Typical Irish foods are big and filling, based on meats, potatoes and vegetables. These traditional meals were often cooked over fires in the past, and many of them are still slow cooked today.
Authentically Irish dishes are a welcome addition to any meal, from simple soups to hearty stews. From fluffy champ to soul-warming lamb stew, these classic Irish recipes will keep you cozy and satisfied.
Black Pudding
Black pudding is a breakfast staple in Ireland, the UK and many parts of the world. It’s made from pig blood, oatmeal, pork fat or beef suet, onion and spices.
It’s also often fried in bacon grease to add extra flavor, but it can be baked, boiled, grilled or roasted as well. It can be served with other foods as a savory accompaniment or used in recipes to add additional bulk and texture.
It is an extremely rich, filling dish and offers a number of delicious flavours. Try it in the centre of a pork fillet parcel with rhubarb to bring out its richness. It’s a good substitute for beef in stuffing, too.
White Pudding
White pudding is a sausage-like dish made of oatmeal, breadcrumbs, pork or beef suet, and spices. It is eaten throughout Scotland, Ireland, parts of Canada and England.
MasterClass explains that it is made by blending cereal grain (oatmeal or barley) with animal fats (usually pork or beef suet). It’s then stuffed into a sausage casing and boiled before being cooled in cold water.
In Scotland, it is often paired with “mince and tatties” (minced meats and potatoes) or battered and deep-fried in a chip shop. It is also served as part of a traditional Irish breakfast or supper.
Teacake
Teacake is a dessert that is usually served with afternoon tea. Depending on the region, it can be made with leavening agents or without.
A traditional English tea cake is a sweet yeast bun that can be flavored with sultanas or peel, and toasted and served with butter and a cup of tea. In East Lancashire and parts of Yorkshire, they are called currant teacakes.
These small cakes are a popular treat with tea in the UK. They can be made with or without sultanas and are typically topped with raisins or other dried fruit.
Fish Chowder or Stew
If you’re looking for a tasty way to eat fish, fish chowder or stew is the perfect solution. It’s a light and gently creamy soup that’s full of flavor.
It’s also easy to make and perfect for lunch or dinner. The combination of smoked and fresh fish creates a delicious broth.
You can use a variety of fish for this recipe, including salmon or haddock. You can also add other seafood, such as clams or lobster, for more flavor.
Fish & Chips
Fish and chips is a popular dish consisting of fried fish coated in a crispy batter, usually served with large pieces of potato. It is a popular take-away item in Britain and Ireland, and has become one of the country’s most consumed foods.
The batter is made from flour mixed with water or beer, depending on the recipe. Baking soda adds lightness, and vinegar helps to create bubbles in the batter.
A variety of fish is used in this dish, including cod, haddock, pollock and catfish. The potatoes are usually Russet potatoes, and they are sliced and deep-fried. They are then served with a sprinkling of oil and malt vinegar, or sometimes with tartar sauce or ketchup.