A re-schededuled but nevertheless fabulous evening at the Salle des Fêtes in our delightful village of Ossun-ez-Angles, in the Hautes Pyrénées - a massive thank you to all the guests who trekked up the mountain to celebrate the life and poetry of Robert Burns (25 January 1759 – 21 July 1796), the author of many a Scottish dirge.
A traditional 'Burns Supper' was served with a few tweaks along the way. We whipped up our signature grazing board to kick off the evening with 'apéritifs et canapés' including a few gluten-free and vegetarian options. Entrée was a smoked salmon mousse on a bed of watercress and walnuts from the garden, served with a vinaigrette dressing. Main course (was of course) HAGGIS from MacSween of Edinburgh, Clap Shot Whisky Peppercorn Sauce with which, at the last minute I panicked, thinking it might be too spicy for our French guests - I was totally wrong and according to feedback everyone loved it!
Doug , Dewar and Joy stepped in and read The Addess to the Haggis, Toast to the Lasses and the Responses. The whisky toasts went down a treat and the dessert was Cranachan (thank you Mary Berry). Coffee and shortbread to finish.
The Antics began with Caitlin giving an impromptu demonstration of the sword dance (amazing and thank you Caitlin), then the guests twirled and whirled to the Gay Gordons, Strip the Willow, The Dashing White Sergeant and the Canadian Barn Dance. Finally sometime after midinight, exhausted but happy our guests drifted home.
