As the saying goes, “you can’t go wrong with a little bit of luck!” And when it comes to cooking, there’s no better way to warm up than with a hearty and comforting Irish vegetarian dish. From classic colcannon to innovative twists on traditional recipes, Ireland has long been known for its rich culinary heritage. With St. Patrick’s Day just around the corner, we’ve gathered 18 of the most mouthwatering Irish vegetarian recipes that are sure to become new favorites.
Colcannon with Kale and Leeks
This Irish-inspired dish combines the creamy comfort of colcannon (mashed potatoes with kale) with the sweet, earthy flavor of sautéed leeks. A perfect side dish for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and discarded, leaves chopped
– 2 medium leeks, white and light green parts only, chopped
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Boil potatoes until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and mash with a fork.
2. In a large skillet, sauté chopped leeks in butter over medium heat until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add chopped kale to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Combine mashed potatoes, cooked kale mixture, and salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Vegetable Irish Stew with Barley
Warm up on a chilly day with this comforting stew, packed with tender vegetables and nutty barley. This recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms)
– 1 cup pearl barley
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the carrots, potatoes, mixed vegetables, barley, broth, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer, covered, for 30-40 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Irish Soda Bread with Seeds and Herbs
This recipe combines the traditional Irish soda bread with the added flavors of sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, and fresh herbs. The result is a moist and aromatic loaf that’s perfect for snacking or serving as a side to your favorite soups and stews.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
– 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds
– 3 tablespoons chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley, rosemary, and thyme)
– 1 cup buttermilk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, baking soda, salt, and brown sugar.
3. Add sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, and chopped herbs to the dry ingredients. Mix well.
4. Pour in buttermilk and stir until a sticky dough forms.
5. Turn dough onto a floured surface and knead gently for 2-3 minutes.
6. Shape into a round loaf and place on prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Potato and Cabbage Boxty
A classic Irish dish with a delightful twist, this potato and cabbage boxty recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and grated
– 1 medium head of cabbage, shredded
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine grated potatoes, shredded cabbage, chopped onion, and minced garlic.
2. Beat in the egg and mix until well combined.
3. Add the flour and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the potato mixture into the hot oil, flattening slightly with a spatula.
6. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
7. Remove from oil and drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Guinness and Mushroom Pie
Experience the rich flavors of Ireland with this unique pie that combines the bold taste of Guinness stout with earthy mushrooms.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup puff pastry, thawed
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and button), sliced
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup Guinness stout
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook onion and mushrooms over medium heat until tender.
3. Add flour, salt, and pepper to the skillet; stir to combine.
4. Gradually add Guinness stout, stirring constantly; bring mixture to a simmer.
5. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
6. Spoon mushroom mixture onto one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2-inch border around edges.
7. Top with cheddar cheese and fold other half of pastry over filling; press edges to seal.
8. Brush top with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with a little water).
9. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Roasted Root Vegetable Shepherd’s Pie
Elevate your classic shepherd’s pie with a delicious twist by incorporating roasted root vegetables. This comforting dish is perfect for a chilly evening or as a side to your favorite main course.
Ingredients:
– 2 large carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 large parsnips, peeled and chopped
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and chopped
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 1 cup beef or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss the chopped root vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 30 minutes.
3. In a large pan, sauté the onion and garlic until softened. Add the roasted vegetables, peas, and broth. Simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the liquid has reduced slightly.
4. Roll out the pie crust to fit a 9×13 inch baking dish. Fill with the vegetable mixture.
5. Cook at 375°F (190°C) for an additional 20-25 minutes or until the filling is hot and the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Irish Champ with Spring Onions
Irish Champ is a traditional dish that combines mashed potatoes with scallions (spring onions) and butter, creating a flavorful side dish perfect for St. Patrick’s Day or any occasion. This recipe adds a twist by incorporating fresh spring onions for an extra burst of flavor.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into small pieces
– 1/2 cup scallions (spring onions), thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Boil the chopped potatoes in a large pot of salted water until they are tender. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot.
2. Add the butter, salt, and pepper to the mashed potatoes and mix well.
3. Stir in the thinly sliced spring onions until they’re evenly distributed throughout the potatoes.
4. Serve hot, garnished with additional chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spinach and Cheese Potato Cakes
Elevate your breakfast or brunch game with these flavorful and crispy Spinach and Cheese Potato Cakes. Made with mashed potatoes, wilted spinach, and melted cheese, they’re a delicious twist on traditional potato pancakes.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
Instructions:
1. Boil the potatoes until tender, then mash and set aside.
2. In a pan, wilt the spinach with a pinch of salt over medium heat. Let cool.
3. Mix the mashed potatoes, cooked spinach, cheese, egg, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
4. Gradually add flour to form a thick dough.
5. Divide into 6-8 portions and shape into patties.
6. Heat a non-stick pan with oil over medium heat. Cook the cakes for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
7. Serve warm with your favorite toppings, such as sour cream or chives.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Beetroot and Apple Soup
A sweet and earthy twist on traditional soups, this Beetroot and Apple Soup is a perfect blend of flavors.
Ingredients:
• 2 large beetroot, peeled and chopped
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 apples, peeled and chopped
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chopped onion in a little bit of oil until softened.
2. Add the chopped beetroot and apples, and cook for 5 minutes or until they start to soften.
3. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
4. Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the beetroot is tender.
