When it comes to traditional Irish cuisine, we often think of hearty dishes like shepherd’s pie, corned beef and cabbage, and soda bread. While these classics are certainly delicious, there’s more to Irish cooking than meets the eye. In recent years, Irish chefs have been experimenting with new ingredients, techniques, and flavors, resulting in a modern Irish food scene that’s as vibrant and exciting as it is authentic.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through Ireland, exploring 18 flavorful recipes that put a twist on traditional dishes. From rich and comforting braises to bright and zesty salads, these recipes showcase the best of Ireland’s local ingredients and cooking traditions, reimagined for the modern palate.
Guinness Braised Short Ribs with Colcannon Mash
Experience the rich flavors of Ireland with this hearty short ribs dish, slow-cooked in Guinness stout and served with a creamy colcannon mash.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 beef short ribs
– 1 bottle Guinness stout
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4-5 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 1 head of cabbage, chopped
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven, heat oil over medium-high. Brown short ribs on all sides, then set aside.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened. Add Guinness, broth, tomato paste, and thyme. Stir to combine.
4. Return short ribs to the pot, cover, and transfer to the preheated oven. Braise for 2 1/2 hours or until tender.
5. Meanwhile, boil potatoes and cabbage in salted water until tender. Drain and mash with butter, heavy cream, salt, and pepper.
Cooking Time: 2 1/2 hours (short ribs), 15-20 minutes (colcannon)
Modern Irish Soda Bread with Honey Butter
Get ready to experience the warmth of Ireland in every bite! This classic soda bread recipe is elevated by a sweet and sticky honey butter that will become your new favorite combination.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten
– Honey butter (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. Add buttermilk, melted butter, and beaten egg. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Turn dough onto a floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
5. Shape into a round loaf and place on prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Honey Butter:
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon pure honey
Mix until well combined. Spread on warm soda bread before serving.
Tips:
– Use buttermilk for the best flavor and texture.
– Don’t overmix the dough!
– Serve with a pat of honey butter and enjoy!
Whiskey-Glazed Salmon with Dill Potatoes
Elevate your dinner game with this sweet and savory salmon dish, paired with a flavorful side of dill potatoes.
Ingredients:
For the Whiskey-Glazed Salmon:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup whiskey glaze (see below)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the Dill Potatoes:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
Whiskey Glaze:
Mix 1/2 cup whiskey, 1/4 cup honey, 2 tbsp brown sugar, and 1 tsp Dijon mustard.
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper. Drizzle with olive oil.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While the salmon is cooking, prepare the dill potatoes: Toss cubed potatoes with melted butter, chopped fresh dill, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
6. Brush whiskey glaze over salmon during the last 2 minutes of cooking.
Cooking Time: Salmon: 12-15 minutes; Dill Potatoes: 20-25 minutes
Crispy Black Pudding and Apple Slaw
This sweet and savory combination is a perfect accompaniment to your next meal. The crispy black pudding provides a satisfying texture, while the apple slaw adds a tangy and refreshing contrast.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of black pudding
– 1 large apple, peeled and thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp mayonnaise
– 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the black pudding slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until crispy and golden brown.
4. Meanwhile, combine the apple slices, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
5. Toss to coat the apples evenly.
6. To assemble, place a slice of black pudding on a plate and top with a spoonful of apple slaw.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Smoked Haddock Chowder with Leeks
This hearty chowder combines the rich flavor of smoked haddock with the subtle sweetness of leeks, making it a perfect comfort food for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound smoked haddock, flaked
– 2 medium leeks, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup fish stock (or chicken broth)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add leeks and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until softened.
3. Sprinkle flour over the mixture and cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add fish stock and heavy cream, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
6. Stir in flaked smoked haddock and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Irish Cheddar and Stout Fondue
A rich and creamy fondue perfect for dipping crudités, meats, or crackers, infused with the bold flavors of Irish cheddar and stout beer. This hearty snack is sure to satisfy any appetite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups grated Irish cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup Guinness stout beer
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.
2. Add the garlic and stir for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Gradually add the grated Irish cheddar cheese, stirring constantly until melted and smooth.
