Image by Markus Spiske

Cabbie claw

Cabbie claw: A Culinary Delight with Quirky Nuances

Cabbie claw


The delectable dish known as cabbie claw has been tantalizing the taste buds of Scots for centuries. The name itself is both quirky and oddly enticing, conjuring up images of a robust crustacean claw wriggling its way through a flavourful broth.

So what is cabbie claw? Basically, it’s a fish stew made of cod, potatoes, leeks and seasoning, to which a combination of mussels, crab, cockles, and sometimes even oysters are added. The result is an incredibly tasty concoction that’s always sure to delight.

The origins of cabbie claw are said to go back to the early 19th Century, when it was served as a traditional supper around Scotland’s coastal regions. It began as a simple dish that fishermen could take with them out to sea, but over time it gradually grew in popularity, eventually finding its way into pubs and restaurants.

Nowadays, cabbie claw remains as popular as ever and it’s easy to see why. This hearty dish provides a depth of flavour that is sure to warm the soul on cold winter nights, while the combination of seafood ingredients gives it an interesting twist.

It’s also a dish that is surprisingly versatile, as the base ingredients can be substituted with a variety of other options; for instance, smoked haddock or salmon work just as well as cod. You can also play around with the herbs and spices used, giving the dish an extra kick of flavour.

So if you’re looking for something a bit different to try, then cabbie claw is definitely worth a try! Its unique blend of flavours and textures is sure to keep you coming back for more.

The origin of Cabbie claw

Ah, Cabbie Claw, a beloved seafood dish hailing from the east coast of Scotland. This humble recipe is one of the most distinctive and recognizable Scottish meals out there – but where did it come from?

As with many local food staples, the exact origin of this seafood delicacy may be lost forever in the misty annals of time. What we do know, though, is that it has been enjoyed in Scotland for centuries, and its ingredients remain closely linked with traditional Scottish cuisine.

The most popular explanation is that the recipe was invented in the 1770s by a mild-mannered cabbie named John MacLeod. After being caught in a rainstorm while out on his rounds, John decided to stop at a tavern for some refreshment. The proprietress kindly served him a plate of her own home-made stew – made from smoked haddock, potatoes, onions, and herbs which were commonplace in Scotland at the time.

John was so taken by the flavour and texture of the stew that he asked the proprietress for the recipe, which she kindly granted. After a few days of tinkering, the recipe morphed into what we now know as Cabbie Claw.

Over time, this delicious creation started to gain popularity in the fishing villages of Scotland, and eventually spread northward throughout Scotland and beyond. Its popularity continues to this day, and is a favourite amongst restaurant chefs and home cooks alike.

The name 'Cabbie Claw' remains somewhat of a mystery, though some believe it was named after the aforementioned John MacLeod, who was often known affectionately as 'Cabbie', or 'Old Cabbie'.

So next time you tuck into a plate of the delightful Cabbie Claw, spare a thought for John and his hard-working cabbies who helped popularize this quintessential Scottish dish.

Types of Cabbie claw

When it comes to classic comfort food dishes, there is no shortage of options. From fried chicken to mashed potatoes, almost anything can be made into a warm, delicious and satisfying meal. One dish that stands out from the rest, however, is called cabbie claw. This unique dish is a delightful combination of thick crabmeat, butter, and spices, all cooked in a creamy sauce.

Cabbie claw is traditionally made from frozen, pasteurized crabmeat and is served over pasta or rice as an entrée. The dish starts with garlic and shallots sautéed in butter until fragrant. Next, a mixture of flour and butter is melted and combined with the sautéed aromatics to create a thick roux. Then crabmeat and other seasonings, such as thyme and bay leaves, are added to the pot and simmered until the sauce thickens. Lastly, a finishing touch of freshly grated Parmesan cheese gives the dish a cheesy finish.

Cabbie claw makes a great meal on its own, but can also be served as an accompaniment to other dishes. For instance, one popular variation is to combine the cabbie claw with roasted vegetables, like sweet potatoes, mushrooms, and bell peppers. This adds a depth of flavor to the dish and makes it a complete meal. Additionally, cabbie claw can be made in advance and refrigerated for up to five days, making it an ideal meal-prep option.

No matter how it's prepared, cabbie claw is sure to please the palate. Its combination of rich flavors, creamy texture and indulgent ingredients make it a dish fit for any occasion. If you're looking to add some variety to your dinner table, cabbie claw is always a great choice!