For many, St. Patrick’s Day makes them think of tiny leprechauns and a free excuse to pinch their friends. But for me, it fills my mind with thoughts of traditions, family, and most importantly, food. Food is what truly sets the tone of the holiday. As soon as I smell the sweet aroma of Irish soda bread waft through the house, I know what time of year it is.
Typically, Irish soda bread is served as a part of a meal, similar to any other bread. Irish soda bread is made with raisins, eggs, buttermilk, sugar, salt, flour, and as the name implies, baking soda. However, Irish soda bread also can be eaten as a dessert. Instead of using raisins, many typically replace it with chocolate and up the amount of sugar used to make the bread sweeter. This sweeter rendition of the bread is typically what is served during the holidays. Although this dish is traditional and renowned in Ireland, its origins are not far off, and it originates from the 1800s.
Another Irish delicacy is cabbage and potatoes. This meal is a staple in any Irish household and can sometimes even be served with Irish soda bread, creating a trifecta of sorts. The dish can take on many forms, but its more traditional form, colcannon, definitely takes the cake. Colcannon is basically a mixture of creamy mash potatoes and greens, typically either cabbage or kale. On top of this mixture is a pool of melted butter, but there are many different renditions of the dish that substitute the butter with various dips. This hearty meal is served year round but especially during Halloween where a thimble or small prize is hidden inside. Overall, it’s a tasty treat that should not be missed given the chance.
While there are many more traditional Irish meals and dishes to be had, these two are the most common and flavorful. Both dishes offer something not only year round but also for the holidays. Regardless of the time of year though, it’s always a celebration when you’re chowing down on these delicious dishes.