4. Add the Guinness stout beer and stir until well combined.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Seared Scallops with Parsnip Puree
A decadent yet effortless dish that pairs the tender sweetness of scallops with the creamy richness of parsnip puree.
Ingredients:
– 12 large scallops
– 2 medium parsnips, peeled and chopped
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat your skillet over high heat.
2. Pat the scallops dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper.
3. Add the butter to the skillet, then sear the scallops for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
4. Remove the scallops from the skillet and set aside.
5. In the same skillet, add the chopped parsnips and cook over medium heat for 10-12 minutes, or until tender.
6. Use an immersion blender to puree the parsnips with a splash of water until smooth.
7. Serve the seared scallops atop the warm parsnip puree, garnished with fresh parsley leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lamb Stew with Root Vegetables and Herbs
A hearty and flavorful stew that’s perfect for a chilly evening, this lamb stew is packed with tender root vegetables and infused with the savory flavors of herbs. This recipe makes 4-6 servings.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder or shanks, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 medium parsnips, peeled and chopped
– 1 large red potato, peeled and chopped
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the lamb and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add the onion, carrots, parsnips, and potato to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 10-12 minutes.
4. Add the garlic, thyme, cumin, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
5. Return the lamb to the pot and add enough water to cover the ingredients. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour or until the lamb is tender.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 10-12 minutes
Baked Brie with Irish Whiskey Jam
Elevate your cheese board game with this rich and indulgent baked brie, paired with a sweet and tangy Irish whiskey jam.
Ingredients:
– 1 wheel of brie cheese (about 12 ounces)
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons Irish whiskey
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Roll out the brie cheese on a lightly floured surface to about 1-inch thickness.
3. In a small bowl, mix together sugar, honey, Irish whiskey, Dijon mustard, and paprika.
4. Spread the jam mixture evenly over the brie cheese, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
5. Place the cheese on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for 12-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and slightly puffed.
6. Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Potato and Kale Croquettes with Garlic Aioli
Transform humble potatoes and kale into crispy, flavorful bites, paired with a rich and creamy garlic aioli for dipping. These bite-sized treats are perfect for snacking or as an addition to your favorite meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and grated
– 1 bunch of kale, stems removed and chopped
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Garlic Aioli ingredients: 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, combine potatoes, kale, flour, egg, panko breadcrumbs, and Parmesan cheese. Mix well.
3. Shape mixture into small patties.
4. Place patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Meanwhile, mix garlic Aioli ingredients in a bowl.
7. Serve croquettes warm with garlic aioli for dipping.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Beef and Guinness Pie with Flaky Pastry
Beef and Guinness Pie with Flaky Pastry: A hearty, comforting dish perfect for a chilly evening. This recipe combines tender beef, rich Guinness stout, and flaky pastry for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef stew meat
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Guinness stout
– 1 cup beef broth
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 2 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
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 beef into small pieces.
3. Add garlic, Guinness stout, beef broth, tomato paste, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Roll out puff pastry to fit a 9×13-inch baking dish. Place beef mixture in the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
5. Fold pastry over filling, pressing edges to seal. Cut slits in top crust for steam to escape.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Caramelized Onion and Goat Cheese Tart
Savory Sweetness in a Tart Shell: Caramelized Onion and Goat Cheese Tart
This elegant tart is the perfect combination of sweet caramelized onions, creamy goat cheese, and flaky pastry crust. It’s an ideal appetizer or side dish for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup goat cheese crumbles
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a large skillet, cook onions over medium heat with olive oil until caramelized, stirring occasionally.
