St. Patrick’s Day might not be the first holiday that comes to mind in terms of food, but skeptics everywhere are in for a treat. A foodie’s paradise for all things meat, potatoes, braised, and stewed, Irish cuisine is one rooted in tradition and comfort. So if you have luck on your side and are up to the task of cooking a St. Patrick’s Day feast, we’re sharing some delicious and festive Irish recipes for St. Patrick’s Day.
Irish Soda Bread –
Ideal for breakfast or as a side for soups and stews, Irish Soda Bread is one of the most simple, and tasty dishes you could make. So simple I guarantee you already have all the ingredients in pantry. The key to good soda bread (which is texturally more cake-like) is the buttermilk, which gives the bread a tang that is reminiscent of a sourdough (if you’re into that sort of thing). Regardless, whether you’re looking to slather it with butter and jam or dip it into broth, Irish Soda Bread is a must have for St. Patrick’s Day.
Irish Beef Stew –
Considered Irish because of its origin and secret ingredient (Guinness), Irish Beef Stew is a comfort food classic that’s sure to please, a combination of meat, root vegetables, and beer all braised low and slow. What’s not to like? Not only will your taste buds thank you, but this stew leaves a lasting aroma that is sure to draw crowds. A dark beer like Guinness provides that malty, smoky flavor which is the base of this stew, complimented by the rich velvety texture of the beef and the earthiness of the vegetables. Suited for a rainy day or a famished St. Patrick’s Day crowd, this stew is a staple amongst Irish recipes for St. Patrick’s Day.
Corned Beef Grilled Cheese –
Perhaps my favorite part of this Corned Beef Grilled Cheese sandwich (aside from it’s drool worthy appearance) is that it’s perfect for either lunch or dinner, and has the ability to transform even the most unforgiving of leftovers. Using fresh or deli sliced corned beef elevates this food favorite to something that’s not only hearty, but a unique twist on both a grilled cheese sandwich and the traditional corned beef, a mashup that could only be improved with the addition of beer braised caramelized onions. All of this is sandwiched between two pieces of pumpernickel bread, slightly sweet with rye flavor and sturdy enough to hold up to all that melty goodness.
Potato Pancakes –
Perhaps most famous for their potatoes, Ireland has their own version of the potato pancake which are pillowy on the inside, while remaining crisp and golden on the outside. They can be made with either raw grated potatoes or leftover mashed potatoes, the final product varying only slightly in texture. Ideal as an accompaniment to dinner or served with breakfast, these potato pancakes can be eaten on their own, or, for instance, underneath corned beef hash and poached egg (just an idea).
Car Bomb Cupcakes –
If you’re looking to end the night on a sweet (and boozy) note, try making these Car Bomb Cupcakes, the right kind of punch a holiday like St. Patrick’s Day calls for. A twist on the well known triple threat cocktail, a chocolate Guinness cupcake is filled with a whiskey ganache and then topped with Bailey’s flavored frosting. Now it’s not enough to get you drunk, but it will definitely satisfy that chocolate craving.
About the Author/s
Abby is The Digest's Managing Editor. She spends her time looking at dogs on Instagram and eating her way around Jersey City.