Gastronomy in Ireland

A tough and battle-scarred history gave little room for development of Irish gastronomy and traditional fare is hearty and simple with ingredients available locally. It has evolved though in recent years and now combines the best of local produce with some international influences. Numerous restaurants and pubs have sprung up.

Traditional menus feature Irish Stew, tender local lamb with potatoes, carrots and onions and Champ, creamy mashed potatoes flecked with green scallions. Potato Cakes are also a popular national dish. The potato patties are made with potato, flour and some onion, simply pan fried or on the griddle. Bacon and cabbage is also a popular dish. Ireland is famous for its local produce and organic fruit and vegetables, handcrafted cheese and freshly caught seafood are part of the delights as are freshly baked cakes and breads.

Ireland is famed for Guinness but that’s not all it has to offer in the beverage department. Other great stouts and beers like Murphy’s Irish Stout, Beamish, and Kilkenny beer are also available. Irish whiskey is distilled three times, unlike Scotch, which is only distilled twice and a treat for whisky drinkers.