From frothy pints of Guinness to creamy ice cream, the Emerald Isle is bursting with flavours. From Dublin to Dingle, Ireland is a gastronomic paradise.
Traditional Irish foods are hearty, satisfying and full of fresh ingredients from local farms and gardens. It’s no wonder that Irish foods are considered some of the best in the world.
Farmer’s Markets
Farmers’ markets are an important part of life in many Irish towns, allowing small food and garden producers the opportunity to sell their goods to locals. They are also a great place to meet locals and try authentic Irish street food with a artisan twist.
With a growing trend for ‘buying local’, Irish farmer’s markets have grown into a vital stepping stone for fledgling food and drink producers. Among the colourful stalls you’ll find chefs bartering over fresh ingredients, locals catching up with the traders they meet every week and visitors diving headfirst into the best food a region has to offer.
The Meeting House Square market in Dublin is a must visit, offering an ever-expanding selection of Irish food and drink from organic produce to meats and cheeses. It also has a thriving range of street food, including crepes and fresh oysters.
Seafood
Ireland may be renowned for potatoes and pints of Guinness, but the country also has a rich food and drink culture. The country is known for its simple, hearty cuisine and many restaurants focus on ingredients produced or grown in Ireland.
Seafood is an important part of Irish food culture and has a long history. It is not as popular in Ireland as it is in other maritime countries, but a recent resurgence of seafood has been noticed throughout the country.
Shellfish are abundant in Irish waters and are sold in most restaurants and supermarkets. They can be steamed or served in other dishes. Prawns, in particular, are popular on menus throughout the country.
Meat
Irish dishes often feature a combination of meat and vegetables. Beef is the most popular option, but mutton or lamb are also in demand.
Meat in Ireland has a long history, with many traditional dishes dating back to the Pre-Christian era. Cattle-rearing is a traditional industry, and the number of cows owned by a farmer is a sign of wealth and status.
Pork was an important source of protein in ancient Ireland, and pigs were fattened on acorns in the wild. Salted pork was preserved and traded for salt in exchange for other foods.
Sheep and chickens were also eaten. Chickens were often raised by women and their eggs were sold as a way of supporting their families.
Vegetables
The food culture in Ireland has a long history and is very distinct from that of mainland Europe. It has developed its own customs and techniques for growing vegetables and plants over many centuries.
Cucumbers are a staple vegetable of Ireland and have been grown in this country for thousands of years. They are available all year round, but they’re best in the spring and summer when they’re harvested at the peak of their growth.
Potatoes are another Irish vegetable that have become a staple of the country’s cuisine. They’re a versatile veggie that can be eaten with just about anything.
They’re also one of the easiest vegetables to grow in a cooler, damp climate. They can even be cultivated inside a greenhouse or polytunnel.
Desserts
After a heavy meal and a pint or two of beer, Ireland’s desserts are a welcome way to wind down. From traditional baked goods to boozy sweets made with whiskey, we’ve rounded up our favorite Irish treats for the perfect ending to your feast.
Chocolate cake can be a bit too sweet for some, but sprinkling it with a glug of slightly bitter stout is just right to balance the flavor. Add a layer of Irish buttercream frosting and you’re set for a deliciously decadent treat.