In the west of Ireland furrowed fields hug the coastline. Many a passer-by pays little to no attention to this ridged farmland, totally unaware these markings are the remnants of our ancestors’ toil. Referred to as lazy beds, these scars on the Irish countryside are evidence of an abandoned system of potato cultivation that once […]
The Spud Saga
Irish people love potatoes. The humble spud played an integral role in the history of Ireland, and America. Potatoes are part of our cultural identity. Here, I share recipes and ramblings all inspired by our beloved Irish spud. From the introduction of the potato to Ireland by Sir Walter Raleigh, to the Great Irish Famine, this is where you will find these stories.
What Is A Floury Potato?
Irish people love floury potatoes. But once we leave our native shores, most people have no idea what on earth we are talking about when we ask for floury potatoes. And so, today I plan to answer the all important question…. What is a Floury Potato? Floury potatoes have a fluffy, dry texture […]
When Life Gives You Lemons
Summer is here and lemonade season is upon us. Every time I squeeze a lemon for juice, I smile and think of the old proverbial saying … “When life gives you lemons, make lemonade.” What an encouraging, optimistic, can-do phrase, loved throughout America! Today let’s explore the origins of this phrase and let […]
The Famine Pot – Irish Historical Documentary on DVD
Last year we explored the history and cultural significance of Irish Famine Pots, the giant cast iron vessels created to cook massive volumes of soup to feed the starving Irish in 1847, the bleakest year of the Great Irish Famine. I’m delighted to report the completion of a new documentary film about the preservation of these cast […]
Traditional Irish Potato Soup
Irish potato soup uses simple ingredients, which in years gone by were easily available in rural Irish kitchens. When I say this soup is easy to make, I really mean it. There are only seven ingredients – potato, onion, butter, stock, cream, and salt and pepper to taste. My recipe today is for a very […]
Ireland Is Not Just About Potatoes Anymore
When I departed Ireland for the United States in the late 1980’s, I left behind a monocultural society. In the early part of the new millennium over half a million plus immigrants moved to my homeland, and with them they brought a new vibrancy, cultural flair, diversity and a variety of new foods and recipes. […]
Cheesy Irish Potato Cakes for Halloween
Halloween is a fun time for feasting on spooky treats. But why not make something wholesome and filling for little trick or treaters before they set out on their Halloween quest. Cheesy Irish potato cakes in spooky novelty shapes are great for dinner on October 31st. My Irish potato cake recipe is one of the […]
Cheesy Mushroom Potato Bites
Irish cheddar and mushroom potato bites are tasty little appetizers, that can even double up as a side dish. These versatile little morsels are perfect for parties, especially Irish themed celebrations. Preparation can be completed ahead of time. The only step required at party time is to pop them in the oven until the cheese […]
Potato Bread – Yeast Recipe
Potato bread made with yeast, flour and mashed potato is a hearty bread, perfect for serving with soups and stews. There are many traditional Irish recipes potato breads and cakes including soda farls made with potato, boxty potato pancakes made with mashed and grated raw potato, and potato cakes made with mashed potatoes. And of […]
How To Roast Potatoes Irish Or English Style
Ultra-crispy roast potatoes with soft, creamy insides, compliment a turkey dinner perfectly. Mashed potato may be the spud of choice in America for Thanksgiving, but turkey always makes my Irish taste buds long for roast potatoes. Today’s post is dedicated to the spud and the cooking method of choice for Irish Sunday dinners. I’ll show […]
