When most people think of St. Patrick’s Day, their minds go straight to shamrocks, green beer, and rowdy parades. But let’s not forget the best part of any Irish celebration—the food! Traditional Irish cuisine is all about hearty, comforting dishes that warm you from the inside out.
Think slow-cooked stews, buttery breads, crispy potatoes, and rich desserts that’ll make you feel like you’re dining in a cozy Dublin pub.
So whether you’re throwing a full-blown Irish feast or just looking to add a little Celtic charm to your table, these 35 traditional Irish dishes are a delicious way to celebrate.
1. Irish Stew
If there were a king of Irish comfort food, Irish Stew would wear the crown. This dish has been warming bellies for centuries, and for good reason. It’s simple, hearty, and deeply satisfying—the kind of meal that makes you want to wrap yourself in a blanket and watch the rain fall outside.
At its core, Irish stew is all about slow-cooked meat and vegetables. Traditionally, lamb or mutton was used (since sheep were more common than cattle in Ireland), but beef works just as well.
The magic happens when you let everything simmer for hours, allowing the flavors to meld into a rich, brothy perfection. The potatoes break down slightly, thickening the stew, while the carrots and onions add a natural sweetness.
2. Shepherd’s Pie
Few things are as soul-satisfying as a bubbling hot Shepherd’s Pie, fresh out of the oven. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug from your grandmother, full of love, tradition, and, of course, buttery mashed potatoes.
At its heart, Shepherd’s Pie is a layer of savory, seasoned ground lamb (or beef, if you’re making Cottage Pie), cooked with onions, peas, carrots, and a thick, rich gravy. But the real star? The mashed potato topping. It’s creamy, buttery, and spread thick—sometimes even piped on for extra fanciness.
Once baked, the top layer gets golden and slightly crispy, while the inside remains lusciously smooth and rich. Some folks even add a sprinkle of cheese on top for a melty, irresistible finish. One bite, and you’ll understand why this dish has been a staple in Irish homes for generations.
3. Corned Beef and Cabbage
No St. Patrick’s Day feast is complete without corned beef and cabbage. This dish is so iconic that it practically wears a leprechaun hat and does an Irish jig on the dinner table.
Despite its strong association with Ireland, corned beef and cabbage is actually more of an Irish-American tradition. In Ireland, boiled bacon and cabbage was more common, but when Irish immigrants came to the U.S., beef was cheaper and more accessible than pork, leading to this delicious twist.
The key to perfect corned beef is slow cooking. The brined, salty beef simmers for hours, transforming into fall-apart tender, juicy perfection. Cabbage, carrots, and potatoes are added toward the end, soaking up all that rich, salty broth.
4. Guinness Beef Stew
If you love hearty stews and bold flavors, this one’s for you. Guinness Beef Stew takes everything great about a classic Irish stew and cranks it up a notch with the deep, malty richness of Guinness stout.
The secret ingredient here is, of course, the beer. Guinness isn’t just for drinking—it’s an incredible flavor enhancer. When added to a slow-cooked stew, it brings a deep, slightly bitter, caramelized richness that makes the broth irresistibly complex.
The alcohol cooks off, but the flavor remains, blending beautifully with the tender chunks of beef, onions, carrots, and potatoes.
Pair this with thick slices of Irish brown bread to mop up every last drop of that rich, glossy gravy. And, of course, enjoy it with a pint of Guinness on the side for the full experience.
5. Dublin Coddle
What do you do when you have leftover sausages, bacon, and potatoes? You throw them all into a pot, let them simmer, and call it Dublin Coddle! This rustic, no-fuss dish was originally made by Dublin’s working-class families as an easy way to use up leftovers. But don’t be fooled—it’s absolutely delicious.
The beauty of Dublin Coddle is in its simplicity. Everything is layered in a pot—thick slices of pork sausages, crispy bacon, soft onions, and potatoes—then slow-cooked in broth until meltingly tender.
The flavors blend together in the most magical, smoky, savory way, with the sausages soaking up all the rich broth.
This dish is traditionally eaten late at night, often after a few too many pints. Whether you make it for dinner or as a hangover cure, one thing’s for sure—it’ll fill you up and warm your soul.
6. Boxty (Irish Potato Pancakes)
If a hash brown and a pancake had a love child, it would be boxty. This crispy-on-the-outside, soft-on-the-inside Irish potato pancake is proof that potatoes are the greatest gift to mankind.
