10 Classic Irish Dishes for St. Patrick’s Day

Did you know that St. Patrick’s Day is celebrated by over 70 million people worldwide, far outnumbering those who actually live in Ireland?

This festive occasion is not only a time for parades and wearing green but also for indulging in delicious Irish cuisine that warms the soul.

Get ready to elevate your celebration with 10 classic Irish dishes that will bring a taste of Ireland right to your table.

From the comforting flavors of Shepherd’s Pie Delight to the hearty richness of Beef and Guinness Stew, this collection has something for everyone.

You’ll discover authentic recipes for both well-loved favorites and maybe even some new ones to try this St. Patrick’s Day!

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1 Shepherd’s Pie Delight

Shepherd’s Pie Delight is a comforting dish that combines savory ground meat with a rich vegetable filling, all topped with creamy mashed potatoes. This hearty meal is perfect for colder days and is sure to please everyone at the dinner table. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Additional Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450 g) ground lamb or beef
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 cups mashed potatoes (prepared)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

Instructions:

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground lamb or beef. Cook until it’s browned, breaking it up as it cooks. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.

Next, add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent. Then, incorporate the diced carrots and cook for another 5 minutes, allowing them to soften.

Stir in the frozen peas, tomato paste, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and dried thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let this mixture simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a baking dish, spread the meat and vegetable mixture evenly at the bottom. Spoon the mashed potatoes over the filling, spreading them out smoothly. If you like, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top.

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and slightly crispy. Once done, let it cool for 10 minutes before serving.

Extra Tips:

1. For an extra flavor boost, try adding some fresh herbs like parsley or rosemary.
2. You can use leftover roast meat instead of fresh ground meat for a quicker preparation.
3. Customize your veggies by adding corn or bell peppers to enhance both taste and nutrition.

Nutrition Facts:

• Calories: 350 per serving
• Total Fat: 15 g
• Saturated Fat: 6 g
• Cholesterol: 90 mg
• Sodium: 500 mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 40 g
• Dietary Fiber: 5 g
• Sugars: 4 g
• Protein: 20 g

2 Irish Soda Bread Bliss

Irish Soda Bread Bliss is a delightful twist on the classic Irish bread, combining simplicity with rich flavor. It’s perfect for slathering with butter or enjoying with soup. Made with just a handful of ingredients, this bread is sure to impress!

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 8

Ingredients:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 3/4 cups buttermilk
• 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
• 1/2 cup raisins or currants (optional)

Instructions:

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gently whisk the dry ingredients to ensure they are thoroughly mixed.

Make a well in the center of the flour mixture and pour in the buttermilk and honey if you are using it. Using your hands, gradually incorporate the flour into the liquid until a dough forms. Be careful not to overmix; the dough should be slightly sticky.

If you’re adding raisins or currants, fold them into the dough at this point. This adds a delightful sweetness to your bread.

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead it for about 1 minute. Shape the dough into a round loaf that is about 1.5 inches thick.

Transfer the loaf to the prepared baking sheet and cut a deep cross into the top with a sharp knife. This helps the bread to bake evenly and gives it that classic appearance.

Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Allow it to cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before slicing. Enjoy your Irish Soda Bread Bliss warm or at room temperature!

Extra Tips:

1. For a richer flavor, consider adding 1 tablespoon of melted butter to the dough.
2. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by mixing 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar with 1 3/4 cups of milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes.
3. Serve with a selection of spreads like butter, jam, or a rich Irish cheese to elevate the experience.

Nutrition Facts:

• Calories: 120 per serving
• Protein: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fat: 1g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 0.5g

3 Colcannon Comfort

Colcannon Comfort is a hearty and comforting Irish dish made with creamy mashed potatoes, kale or cabbage, and a hint of spring onions. It’s the perfect side to warm you up during chilly evenings or to accompany your favorite protein. This traditional recipe is sure to delight your taste buds!

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Additional Time: None
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and quartered
• 1 cup kale or cabbage, finely chopped
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 1 cup milk or cream
• 4 spring onions, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Begin by placing the peeled and quartered potatoes in a large pot and covering them with cold water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let them simmer until tender, roughly 15-20 minutes.

