Barley bread soup
Scotch broth is a traditional, hearty Scottish soup featuring barley as its key ingredient, often cooked with lamb or beef, root vegetables like carrots and turnips, and sometimes leeks. It's a warming, rustic dish that has been a staple in Scotland for centuries, particularly valued for its ability to stretch a small amount of meat into a filling meal.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
This dish is a balanced, nutrient-dense meal, primarily providing complex carbohydrates from the barley and vegetables, with a moderate amount of protein from the meat. A typical serving is a good source of fiber, B vitamins, and minerals like potassium and iron, generally ranging from 250-350 calories.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 310 kcal |
| Protein | 18 g |
| Carbs | 35 g |
| Fat | 10 g |
| Fiber | 7 g |
| Sugar | 5 g |
| Sodium | 650 mg |
| Potassium | 480 mg |
| Iron | 2.8 mg |
| Vitamin A | 8500 IU |
| Vitamin C | 12 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.4 mg |
| Niacin (B3) | 5.2 mg |
| Magnesium | 55 mg |
| Zinc | 3.1 mg |
Per 1.5 cups (360 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Culturally, Scotch broth is a classic example of 'peasant food' or 'comfort food,' embodying the Scottish principle of using affordable, locally sourced ingredients to create a nourishing and satisfying meal. Nutritionally, the soluble fiber in barley is known to help manage cholesterol and stabilize blood sugar levels.
