If you’re looking for some traditional Irish meal ideas, you’ve come to the right place. These wholesome dishes are perfect for any day of the year, and they’ll make you feel all warm and cozy!
There’s something about a pot of beef stew that feels oh-so-right. Loaded with hearty veggies and that amazing Guinness stout gravy, it’s one of those dishes that can transport you back to a different time and place with each bite.
Corned Beef and Cabbage
Corned beef and cabbage is one of the most popular dishes for Irish-Americans to enjoy. It’s a simple yet hearty meal that’s delicious for both special occasions and weekday dinners.
The meat starts out as a beef brisket that’s been brine-cured, which means it’s saturated in salt crystals. It’s then seasoned with pickling spices to add flavor.
When choosing your corned beef, look for a brisket that is fatty and full of marbling, which will result in more flavor. Traditionally, the meat is cured for at least ten days with a brine solution that contains various spices.
To cook in a slow cooker, place the corned beef into the pot and add enough cold water to cover. Then, add the brine from the sealed package right over top.
Smoked Salmon
Smoked salmon is a smoky, salty treat that is good for you. It’s low in calories, high in protein and full of omega-3 fatty acids.
It’s also a great source of astaxanthin, a powerful antioxidant that lowers your heart disease risk. And if you’re trying to lose weight, it can help with your metabolism and keep you feeling fuller longer.
To get the best smoked salmon, make sure you buy wild-caught fish raised in pristine waters. They’re typically more vigorous and have layers of omega-3 fatty acids that they’ve packed on to help them run up the rivers.
Apple Cakes
Apple cakes are a traditional Irish dessert that harkens back to times when meals were a shared experience. They’re delicious plain or topped with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
This simple recipe for apple cake is moist and sweet, bursting with chunks of fresh apples. You can also stir in a few chopped toasted walnuts or sprinkle on a cinnamon-sugar topping before baking to add even more flavor.
Make this easy cake for an afternoon snack or to serve as a dessert when you want to showcase fresh apples. Try Granny Smith, Braeburn, Cortland or Rome Beauty apples for a rich, slightly tart flavor.
Beef Stew
Beef stew is a hearty and comforting meal that soothes the soul and tummy. This particular recipe features tender beef, carrots, potatoes, and parsnips all slow simmered in a rich broth made from beef stock, Guinness beer, and wine.
While stew meat is the traditional ingredient in Irish stew, you can also substitute cubes of lamb or a combination of steak and roast. Just be sure to season it with salt and pepper before cooking.
Brown the meat in a skillet before adding it to your slow cooker. This will help thicken the stew. If needed, you can mix flour with water to create a slurry and add it during the last 15-20 minutes of cooking.
Irish Soda Bread
Soda bread is an easy and delicious 4-ingredient quick bread that requires no kneading or rising. It relies on baking soda and buttermilk (acid) to leaven its dough, giving it a rustic yet tender crumb.
Irish soda bread is a popular staple on Ireland’s tables, often served with soup or stew. It is a symbol of Irish heritage, and is celebrated in the lead up to St. Patrick’s Day.
Traditional soda bread is made with four core ingredients, flour, baking soda, sour milk, and a little salt. But it can be made with other ingredients, like raisins and caraway seeds.