Traditionally, the Irish food diet was rich in dairy and vegetables. These were combined with meat to provide the Irish people with a balanced diet.
The first people to settle in Ireland were hunter-gatherers. They would have gathered berries and wild greens such as kale, cabbage, and wild onions. These were eaten along with the meat they caught. They would also have had fish, shellfish, and oysters.
Irish food was also rich in wild herbs and spices. These included garlic, onions, and parsnips. Some other foods included elderberries, whortleberries, and rowan berries.
During famines, food was scarce and families sometimes ate dogs and other animals. This was considered an abnormal practice.
The first people to settle in Ireland would have eaten a variety of fish and shellfish. The salmon was a particularly popular fish. It was said to have magical powers. A salmon that was healthy would mean long life and strength.
Irish food is also rich in potatoes. They are a good source of vitamins and minerals. They are also an energy-producing crop. The potato was first introduced to Ireland in the second half of the 16th century. It was the main food crop for the poor. The elites ignored the potato for centuries.
After the 8th century, onions were added to Irish food. They were used to thicken stews and soups. Other vegetables included carrots, wild greens, and wild cherries.
The dairy industry in Ireland dates back millennia. Milk curdles were an important delicacy. These were often mixed with honey to produce a dessert. Milk was also thickened into a buttermilk.