Boxty is made with a mix of grated raw potatoes, mashed potatoes, flour, baking soda, and buttermilk, then pan-fried in butter until it’s golden brown and crispy. The name comes from the Irish phrase arán bocht tí, meaning “poor-house bread,” because it was a cheap and filling dish eaten by rural Irish families.
But don’t let its humble beginnings fool you—boxty is heavenly. It can be eaten plain, topped with butter, or stuffed with smoked salmon, cheese, and herbs. Some Irish pubs even serve it in wrap form, stuffed with savory fillings like a burrito.
However you eat it, one thing’s for sure—boxty deserves a spot at your St. Patrick’s Day table.
7. Colcannon
Think mashed potatoes couldn’t possibly get better? Colcannon begs to differ. This ultra-creamy, buttery, and slightly earthy dish is basically mashed potatoes on steroids—and it’s an absolute must-try.
The key to perfect colcannon is mixing mashed potatoes with chopped kale or cabbage, plus an obscene amount of butter.
In fact, a traditional Irish superstition says you should make a small well in the middle of your colcannon, pour melted butter into it, and dip each bite into the butter pool. (Honestly, sounds like the best superstition ever.)
Colcannon isn’t just a side dish—it’s part of Irish folklore. In the past, people would hide small charms in the colcannon, like a coin for wealth or a ring for marriage. Whether you’re feeling superstitious or just really hungry, colcannon is a delicious way to celebrate St. Paddy’s Day.
8. Bangers and Mash
Sausages and mashed potatoes may sound simple, but trust me—bangers and mash is a revelation.
Let’s break it down: “Bangers” are Irish-style pork sausages, which got their name because they used to sizzle and “bang” in the pan while cooking. They’re juicy, flavorful, and slightly peppery, with a satisfying snap when you cut into them.
Paired with creamy mashed potatoes and rich onion gravy, they create a perfect storm of flavor and comfort.
This dish is pub food at its finest—the kind of meal that pairs beautifully with a pint of ale and good company. If you want to level up your St. Patrick’s Day feast, this dish is a must.
9. Steak and Guinness Pie
If you love flaky pastry and rich beef stew, allow me to introduce you to your new favorite meal. Steak and Guinness Pie is a meat lover’s dream, combining slow-cooked tender beef, onions, and mushrooms in a thick, Guinness-infused gravy, all wrapped in buttery, golden-brown pastry.
The Guinness doesn’t just add flavor—it gives the stew a deep, malty richness that makes each bite incredibly satisfying. The beef is fall-apart tender, the gravy is thick and glossy, and the pastry adds the perfect crispy contrast.
You can make it as one big pie or individual pot pies for extra charm. Either way, serve it piping hot with a side of mashed potatoes or peas, and you’ll have a meal that’s worthy of an Irish pub.
10. Fish and Chips
If you’ve ever been to Ireland (or the UK), you know that fish and chips is basically a religion. This dish is simple but legendary—crispy beer-battered fish paired with thick-cut fries, all served in paper wrapping for that authentic touch.
The fish—usually cod or haddock—is coated in a light, crispy batter, made extra crunchy and golden thanks to a splash of Irish beer. It’s fried to perfection, with a crackling exterior that gives way to flaky, tender fish inside.
The “chips” (a.k.a. fries) are chunky, slightly crisp, and served with plenty of salt and vinegar. Want to go full Irish? Add a side of mushy peas—they may sound weird, but they’re the ultimate pairing with fish and chips.
Grab a pint, douse your fish in malt vinegar, and enjoy this crispy, golden masterpiece.
11. Irish Soda Bread
Irish Soda Bread is so simple, yet so delicious. This rustic, dense, slightly tangy bread is yeast-free, relying on baking soda and buttermilk for its rise.
The result? A craggy, golden-brown loaf with a tender inside and a crispy crust. Traditional Irish soda bread is only made with four ingredients—flour, baking soda, salt, and buttermilk—but modern versions often add raisins, nuts, or even a touch of honey for sweetness.
The best way to eat it? Slathered in butter, served alongside soup or stew, or topped with Irish cheddar and smoked salmon. It’s the kind of bread that makes everything taste better, and the best part? It comes together in under an hour!
12. Brown Bread
While soda bread gets all the love, Irish brown bread deserves just as much attention. This whole wheat, nutty, slightly sweet bread is a staple in Irish households and pubs. It has a dense, hearty texture that makes it perfect for dunking into stews or slathering with butter.