While the potatoes are cooking, prepare the vegetables. In a separate saucepan, add a bit of water and place the kale or cabbage inside. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the greens are tender, then drain and set aside.

Once the potatoes are fork-tender, drain them and return them to the pot over low heat. This helps to evaporate any excess moisture. Use a potato masher or ricer to mash the potatoes until they’re smooth and creamy.

Stir in the butter and milk or cream, mixing well until fully incorporated. Then, fold in the cooked greens and chopped spring onions to the creamy potato mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste, ensuring everything is well blended.

Finally, serve the Colcannon Comfort warm, optionally garnished with a pat of butter on top for an extra touch of richness.

Extra Tips:

1. For added flavor, try incorporating some cooked bacon or ham into the mixture.
2. If you prefer, substitute buttermilk for cream for a tangy twist.
3. This dish can be prepared ahead and reheated; it also freezes well for future meals.

Nutrition Facts:

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 46g
• Fat: 14g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 2g

4 Beef and Guinness Stew

Rich, hearty, and bursting with flavors, Beef and Guinness Stew is a classic Irish dish perfect for celebrating any occasion. The deep, robust taste of Guinness beer melds beautifully with tender beef and a medley of vegetables, creating a comforting stew that warms both the body and soul.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 50 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
• Salt and pepper, for seasoning
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 onions, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 carrots, sliced
• 3 celery stalks, diced
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 2 bay leaves
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 can (14.9 oz) Guinness beer
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

Start by seasoning the beef cubes generously with salt and pepper. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef in batches, browning on all sides. Once browned, remove the beef and set it aside.

In the same pot, add the remaining olive oil and the diced onions. Sauté until they are softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Incorporate the minced garlic, sautéing for another minute until fragrant.

Next, stir in the sliced carrots and diced celery, cooking for an additional 5 minutes. Mix in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and bay leaves, ensuring everything is well combined.

Return the browned beef to the pot. Pour in the beef broth and the Guinness beer, stirring to combine. Bring the stew to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it cook for 2 to 2.5 hours, or until the beef is tender.

Once cooked, taste the stew and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Extra Tips:

1. For extra depth of flavor, let the stew sit for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator before reheating and serving; the flavors will continue to develop.
2. You can substitute the Guinness with other dark beers, but it may alter the final flavor slightly.
3. Serve with crusty bread or over mashed potatoes for a satisfying meal.

Nutrition Facts:

• Calories: 410 per serving
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fat: 18g
• Fiber: 4g

5 Lamb Irish Stew

Lamb Irish Stew is a hearty, comforting dish that warms the soul. It’s packed with tender lamb, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs, making it a perfect meal for any occasion. Get ready to enjoy a taste of Ireland right in your kitchen!

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs lamb shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 4 cups beef or lamb broth
• 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 3 large carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 onions, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 2 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried rosemary
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 cup chopped parsley (for garnish)

Instructions:

Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once heated, add the lamb cubes and brown them on all sides for about 5-7 minutes. This step not only adds flavor but also locks in the juices.

After the lamb is browned, remove it from the pot and set it aside. In the same pot, add the onions and garlic, sautéing until the onions become translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper, allowing the flavors to meld together for another minute.

Next, return the browned lamb to the pot along with the broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 1 hour. This slow cooking will help tenderize the lamb.

After an hour, add the potatoes and carrots to the pot. Stir everything well and cover again. Continue to simmer for another 30-45 minutes or until both the vegetables and the lamb are tender.

Finally, once cooked, adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve the stew hot, garnished with fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and flavor.

Extra Tips:

1. For a richer flavor, consider adding a cup of red wine while simmering the stew.
2. You can also use stewing beef if lamb is unavailable, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.
3. Always serve with fresh bread to soak up the delicious broth!

