Are you looking for some delicious and comforting Irish recipes to bring to your next potluck gathering? Look no further! Ireland is famous for its hearty stews, tender breads, and rich desserts that are sure to warm hearts and bellies. In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 of the most comforting Irish recipes that are perfect for a potluck party or any occasion when you want to share some love with your friends and family.
From classic dishes like Irish stew and shepherd’s pie to sweet treats like apple cake and whiskey-glazed ham, there’s something on this list for everyone. And the best part? These recipes are easy to make and will surely become new favorites in your household.
In our next article, we’ll be sharing these 20 comforting Irish recipes with you. From savory dishes to sweet treats, we’ve got you covered. Stay tuned!
Classic Irish Stew with Lamb and Root Vegetables
Warm up with a hearty and comforting stew that combines tender lamb, root vegetables, and aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lamb shoulder or neck, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup lamb broth or beef broth
– 1/4 cup Guinness stout (optional)
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 2 teaspoons dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven, brown the lamb pieces in 2 tablespoons of oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chopped onion, carrots, potatoes, garlic, and thyme. Cook until the vegetables are slightly tender.
4. Add the lamb broth, Guinness stout (if using), tomato paste, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven. Simmer for 2-3 hours or until the lamb is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
6. Serve hot with crusty bread or over mashed potatoes.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Creamy Colcannon with Kale and Bacon
A twist on the classic Irish dish, this creamy colcannon recipe adds a burst of flavor from kale and crispy bacon.
Ingredients:
– 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 head of kale, stems removed and leaves chopped
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Boil the diced potatoes until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped kale and cook until wilted, about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cooked potatoes, wilted kale, crumbled bacon, and heavy cream. Mix until smooth and creamy, adding more cream if needed.
4. Serve warm, garnished with additional chopped kale or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Traditional Irish Soda Bread with Raisins
This classic recipe yields a deliciously soft and flavorful soda bread packed with sweet raisins, perfect for accompanying soups, stews, or simply enjoyed on its own.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1/2 cup butter, softened
– 3/4 cup buttermilk
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 cup raisins
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan or a loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and brown sugar.
3. Add softened butter and mix until the dough forms a ball.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk buttermilk and beaten egg.
5. Add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture and stir until just combined.
6. Fold in raisins.
7. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Shepherd’s Pie with Guinness-Glazed Beef
Elevate a classic comfort food with the rich flavors of Guinness stout and tender beef.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Guinness stout
– 1 cup beef broth
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 cups mashed potatoes
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook beef and onion over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with spoon.
3. Add garlic, Guinness, broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer 10 minutes.
5. Meanwhile, prepare mashed potatoes according to package instructions.
6. Transfer beef mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with mashed potatoes and sprinkle with cheddar cheese.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Irish Boxty Potato Pancakes with Sour Cream
Discover a taste of Ireland with these crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside potato pancakes, served with a dollop of creamy sour cream.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and grated
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon butter, melted
– Sour cream, for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine grated potatoes, chopped onion, flour, salt, and baking powder.
2. Beat in the egg until well combined.
3. Stir in the melted butter.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or frying pan over medium heat.
5. Using a 1/4 cup measuring cup, scoop potato mixture into the pan.
6. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
7. Serve hot with a dollop of sour cream.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Dublin Coddle with Sausages and Potatoes
Dublin Coddle with Sausages and Potatoes Recipe
Summary: A hearty Irish dish that combines sausages, potatoes, onions, and cabbage in a rich broth.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 sausages (preferably Irish-style)
– 2 large onions, chopped
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 head of cabbage, shredded
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cups beef broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the chopped onions in butter until softened.
3. Add the sliced potatoes and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Add the shredded cabbage and cooked sausages to the pot. Stir well to combine.
5. Pour in the beef broth, season with salt and pepper to taste, then bring to a simmer.
6. Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and the cabbage is wilted.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Irish Beef and Guinness Pie with Puff Pastry
Experience the rich flavors of Ireland in this hearty beef pie, infused with the bold taste of Guinness stout.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef stew meat
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Guinness stout
– 1 cup beef broth
– 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 package puff pastry, thawed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook beef, onion, and garlic until browned.