Unlike its white soda bread cousin, brown bread is made with wholemeal flour, giving it an earthy, rich flavor. Some recipes even include a touch of molasses or honey for extra depth.
Pair it with a bowl of Irish stew or use it as a base for an open-faced smoked salmon sandwich, and you’ll understand why this bread is beloved across Ireland.
13. Potato Farls
Let’s be honest—potatoes make everything better. And in Ireland, they’re not just a side dish, they’re the main event. Enter potato farls, a soft, buttery, pan-fried potato bread that’s an essential part of an Irish breakfast.
A farl (which means “quarter” in old Irish) is made by mixing mashed potatoes, flour, butter, and salt into a dough, which is then rolled out, cut into four triangular pieces, and cooked on a griddle until golden brown. The result? Crispy edges, a soft, pillowy center, and an irresistible, buttery flavor.
The best way to enjoy potato farls? Slather them in more butter, dip them into runny egg yolks, or pair them with bacon and sausage for a proper Irish breakfast. Honestly, they’re so good, you’ll want to eat them morning, noon, and night.
14. Champ
If you love mashed potatoes but feel like they could use a little extra magic, meet champ—Ireland’s answer to ultra-creamy, extra-flavorful mashed potatoes.
What makes champ different? Scallions (or green onions) are finely chopped and mixed into the hot mashed potatoes, adding a fresh, mild oniony kick. And just when you think mashed potatoes couldn’t get better, there’s a well of melted butter in the center, because why not make life more delicious?
Champ is so beloved in Ireland that it even has its own folk traditions. Some say that leaving a spoonful on your plate for the fairies brings good luck (and really, who doesn’t want fairy-approved mashed potatoes?).
Whether you believe the myth or not, one thing’s for sure—a steaming bowl of champ is pure comfort food.
15. Bubble and Squeak
With a name like Bubble and Squeak, you know this dish has to be good. This crispy, golden, pan-fried dish is a genius way to use up leftovers, and it’s so delicious, you might start making extra mashed potatoes just to have an excuse to cook it.
Originally an Irish and British peasant dish, Bubble and Squeak is made by taking leftover mashed potatoes and cabbage (or any greens), mixing them together, forming them into patties, and frying them in butter until crispy and golden.
The name comes from the funny bubbling and squeaking sounds the cabbage makes while frying.
16. Griddle Cakes
If you’ve never had an Irish griddle cake, imagine a cross between a biscuit and a scone, but softer, fluffier, and best eaten warm with butter and jam.
Griddle cakes were traditionally cooked over an open fire on a cast iron griddle, making them a quick and easy way to whip up bread without an oven. They’re made with flour, butter, baking soda, and buttermilk, creating a simple, slightly tangy bread that’s crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
Best served fresh off the griddle, slathered in butter, drizzled with honey, or alongside a hearty breakfast, these little cakes are proof that sometimes the simplest foods are the best.
17. Smoked Salmon on Brown Bread
Ireland is known for its pristine waters, which means it also produces some of the best smoked salmon in the world. Pair that with rich, nutty Irish brown bread, and you’ve got a dish that’s simple, elegant, and absolutely delicious.
Irish smoked salmon is delicately cured and thinly sliced, with a buttery texture that melts in your mouth. It’s typically served on slices of dense, wholemeal brown bread, topped with a little butter, fresh lemon juice, and sometimes capers or red onion.
It’s the perfect light yet luxurious dish—great for a fancy brunch or even as an appetizer before a big St. Patrick’s Day feast.
18. Mushy Peas
Mushy peas might not sound glamorous, but trust me—they’re an Irish pub food staple for a reason. These soft, buttery, slightly minty peas are the perfect companion to fish and chips, meat pies, or even a full Irish breakfast.
Made by boiling marrowfat peas (a special type of dried pea) until soft, they’re then mashed and seasoned with butter, salt, and sometimes a little mint. The texture is like a chunky pea puree, and the flavor is comforting, slightly sweet, and surprisingly addictive.
If you’ve never tried mushy peas before, give them a shot—they might just become your new favorite side dish.
19. Yorkshire Pudding
Yorkshire Pudding may have British origins, but it’s just as beloved in Irish households. And no—it’s not actually a pudding! This golden, puffy, crispy-on-the-outside, airy-on-the-inside delight is basically like a savory popover, perfect for soaking up rich, meaty gravies.