Nutrition Facts:

• Calories: 370
• Protein: 30g
• Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Fiber: 5g
• Sugar: 2g

6 Boxty Potato Pancakes

Boxty Potato Pancakes are a delightful Irish treat that showcases the humble potato in a deliciously crispy form. Perfect for breakfast or as a side dish, these pancakes combine grated and mashed potatoes with a touch of flour to achieve a unique texture and flavor. Pair them with sour cream or applesauce for an irresistible finish!

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 2 cups grated raw potatoes
• 1 cup mashed potatoes (prepared and cooled)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup milk
• 2 tbsp melted butter
• Cooking oil for frying

Instructions:

Begin by grating the raw potatoes using a box grater or a food processor. Place the grated potatoes in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out any excess moisture. This step ensures your pancakes are nice and crispy.

In a large bowl, combine the grated potatoes with the mashed potatoes. Add the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together until well combined.

In another bowl, whisk together the egg, milk, and melted butter until the ingredients are well blended. Pour this mixture into the potato mixture and stir until it forms a thick batter. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly okay.

Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add a bit of cooking oil. Once hot, spoon about a quarter cup of the pancake batter into the skillet for each pancake. Flatten them slightly with the back of a spatula. Cook each pancake for about 4-5 minutes on one side until golden brown, then flip and cook for another 4-5 minutes on the other side. Repeat the process until all batter is used up.

Once cooked, place the pancakes on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil. Serve warm with your choice of toppings such as sour cream, chives, or applesauce. Enjoy your delicious Boxty Potato Pancakes!

Extra Tips:

1. For an extra flavor twist, try adding chopped scallions or herbs to the batter.
2. If you prefer a vegan version, replace the egg and milk with a flax egg and plant-based milk.
3. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days and reheat in a skillet when ready to serve.

Nutrition Facts:

• Calories: 200 per pancake
• Total Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Cholesterol: 30mg
• Sodium: 200mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 30g
• Dietary Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 1g
• Protein: 4g

7 Coddle Sausage Surprise

Coddle Sausage Surprise is a comforting and hearty Irish dish that’s perfect for chilly evenings. Packed with flavor and traditionally made with sausages and potatoes, this recipe will surprise you with its depth and richness. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create an unforgettable meal that will warm your soul.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 4 large Irish sausages
• 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 4 slices of bacon, chopped
• 2 cups chicken or vegetable stock
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

Start by preparing the saussages. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the Irish sausages over medium heat until browned on all sides. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once browned, remove them from the pot and set them aside.

In the same pot, add the chopped bacon. Cook it until it’s crispy, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Then, add the onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion becomes translucent.

Next, introduce the diced potatoes to the pot. Stir everything together and allow the flavors to meld for about 2 minutes. Pour in the chicken or vegetable stock, followed by dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Return the browned sausages to the pot, submerging them in the broth and potato mixture. Cover with a lid and let it simmer on low heat for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sausages will cook through while the potatoes soften.

Once done, sprinkle with fresh parsley for garnish. Serve hot and enjoy the warmth and flavors of this delightful dish.

Extra Tips:

1. For a richer flavor, consider using smoked sausages or chorizo instead of regular sausages.
2. Add in other vegetables such as carrots or leeks for more variety and nutrition.
3. This dish can be made ahead of time and reheated, as the flavors develop even more overnight.

Nutrition Facts:

• Calories: 450 per serving
• Protein: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fat: 20g
• Fiber: 5g
• Sodium: 750mg

8 Traditional Irish Fry-Up

A Traditional Irish Fry-Up is a hearty breakfast that showcases the richness of Irish cuisine. It’s packed with a delicious assortment of ingredients, perfect for starting your day with energy. Gathering with family around the table over this delightful feast is truly special.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 4 slices of bacon
• 4 sausages
• 4 eggs
• 2 medium-sized tomatoes, halved
• 4 slices of black pudding (blood sausage)
• 4 slices of white pudding
• 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
• Oil for frying (such as vegetable or olive oil)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Butter (optional, for frying eggs)

Instructions:

Begin by boiling the cubed potatoes in lightly salted water for about 10 minutes or until just tender. Drain the potatoes and set aside.

