Instructions: In a large saucepan, cover the lamb and bones with salt water, bring to a boil - skimming scum as necessary - reduce heat, cover, and simmer for an hour. Remove lamb and bones when done - cut the meat into bite-sized pieces and reserve, discarding bones and gristle.

Bring the stock to a boil and add the rutabaga, carrots, onions, beans, and 1 cup of peas. Reduce heat and simmer, covered, for 1 1/2 hours. Add the cauliflower pieces, the reserved meat, the lettuce, the rest of the peas, mint, sugar, and season to taste with salt and pepper. Cover and simmer for 30 minutes, until the cauliflower is tender.

When ready to serve, ladle into bowls and stir in the fresh parsley.

Serve hot as a meal to 4 to 6 people.

Comments: In 1819, J. G. Lockheart observed about Hotch-Potch that it is, "Also called Hairst Bree, meaning harvest broth...a truly delicious soup, quite peculiar to Scotland." Indeed, it was considered quite special to the Scots as it meant all fresh vegetables and freshly slaughtered meat at summers end were packed into a light broth for a wonderfully fresh soup. Its quite attractive, with white, bright orange, and dark green vegetable chunks, redolent of lamb and fresh herbs. And its substantial - the very soul of comfort after a cold day on the highlands.

If you would like to email yourself the recipe for later use, or share the recipe with your friends or family, enter the email addresses below and this recipe will be emailed to you and others as well.