5. Use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a blender to puree until smooth.
6. If desired, stir in heavy cream to add richness and creaminess.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Carrot and Parsnip Mash
This vibrant mash brings together the natural sweetness of carrots and parsnips, perfect as a side dish or accompaniment to your favorite main courses. A simple yet flavorful twist on classic mashed potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 2 large carrots, peeled and chopped
– 1 large parsnip, peeled and chopped
– 1/4 cup butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or whole milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: garlic powder or grated nutmeg for added depth
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss the chopped carrots and parsnips with a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.
4. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
5. In a large bowl, combine the roasted carrots and parsnips, butter, and heavy cream or milk.
6. Mash until smooth, adding salt, pepper, garlic powder, or nutmeg to taste.
7. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Wild Mushroom and Thyme Risotto
This creamy risotto combines the earthy flavors of wild mushrooms with the warmth of thyme, perfect for a cozy dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz mixed wild mushrooms (such as chanterelle, cremini, and oyster), cleaned and sliced
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the broth in a separate pot and keep warm.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Add the sliced mushrooms and thyme sprigs; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
5. Add 1/2 cup of warmed broth to the rice mixture and stir until absorbed. Repeat this process, adding the broth in 1/2-cup increments, stirring until absorbed, for about 20-25 minutes or until the rice is cooked and creamy.
6. Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Baked Eggs with Irish Cheddar
Elevate your morning routine with this creamy and delicious baked egg recipe featuring sharp Irish cheddar. Perfect for a quick breakfast or brunch, these eggs are sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Ingredients:
– 4 large eggs
– 1/2 cup Irish cheddar cheese, shredded
– 1 tablespoon butter, melted
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk them together with a fork.
3. In a small baking dish, combine the melted butter and Irish cheddar cheese.
4. Pour the egg mixture over the cheese and smooth out the top.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the whites are set and the yolks are cooked to your desired doneness.
6. Remove from oven and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Parsley and Chive Dumplings in Broth
A hearty and flavorful soup filled with tender dumplings infused with the freshness of parsley and chives, perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of round wonton wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Vegetable broth, enough to cover the dumplings
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine parsley, chives, flour, salt, and pepper.
2. Lay a wonton wrapper on a flat surface. Place a small spoonful of the herb mixture in the center of the wrapper.
3. Fold the wrapper into a triangle by bringing the two opposite corners together to form a point. Press the edges together to seal the dumpling.
4. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling.
5. Bring the vegetable broth to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
6. Add the dumplings to the broth, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes or until they float to the surface.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Lentil and Vegetable Hotpot
A hearty and comforting one-pot dish perfect for a chilly evening. This lentil and vegetable hotpot is packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins from the variety of colorful vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 1 large red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion, carrots, bell pepper, and garlic in a little water until tender.
2. Add the lentils, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Oatmeal and Honey Porridge with Berries
Start your day off right with this comforting oatmeal recipe, infused with the sweetness of honey and the freshness of berries.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 2 cups water or milk (or a combination of both)
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 tbsp honey
– 1/4 cup mixed berries (such as blueberries, strawberries, raspberries)
– Optional: sliced banana or chopped nuts for added texture and flavor
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the water or milk to a gentle simmer.
2. Add the oats, salt, and honey. Stir until the oats have absorbed most of the liquid and the mixture has thickened slightly, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Fold in the mixed berries.
4. Cook for an additional minute, stirring occasionally, until the berries are heated through.
5. Serve warm, topped with optional sliced banana or chopped nuts.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Warm Potato Salad with Mustard Dressing
Add a twist to classic potato salad with this warm and tangy recipe, perfect for any occasion. This comforting side dish is easy to make and pairs well with grilled meats or as a standalone snack.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the diced potatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the potatoes and toss to coat.
4. Roast the potatoes in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are tender and lightly browned.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together mustard, honey, salt, and pepper.
6. Toss the roasted potatoes with the mustard dressing until well coated.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Braised Red Cabbage with Apples
This hearty side dish combines the natural sweetness of apples with the earthy flavor of red cabbage, all wrapped up in a rich and tangy braising liquid. Perfect for autumnal gatherings or as a comforting accompaniment to your favorite main courses.
Ingredients:
– 1 large head of red cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2-3 apples (any variety), peeled and sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the sliced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the red cabbage and apples; cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Pour in the chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, and honey. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and braise for 30-40 minutes or until the cabbage is tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 35-45 minutes
Herbed Cheese and Onion Tart
This savory tart is a perfect combination of caramelized onions, melted cheese, and fragrant herbs, all nestled in a buttery crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Transfer to the prepared baking sheet.
3. In a large skillet, cook onions over medium-low heat for 20-25 minutes or until caramelized, stirring occasionally.
4. Spread cooked onions evenly over the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Sprinkle cheddar cheese and chopped herbs over the onions.
6. Fold the pastry edges up over the filling to form a crust. Brush with remaining butter.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Discover the rich flavors of Ireland with these 18 hearty vegetarian recipes. From classic dishes like Colcannon with Kale and Leeks to innovative twists on traditional favorites, this collection has something for everyone. Savor the comforting warmth of Vegetable Irish Stew with Barley or Guinness and Mushroom Pie, or try your hand at Potato and Cabbage Boxty. Also featured are creative takes on shepherd’s pie, potato cakes, and lentil hotpots. Whether you’re a fan of sweet treats like Oatmeal and Honey Porridge with Berries or savory dishes like Braised Red Cabbage with Apples, there’s something to delight in this collection.