Made from a simple batter of eggs, flour, and milk, Yorkshire puddings puff up dramatically in the oven, forming a crispy, hollow shell that’s perfect for filling with stews, gravies, or even sausages (cue the classic dish, Toad in the Hole).
It’s the perfect side dish for roasts, stews, and holiday feasts, and once you try one fresh out of the oven, you’ll understand why people go crazy for them.
20. Dulse (Seaweed)
Dulse is one of Ireland’s oldest snacks, and it’s also one of the most unique. It’s a red seaweed that’s been harvested along the Irish coast for centuries, eaten both as a snack and used in soups and stews.
While the idea of eating dried seaweed might sound odd, dulse is actually incredibly delicious—it has a slightly salty, umami-rich flavor, almost like bacon! Some people eat it straight out of the bag, while others fry it up to make it even crispier and smokier.
Not only is dulse packed with vitamins and minerals, but it’s also a favorite snack for hikers and sailors because it’s lightweight, nutritious, and lasts forever. So if you’re looking for an authentic Irish snack with a history dating back to the Vikings, give dulse a try!
21. Leek and Potato Soup
If you’re looking for a warm, comforting bowl of goodness, leek and potato soup is where it’s at. This simple yet incredibly flavorful soup is made with buttery leeks, creamy potatoes, and a hint of garlic, all blended together into a silky-smooth bowl of heaven.
What makes this soup so special is the leeks. They have a mild oniony sweetness that pairs beautifully with the rich, velvety potatoes. A splash of cream makes it extra luxurious, but even without it, the texture is dreamy and comforting.
Serve it with a thick slice of Irish soda bread, and you’ve got the perfect start to any St. Patrick’s Day meal. And if you want to go all out, top it with crispy bacon bits or a sprinkle of fresh chives. Trust me, one spoonful, and you’ll be hooked.
22. Irish Seafood Chowder
Ireland is an island nation, which means fresh seafood is a big part of its cuisine. And nothing showcases the best of Irish seafood quite like a bowl of creamy, rich seafood chowder.
This chowder is packed with fresh fish like salmon, cod, and haddock, along with plump shrimp, mussels, and sometimes even crab. The broth is thick, creamy, and slightly briny, with a base of buttery leeks, celery, and potatoes. A touch of white wine and a splash of cream take it to the next level.
Served with a warm hunk of brown bread, this dish feels like a cozy, seaside escape in a bowl. Whether you’re near the ocean or landlocked, a spoonful of this will transport you straight to the Irish coast.
23. Carrot and Parsnip Soup
Carrots and parsnips might not sound exciting, but trust me—this soup is pure gold. It’s smooth, naturally sweet, and lightly spiced, making it a perfectly cozy dish for a chilly day.
The parsnips add a nutty, slightly peppery depth, while the carrots bring in a natural sweetness. Simmered with onions, garlic, and a little broth, then blended until creamy, this soup is simple yet unbelievably delicious. A sprinkle of nutmeg or cinnamon gives it that extra something special.
24. Black Pudding (Blood Sausage)
Okay, let’s address the elephant in the room—black pudding is made with blood. But before you run for the hills, hear me out! This rich, flavorful sausage is a beloved part of a traditional Irish breakfast, and once you try it, you’ll understand why.
Made with pork blood, oatmeal, and spices, black pudding has a deep, slightly peppery flavor and a crispy, crumbly texture when fried. It pairs beautifully with eggs, toast, and baked beans, creating a seriously satisfying breakfast.
Still skeptical? Give it a try with a bite of buttered soda bread—it might just surprise you!
25. White Pudding
If black pudding sounds a little intense, white pudding might be more your style. It’s similar in texture but made without blood, using just pork, oatmeal, and spices. The result? A rich, slightly peppery sausage that’s crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and full of savory goodness.
White pudding is an essential part of a full Irish breakfast, but it’s also great on sandwiches, in stews, or even crumbled over mashed potatoes.
It’s comfort food at its finest, and once you try it, you’ll see why it has stood the test of time.
26. Cabbage and Bacon Soup
Cabbage and bacon might not sound glamorous, but together, they make one seriously tasty soup. This dish is a nod to old-school Irish cooking, where simple ingredients were turned into something magical.
Thick chunks of smoky Irish bacon are slow-cooked with soft, buttery cabbage, potatoes, and onions, creating a rich, flavorful broth. The result is a warm, nourishing soup that’s both light and satisfying—perfect for when you want something cozy but not too heavy.
Bonus: It’s a great way to sneak in some greens while still feeling like you’re indulging in comfort food.