3. Add Guinness, broth, flour, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil; simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
5. Spoon the beef mixture into the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
6. Brush the edges with a little water and fold the pastry over the filling, pressing gently to seal.
7. Place pie on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Barmbrack (Irish Fruit Bread) with Tea Soaked Fruit
Barmbrack, a classic Irish fruit bread, is a staple of autumn and winter celebrations. This recipe combines the sweetness of dried fruits with the warmth of tea, creating a moist and flavorful loaf that’s perfect for sharing with friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed dried fruits (cranberries, raisins, currants)
– 1/2 cup strong brewed tea
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon milk
Instructions:
1. Soak the dried fruits in tea for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
3. In a large bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt.
4. Add soaked fruits, brown sugar, butter, egg, and milk to the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
5. Pour the mixture into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
6. Bake for 2 1/2 hours or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Remove from oven and let cool on a wire rack before slicing.
Cooking Time: 2 1/2 hours
Irish Seafood Chowder with Smoked Salmon
Irish Seafood Chowder with Smoked Salmon Recipe
Summary: This hearty and flavorful chowder combines the richness of smoked salmon with a variety of seafood, potatoes, and cream for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound smoked salmon, flaked
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed seafood (shrimp, scallops, cod), cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add seafood and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until lightly browned.
4. Add potatoes, flour, and heavy cream. Stir to combine.
5. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.
6. Stir in smoked salmon and parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Corned Beef and Cabbage with Mustard Glaze
Corned Beef and Cabbage with Mustard Glaze Recipe
Summary:
This classic St. Patrick’s Day dish gets a flavorful boost from a tangy mustard glaze, making it perfect for your next special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 3 lbs corned beef brisket
– 1 head of cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– 1 tsp ground black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Place the corned beef in a large Dutch oven or braising pan, fat side up.
3. Add the sliced cabbage, butter, mustard, brown sugar, and vinegar to the pan.
4. Season with black pepper and cover the pan with aluminum foil.
5. Braise for 3-1/2 hours, or until the corned beef is tender.
6. Remove the foil and continue braising for an additional 30 minutes.
7. Glaze the corned beef with the pan juices and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 4 hours
Cheesy Irish Potato Bake with Leeks
A hearty, comforting casserole perfect for a St. Patrick’s Day gathering or any cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, thinly sliced
– 2 medium leeks, white and light green parts only, thinly sliced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced potatoes and leeks.
3. In a separate bowl, mix grated cheese, heavy cream, and melted butter.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the potato-leek mixture; toss until potatoes are well coated.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until potatoes are tender and top is golden brown.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Irish Apple Cake with Cinnamon Custard
Irish Apple Cake with Cinnamon Custard Recipe
This moist and flavorful Irish apple cake is infused with the warmth of cinnamon and topped with a creamy custard, making it a perfect dessert for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 cup diced apples (Granny Smith or other firm variety)
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Cinnamon Custard (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add melted butter, egg, and diced apples to the dry ingredients; stir until just combined.
4. Pour batter into prepared baking dish.
5. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.
Cinnamon Custard:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1. In a small saucepan, combine cream, sugar, and cinnamon.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until custard thickens (about 5 minutes).
3. Remove from heat; let cool slightly.
Assembly:
1. Allow cake to cool in pan for 10 minutes.
2. Top with warm Cinnamon Custard.
Black Pudding and Apple Stuffing Balls
A savory twist on traditional stuffing balls, these bite-sized treats combine the rich flavor of black pudding with the sweetness of apples.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked black pudding, crumbled
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated apple
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine crumbled black pudding, breadcrumbs, grated apple, and chopped onion.
3. In a separate bowl, beat the egg until well mixed.
4. Add the egg mixture to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Shape into small balls, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter.
6. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Irish Whiskey-Glazed Ham with Cloves
Elevate your holiday table with this sweet and savory Irish whiskey-glazed ham, infused with the warm, aromatic flavor of cloves.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) bone-in ham
– 1/2 cup Irish whiskey
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a small saucepan, combine whiskey, honey, brown sugar, mustard, and cloves. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Place the ham in a roasting pan, cut side up if it’s a spiral-cut ham. Score the fat layer on the surface of the ham, being careful not to cut too deeply.
