Discover the traditional recipe that won the Cullen Skink World Championships.
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In a delightful twist of culinary tradition, Lynne Watson, the owner of Lily’s Kitchen in Cullen, has unveiled the secret behind her award-winning Cullen Skink. This traditional Scottish fish soup has not only captured the hearts of locals but also secured victory at the prestigious Cullen Skink World Championships.
Lynne’s triumph is rooted in a cherished family recipe passed down through generations.
A family legacy of flavor
Lynne, originally hailing from Aberdeen, has made Cullen her home for over a decade. Her cafe, located on Seafield Street, has become a beloved spot for both residents and visitors seeking the authentic taste of Cullen Skink.
The recipe, which she attributes to her grandmother, has undergone some modern tweaks thanks to her mother’s influence. “The recipe is my grandma’s, but my mum has made some tweaks to it. She’s definitely helped perfect it!” Lynne shared with The Press and Journal.
The art of preparation
Competing against 12 other contestants, each given just 45 minutes to prepare their best version of Cullen Skink, Lynne’s dish stood out during the blind taste test conducted by the judges. The secret to her success? A commitment to using top-quality ingredients. “Making sure you have the best fish possible is vital to give you the base of a really good Cullen Skink,” she explained. Lynne emphasizes that her approach is straightforward: “Mine is very much so plain and simple. There’s no messing about with it!”
A community favorite
Winning the championship for the second time, following her first victory in 2018, has brought a much-welcomed boost to Lynne’s business. “It’s definitely our bestseller and it’s been incredibly busy today! Everyone has been coming along for a try,” she noted, highlighting the community’s enthusiasm for her award-winning dish. The Cullen Skink has become synonymous with Lily’s Kitchen, drawing in customers eager to experience the authentic flavors that have made it a champion.
Preserving tradition in a modern world
As culinary trends evolve, Lynne remains steadfast in her belief that sticking to traditional methods is essential. While many may opt for modern variations of Cullen Skink, she insists on the importance of maintaining the integrity of the dish. “Top-quality ingredients are so important,” she reiterated, underscoring her dedication to preserving the essence of this beloved Scottish classic.
With her grandmother’s recipe at the heart of her culinary creations, Lynne Watson continues to honor her family’s legacy while delighting the taste buds of Cullen residents and visitors alike. The success of Lily’s Kitchen is a testament to the power of tradition, quality, and community support in the world of gastronomy.