In a large frying pan over medium heat, add a drizzle of oil. Once hot, add the sausages and bacon. Cook them for about 5-6 minutes until browned and cooked through.

Next, push the sausage and bacon to one side of the pan and add the black and white pudding. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side until browned.

In the same pan, add the pre-cooked potatoes and pan-fry until they are golden and crispy, stirring occasionally. This should take about 4-5 minutes.

While everything is cooking, in a separate small pan, add a little butter (if desired) and crack the eggs. Fry them to your liking—sunny-side up or over easy are classic options.

Finally, add the tomatoes to the pan for the last few minutes of cooking. Just heat them through, letting them soften slightly.

Once all components are cooked, plate everything together. Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve immediately.

Extra Tips:

1. For an even heartier meal, include baked beans or mushrooms in your fry-up.
2. To make it a true Irish experience, serve with soda bread or brown bread on the side.
3. Adjust the ingredients according to your preference; you can swap out puddings or add more vegetables.

Nutrition Facts:

• Calories: Approximately 700 per serving
• Protein: 35g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fat: 45g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Cholesterol: 320mg
• Sodium: 1200mg

9 Creamy Irish Potato Chowder

Creamy Irish Potato Chowder is a delightful dish that warms your heart and satisfies your taste buds. With its rich and creamy texture, every spoonful is a comforting embrace. This chowder is perfect for chilly evenings and can be enjoyed with crusty bread or on its own.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 stalks celery, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 3 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon butter
• Fresh chives, for garnish

Instructions:

Start by melting 1 tablespoon of butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, celery, and carrots, sautéing them until they become tender, which should take about 5 minutes.

Next, stir in the diced potatoes, vegetable broth, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook for about 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.

Once the potatoes are cooked, use a potato masher to partially mash them, creating a creamy texture while leaving some chunks for heartiness. Stir in the heavy cream and mix well. Allow the chowder to simmer for an additional 5 minutes for the flavors to meld together.

Finally, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with fresh chives for an added burst of flavor. Enjoy the warmth of this classic Irish dish!

Extra Tips:

1. For added depth of flavor, consider adding bacon or ham chunks to the chowder during the sautéing process.
2. Substitute half-and-half for a lighter version if you want to reduce calories without sacrificing creaminess.
3. This chowder can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it a great make-ahead option.

Nutrition Facts:

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 6g
• Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Fiber: 5g
• Sugar: 2g

10 Baked Irish Fish Pie

This comforting Baked Irish Fish Pie is a delightful dish that showcases the fresh flavors of the sea combined with creamy mashed potatoes. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this pie is a hearty meal that will warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds.

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Additional Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 2 cups mixed white fish (e.g., cod, haddock), skinless and boneless
• 1 cup smoked salmon, chopped
• 1 cup shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 cups milk
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
• 2 cups mashed potatoes (preferably made ahead)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 cup grated cheese (optional, for topping)

Instructions:

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat and sauté the onion and garlic until they are soft and fragrant. This should take about 5 minutes.

Next, sprinkle the flour over the onion mixture and stir for another minute to cook the flour slightly. Gradually pour in the milk, constantly stirring to prevent lumps from forming. Continue to cook until the sauce has thickened, approximately 5-7 minutes.

Once your sauce is ready, stir in the mixed fish, smoked salmon, shrimp, frozen peas, dill, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow this mixture to simmer gently for about 5 minutes before removing it from the heat.

Transfer the fish mixture into a baking dish. Carefully spread the mashed potatoes over the top, ensuring they cover the filling completely. If desired, sprinkle grated cheese over the mash for an extra cheesy finish.

Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling. When done, remove from the oven and let it sit for 10 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Extra Tips:

1. Feel free to use any combination of seafood available to you; just ensure it’s fresh!
2. To make the dish even richer, you can add a splash of white wine to the sauce while it’s simmering.
3. For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

Nutrition Facts:

• Calories: 540 per serving
• Protein: 36g
• Fat: 24g
• Carbohydrates: 51g
• Fiber: 6g
• Sodium: 600mg