4. Spread the cooked onions evenly over the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
5. Top the onions with goat cheese crumbles and sprinkle with thyme.
6. Fold the edges of the pastry up over the filling to form a crust.
7. Brush the crust with a little water and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Roasted Beet and Goats Cheese Salad with Hazelnuts
Roasted Beet and Goats Cheese Salad with Hazelnuts: A sweet and savory combination of roasted beets, creamy goats cheese, and crunchy hazelnuts, all brought together by a tangy vinaigrette.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 beets
– 1/2 cup goat’s cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup chopped hazelnuts
– 1/4 cup mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Wrap beets in foil and roast for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. Let beets cool, then peel and slice into wedges.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
5. Arrange mixed greens on a plate, top with roasted beet wedges, crumbled goat’s cheese, and chopped hazelnuts.
6. Drizzle vinaigrette over the salad and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 50 minutes (roasting beets) + 10 minutes (assembling salad)
Pan-Fried Sea Trout with Samphire Butter
This recipe combines the delicate flavor of sea trout with the tangy sweetness of samphire butter, creating a harmonious balance of flavors. Perfect for a quick and impressive dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 x 120g sea trout fillets
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 bunch samphire (rock samphire or asparagus works well too), chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
2. Season the sea trout fillets with salt and pepper.
3. Add butter to the pan, letting it melt slightly.
4. Pan-fry the sea trout for 3-4 minutes per side, until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, mix chopped samphire into the remaining butter.
6. Serve the sea trout topped with the samphire butter and garnished with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Spiced Apple and Blackberry Crumble
Spiced Apple and Blackberry Crumble Recipe
Warm up with this delightful crumble recipe that combines the sweetness of apples and blackberries with the warmth of spices.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 tart apples, peeled and sliced
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blackberries
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together sliced apples and blackberries.
3. Add granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt; toss until fruit is evenly coated.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×9-inch baking dish.
5. In a separate bowl, combine rolled oats, brown sugar, and cold butter. Use your fingers or a pastry blender to work the butter into the dry ingredients until crumbly.
6. Spread the oat mixture evenly over the fruit filling.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and the fruit is tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Irish Coffee Chocolate Mousse
Elevate your dessert game with this decadent Irish Coffee Chocolate Mousse, featuring the perfect balance of rich chocolate, velvety whipped cream, and a hint of coffee.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz heavy whipping cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon instant coffee powder
– 1/4 cup melted semisweet chocolate chips
– 1 tablespoon Irish Cream liqueur (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, whip heavy cream and granulated sugar until stiff peaks form.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together cocoa powder, coffee powder, and melted chocolate until smooth.
3. Fold the chocolate mixture into the whipped cream until well combined.
4. Stir in Irish Cream liqueur, if using.
5. Spoon the mousse into individual serving cups or ramekins.
6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None
Brown Bread Ice Cream with Salted Caramel
Brown Bread Ice Cream with Salted Caramel: A rich and creamy ice cream infused with the warm, comforting flavors of brown bread and topped with a sweet and salty caramel swirl.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup crushed brown bread (about 3-4 slices)
– Salted Caramel Sauce (recipe below)
Salted Caramel Sauce:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon sea salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the cream, milk, and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
2. Remove from heat and stir in the melted butter and vanilla extract. Let cool to room temperature.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Once chilled, pour into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
5. During the last 2 minutes of churning, add the crushed brown bread.
6. Transfer the churned ice cream to an airtight container and cover with Salted Caramel Sauce (see below).
7. Freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (for caramel sauce)
Note: You can also use store-bought salted caramel sauce if desired.
Rhubarb and Ginger Upside-Down Cake
This sweet and tangy cake is a perfect blend of flavors, with caramelized rhubarb and crystallized ginger adding a delightful twist to the classic upside-down dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 3/4 cups (210g) brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons grated fresh ginger
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– Salt to taste
– 1 cup (120g) rhubarb, sliced into 1-inch pieces
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, cream butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by grated ginger.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
6. Arrange rhubarb slices in the prepared baking dish.
7. Pour batter over rhubarb and smooth top.
8. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
9. Invert cake onto a serving plate and dust with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Summary
Get ready to experience the bold flavors of modern Irish cuisine! This article presents 18 mouth-watering recipes that put a creative twist on traditional Irish dishes. From hearty comfort food like Guinness Braised Short Ribs with Colcannon Mash and Beef and Guinness Pie with Flaky Pastry, to innovative twists on classic fare like Modern Irish Soda Bread with Honey Butter and Whiskey-Glazed Salmon with Dill Potatoes. Whether you’re a fan of seafood, meat, or sweet treats, there’s something for everyone in this collection of flavorful modern Irish recipes.