St. Patrick’s Day is a time of celebration, filled with the vibrant spirit of Ireland. One of the most exciting aspects of this holiday is the delicious food that accompanies the festivities. In this article, we’ll explore some mouth - watering St. Patrick’s Day side dishes that are sure to make your dinner unforgettable.
Let's start with the classic shepherd’s pie. This dish is a staple of Irish cuisine and is loved by people all over the world. The base of the shepherd’s pie is a layer of minced meat, typically lamb or beef, cooked with onions, carrots, and peas in a rich gravy. The meat mixture is then topped with a thick layer of mashed potatoes and baked until the potatoes are golden brown and crispy on top. The combination of the savory meat and the creamy potatoes is simply divine.
To make a perfect shepherd’s pie, first, heat some oil in a large pan. Add chopped onions and cook until they are translucent. Then, add minced meat and cook until it is browned. Next, add chopped carrots and peas, along with some tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and beef or lamb stock. Let the mixture simmer for about 20 minutes until the vegetables are tender and the sauce has thickened. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of thyme.
While the meat mixture is cooking, boil some potatoes until they are soft. Drain the potatoes and mash them with butter, milk, and a little bit of salt. Once the meat mixture is ready, transfer it to a baking dish. Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the meat, using a fork to create a decorative pattern on top. Bake the shepherd’s pie in a pre - heated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 30 minutes or until the potatoes are golden brown.
Another must - have side dish for St. Patrick’s Day is corned beef and cabbage. Corned beef is a cured beef brisket that is typically boiled with vegetables such as cabbage, carrots, onions, and potatoes. The result is a hearty and flavorful dish that is perfect for a cold St. Patrick’s Day evening.
To prepare corned beef and cabbage, start by placing the corned beef in a large pot. Cover the beef with water and add the seasoning packet that usually comes with the corned beef. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 2 - 3 hours, depending on the size of the beef. About 45 minutes before the beef is done, add the peeled and quartered potatoes, carrots, and onions to the pot. Finally, add the shredded cabbage and cook for another 15 - 20 minutes until the cabbage is tender.
Irish soda bread is also a great addition to your St. Patrick’s Day menu. This bread is made with flour, baking soda, buttermilk, and salt. It has a dense and slightly crumbly texture and is often served with butter or jam. The simplicity of the ingredients makes it easy to make at home.
To make Irish soda bread, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a large bowl, combine flour, baking soda, and salt. Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the buttermilk. Stir the ingredients together until a dough forms. Knead the dough gently on a floured surface for a few minutes. Shape the dough into a round loaf and place it on a baking sheet. Use a sharp knife to make a cross on the top of the loaf. Bake the bread for about 30 - 35 minutes or until it sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
These St. Patrick’s Day side dishes are not only delicious but also carry the rich cultural heritage of Ireland. Whether you are hosting a big party or having a quiet dinner with your family, these recipes will surely add a touch of Irish charm to your St. Patrick’s Day celebration. So, roll up your sleeves, head to the kitchen, and start cooking up a storm with these amazing recipes!