27. Boiled Bacon and Cabbage
Before corned beef and cabbage became the go-to St. Patrick’s Day meal, the Irish were all about boiled bacon and cabbage. This simple, rustic dish was a Sunday dinner staple for generations.
The bacon isn’t the kind you’d put on a burger—it’s a big, juicy, slow-cooked piece of pork, often brined for extra flavor. It’s boiled until fall-apart tender, then served alongside buttery cabbage and potatoes.
It’s salty, smoky, buttery, and ridiculously comforting. Top it with mustard sauce or parsley sauce, and you’ve got a true taste of Ireland.
28. Irish Apple Cake
Imagine a cake that’s buttery, lightly spiced, and packed with juicy apples—that’s Irish apple cake.
This old-fashioned dessert is moist, slightly crumbly, and bursting with cinnamon and nutmeg. Traditionally served with a drizzle of warm custard sauce, it’s the kind of cake that tastes like home.
Perfect with a cup of strong Irish tea, this cake is simple, rustic, and utterly delicious. It’s the ultimate comfort dessert, and once you try it, you’ll see why it’s been around for generations.
29. Barmbrack
Barmbrack is more than just a sweet, fruit-studded bread—it’s an Irish Halloween tradition.
This slightly spiced, raisin-filled loaf is similar to tea bread, and it’s usually soaked in strong black tea before baking, giving it incredible depth of flavor. But here’s where things get interesting—a ring, a coin, or a piece of cloth is hidden inside the loaf, and whoever gets the slice with the ring is said to be next to marry!
Even if you’re not looking for a fortune-telling dessert, Barmbrack is a delicious treat, best served warm with butter and a strong cup of tea.
30. Guinness Chocolate Cake
If you think Guinness is only for drinking, you’re in for a sweet surprise. Guinness chocolate cake is a rich, moist, ultra-decadent dessert with a deep malty flavor that pairs beautifully with dark chocolate.
The magic happens when you mix Guinness stout into the batter. The beer enhances the chocolate, making it extra intense and fudgy, while also keeping the cake super moist. The final touch? A thick, creamy layer of Baileys-infused frosting, resembling the foamy head of a freshly poured pint.
This cake is not too sweet, slightly bitter, and irresistibly indulgent—perfect for celebrating St. Patrick’s Day (or any day, really). Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or an extra pint of Guinness on the side for the full experience.
31. Carrageen Moss Pudding
Okay, stick with me on this one—Carrageen Moss Pudding is a traditional Irish seaweed pudding that sounds a little unusual but is light, refreshing, and delicious.
Carrageen moss is a red seaweed found along the Irish coast that’s been used for centuries as a natural thickener (it’s even the original version of gelatin!). When soaked and boiled with milk, sugar, and vanilla, it turns into a delicate, jelly-like pudding with a texture similar to panna cotta.
It’s naturally dairy-free, slightly sweet with a subtle oceanic note, and often served with fresh berries and cream. If you want to impress your guests with an authentic Irish dessert that dates back to ancient times, this is it!
32. Irish Whiskey Truffles
Nothing says Irish luxury like whiskey-infused chocolate truffles. These rich, silky-smooth chocolate bites are spiked with a splash of Irish whiskey, making them the perfect adult-friendly treat for St. Patrick’s Day.
Made with dark chocolate, heavy cream, butter, and a generous pour of whiskey, these truffles melt in your mouth with an irresistible combination of sweet and boozy goodness.
Roll them in cocoa powder, crushed nuts, or even shredded coconut, and you’ve got a fancy yet easy-to-make dessert that’s as elegant as it is delicious.
Best served with a glass of Irish coffee or straight whiskey—because why not go all in?
33. Baileys Cheesecake
If you love cheesecake (and let’s be honest, who doesn’t?), you’ll go crazy for Baileys cheesecake. This creamy, luscious dessert is infused with Baileys Irish Cream, giving it a silky-smooth texture and a rich, coffee-kissed flavor.
The crust? A buttery, crumbly layer of crushed biscuits (or chocolate cookies for extra indulgence). The filling? A creamy dream of cream cheese, sugar, eggs, and a hefty pour of Baileys. Some versions even swirl in melted chocolate or espresso for a double hit of deliciousness.
Top it with whipped cream and a drizzle of chocolate syrup, and you’ve got a dessert that’s equal parts elegant and indulgent—perfect for impressing your St. Paddy’s Day guests.
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