The Origins of Scouse
In the bustling city of Liverpool, there’s a dish that transcends time, a culinary masterpiece born out of hardship and resilience – Scouse. Originally known as Labskause, this iconic stew made its way into the hearts and stomachs of the people, shaping the very identity of Liverpudlians.
Scouse and the Liverpool Identity
Along the docks and port towns — Pier Head, Birkenhead, Wallasey, Bootle, Dingle, and Seaforth — Scouse became a cheap, filling staple. The nickname “Scousers” grew out of this tradition, forever linking the dish to the people of Liverpool.
From Labskause to Scouse
Brought by Northern European sailors as “Labskause,” the name was shortened to ‘Skause’ and eventually anglicised into the version we know today: Scouse.
A Dish with Endless Variations
Scouse is more than just a stew — it’s a dish every Liverpudlian family claims to cook the best. While the base often includes lamb, beef, or both, the variations are as diverse as the families that prepare it.
Classic Scouse Recipe
Ingredients
500g Diced beef chuck
500g Lamb mince
3 Medium onions
5 Carrots
600g Peeled potatoes
1 Leek
1 litre Beef stock
2 tbsp Tomato puree
2 tbsp Black treacle
1 tbsp Wholegrain mustard
Cooking Instructions
Brown the beef in a large saucepan; set aside.
Seal lamb mince in the same pan.
Add diced onion and chopped carrots; cook until softened.
Return beef to the pan, stir in tomato puree, and add potatoes.
Pour in beef stock, bring to a simmer, and cook for approximately 2 hours until tender.
Add sliced leeks, treacle, and mustard; cook for an additional 20 minutes.
Check seasoning and serve with crusty bread, pickled red cabbage, or beetroot.
Scouse in Modern Liverpool
Scouse has become a cultural symbol of resilience, celebrated annually on Global Scouse Day (28th February). Today, you’ll find Scouse served at Liverpool favourites like Maggie Mays, Ma Boyles, and Lucy in The Sky — and of course, on our very own Liverpool Food Tours where guests can experience authentic local flavours.
More Than Just a Stew
Scouse remains more than a recipe — it’s Liverpool’s heritage in a bowl, representing tradition, resilience, and community spirit.