4. Brush the whiskey glaze all over the ham, making sure to coat it evenly.
5. Cover the roasting pan with aluminum foil and bake for 2 hours.
6. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes, or until the glaze is caramelized and the ham is heated through.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2 1/2 hours
Homemade Irish Brown Bread with Oats
This classic Irish bread recipe combines the warmth of brown sugar, the comfort of rolled oats, and the simplicity of homemade baking. Perfect for a cozy afternoon treat or as a accompaniment to your favorite soups or stews.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 1 cup warm water (105°F to 115°F)
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, oats, brown sugar, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, proof the yeast by mixing it with the warm water. Let sit for 5-7 minutes until frothy.
3. Add the yeast mixture to the dry ingredients and stir until a sticky dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10-12 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down the dough and shape into a round loaf.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Buttered Parsley Potatoes with Sea Salt
Elevate your potato game with this simple yet flavorful recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch wedges
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 teaspoon flaky sea salt
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place the potato wedges on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Dot each potato wedge with softened butter, making sure they’re evenly coated.
5. Sprinkle chopped parsley and flaky sea salt over the potatoes.
6. Season with salt to taste.
7. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Irish Coffee Chocolate Truffles
Rich and decadent, these truffles combine the warmth of Irish coffee with the indulgence of chocolate. Perfect for a special treat or gift.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons instant coffee powder
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together heavy cream, coffee powder, and vanilla extract until smooth.
2. In a separate bowl, mix confectioners’ sugar and softened butter until well combined.
3. Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval.
4. Fold the whipped cream mixture into the melted chocolate until fully incorporated.
5. If using nuts, fold them into the chocolate mixture.
6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow truffles to firm up.
7. Roll into balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: None, as this recipe does not require cooking.
Slow-Cooked Irish Lamb Shanks with Red Wine Gravy
Savor the rich flavors of Ireland with this hearty slow-cooked lamb shank dish, perfectly paired with a bold red wine gravy.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 lamb shanks
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot work well)
– 1 cup beef broth
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season lamb shanks with salt and pepper.
3. In a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot, brown the lamb shanks in batches over medium-high heat, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Remove lamb from pot; set aside.
5. Add chopped onion to pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
6. Add garlic, red wine, beef broth, tomato paste, carrots, celery, and thyme to pot. Stir to combine.
7. Return lamb shanks to pot, cover with a lid or foil, and transfer to preheated oven.
8. Cook for 2-1/2 hours or until tender, then serve with red wine gravy spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2-1/2 hours
Irish Cheddar and Stout Rarebit
This recipe combines the sharpness of Irish cheddar with the deep flavor of stout beer, creating a rich and creamy sauce perfect for topping toasted bread. It’s an ideal comfort food for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup Irish cheddar cheese, grated
– 1/2 cup stout beer (such as Guinness)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
3. Whisk in flour to create a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking until smooth.
5. Remove from heat and stir in Irish cheddar and stout beer until well combined.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Toast bread slices until lightly browned.
8. Spoon rarebit sauce over toasted bread and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Irish Mocha Baileys Poke Cake
Escape to a world of creamy coffee and rich chocolate with this decadent Irish Mocha Baileys Poke Cake. Perfect for St. Patrick’s Day or any special occasion, this moist and flavorful dessert is sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of devil’s food cake mix
– 1 cup of strong brewed coffee
– 2 tablespoons of Baileys Irish Cream liqueur
– 1/4 cup of unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup of milk chocolate chips
– 1 cup of whipped cream
– Freshly grated nutmeg for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Bake the cake according to package instructions.
2. Poke holes all over the top of the cooled cake using a skewer or fork.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together coffee and Baileys until well combined.
4. Pour the coffee-Baileys mixture evenly over the cake, making sure it seeps into the holes.
5. Melt the chocolate chips in the microwave (30-second intervals, stirring between each interval).
6. Spread the melted chocolate over the top of the cake.
7. Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of nutmeg.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes (cake) + 10-15 minutes (assembling)
Summary
Get ready to warm up with these 20 comforting Irish recipes perfect for potluck gatherings! From hearty stews and breads to decadent desserts and savory dishes, there’s something for everyone. Classics like Irish Stew with Lamb and Root Vegetables, Shepherd’s Pie with Guinness- Glazed Beef, and Traditional Irish Soda Bread with Raisins are joined by modern twists like Irish Whiskey-Glazed Ham with Cloves and Cheesy Irish Potato Bake with Leeks. Whether you’re a foodie or just looking for some new ideas to bring to the next potluck, these recipes are sure to please.