me of simple home cooking. It is not fancy, but it is deeply satisfying. Every spoonful feels like a warm hug.
Equipment List
- Large heavy pot
- Wooden spoon
- Sharp knife
- Chopping board
- Measuring cups
- Ladle
- Bowl for serving
Recipe Overview
- Recipe Name: Hairy Bikers Scotch Broth
- Servings: 6 people
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 90 mins
- Total Time: 110 mins
- Course: Soup
- Cuisine: Scottish
- Calories: 320 kcal per serving

Ingredients You Need for Hairy Bikers Scotch Broth
- 500g lamb neck or shoulder, diced
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 1 leek, sliced
- 1 turnip, diced
- 100g pearl barley
- 1.5 liters lamb or beef stock
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Brown the Lamb
Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced lamb and cook until browned on all sides. Stir gently while cooking. Browning adds deep flavor to the broth. Do not rush this step.
2. Add the Vegetables
Add chopped onion, carrots, leek and turnip to the pot. Stir well. Cook for about five minutes until vegetables soften slightly. The mixture will smell fresh and savory.
3. Add Barley and Herbs
Stir in pearl barley, bay leaf and thyme. Mix everything well so the barley is coated with juices. This step builds the base of the soup.
4. Pour in the Stock
Add the stock slowly to the pot. Bring everything to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 75 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
5. Adjust Seasoning
After cooking, taste the broth carefully. Add salt and black pepper if needed. Remove the bay leaf before serving. The barley should be soft and tender.
6. Finish and Serve
Sprinkle fresh parsley on top before serving. Ladle the hot soup into bowls. Serve warm with crusty bread for a complete meal.
Read More: James Martin Leek and Potato Soup Recipe
Expert Tips & Variations
- Use mutton for a stronger flavor.
- Soak barley for 30 minutes to reduce cooking time.
- Add chopped cabbage in the last 20 minutes.
- Skim any foam from the surface while simmering.
- Make it thicker by adding extra barley.
- For lighter broth, use lean lamb cuts.
History or Fun Fact About the Dish
Scotch broth is a traditional Scottish soup. It has been enjoyed for centuries. Farmers made it using lamb and root vegetables.
Pearl barley became popular because it was affordable and filling. The Hairy Bikers helped modern audiences rediscover this comforting classic.
Pairings & Complementary Recipes
Serve this soup with crusty bread or oatcakes. It pairs beautifully with simple green salad. You can also serve it before a roast dinner. A slice of buttered toast makes it even better.
Occasion or Event Ideas
This soup is perfect for cold winter nights. It works well for family gatherings. Serve it during holidays or Sunday dinners. It is also great for meal prep during busy weeks.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently on the stove over low heat.
- Add a splash of water if it becomes too thick.
- Freeze in portions for up to 2 months.
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Protein | 22 g |
| Carbohydrates | 28 g |
| Fat | 12 g |
| Fiber | 5 g |
| Iron | Good source |
Health Benefits
This Hairy Bikers Scotch Broth Recipe is rich in protein from lamb. Pearl barley adds fiber for healthy digestion. Vegetables provide vitamins and minerals.
The broth is warming and nourishing. It supports energy and keeps you full longer. It is a balanced and wholesome meal in one bowl.

Hairy Bikers Scotch Broth Recipe
Ingredients
- 500 g lamb neck or shoulder diced
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 1 large onion chopped
- 2 carrots diced
- 1 leek sliced
- 1 turnip diced
- 100 g pearl barley
- 1.5 liters lamb or beef stock
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley chopped
Instructions
Brown the Lamb
- Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced lamb and cook until browned on all sides. Stir gently while cooking. Browning adds deep flavor to the broth. Do not rush this step.
Add the Vegetables
- Add chopped onion, carrots, leek and turnip to the pot. Stir well. Cook for about five minutes until vegetables soften slightly. The mixture will smell fresh and savory.
Add Barley and Herbs
- Stir in pearl barley, bay leaf and thyme. Mix everything well so the barley is coated with juices. This step builds the base of the soup.
Pour in the Stock
- Add the stock slowly to the pot. Bring everything to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 75 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Adjust Seasoning
- After cooking, taste the broth carefully. Add salt and black pepper if needed. Remove the bay leaf before serving. The barley should be soft and tender.
Finish and Serve
- Sprinkle fresh parsley on top before serving. Ladle the hot soup into bowls. Serve warm with crusty bread for a complete meal.
Notes
- Use mutton for a stronger flavor.
- Soak barley for 30 minutes to reduce cooking time.
- Add chopped cabbage in the last 20 minutes.
- Skim any foam from the surface while simmering.
- Make it thicker by adding extra barley.
- For lighter broth, use lean lamb cuts.
FAQs about Hairy Bikers Scotch Broth
1. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, brown the lamb first. Then add all ingredients to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6 to 8 hours until tender.
2. Can I use beef instead of lamb?
Yes, beef works well. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious. Choose stewing beef for best texture.
3. Why is my broth too thick?
Barley absorbs liquid as it cooks. Add extra hot stock or water when reheating. Stir well to adjust consistency.
4. Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes, skip lamb and use vegetable stock. Add mushrooms and extra vegetables for depth. The flavor will be lighter but still comforting.
5. How to make Hairy Bikers Scotch Broth richer?
Use homemade stock for deeper flavor. Simmer slowly and avoid rushing the process. Browning the meat well also adds richness.
Final Thoughts
This Hairy Bikers Scotch Broth Recipe is warm, filling and deeply comforting. Now you know How to make Hairy Bikers Scotch Broth at home easily.
The Ingredients for Hairy Bikers Scotch Broth are simple and wholesome. This soup brings comfort on cold days and joy to the dinner table. Try it once and enjoy a taste of Scotland in your own kitchen.

Zoey Lane is the voice behind ZoeyCooks.com, where she shares comforting, home-tested recipes inspired by everyday cooking. She believes great food should be simple, approachable and enjoyable to make.












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