Family Meal: Traditional Irish Dinner

To many Irish-Americans, corned beef and cabbage conjures up nostalgic images of a rural Irish past. It is a traditional meal to eat on St. Patrick's Day and our recipe is easy to prepare. We've also included a recipe for clove-spiced sweet mustard that is is just divine!

If you prefer Irish Lamb Stew, we've got the perfect family recipe too. Our recipe call for ground lamb which is easier on the pocketbook; cooks in less time than using stew meat; and has a texture that appeals to small children too. Whether you choose to make Corned Beef or Irish lamb Stew, both are fantastic paired with our Roasted Cabbage and Potatoes.

Irish Dinner Menu

Corned Beef with Clove-spice mustard sauce

Or

Irish lamb stew

Roasted Cabbage and Potatoes

Fresh pineapple

Corned Beef with Clove-Spiced Sweet Mustard

Ingredients:

• 1 4-pound Corned beef
• 1/3 cup Yellow mustard
• 1/3 cup Brown sugar
• Dash of Ground cloves

Directions:

Remove corned beef from the package and rinse it in cold water. Place the corned beef in a large pot and fill with water until the meat is covered. If the corned beef came with a spice packet, open it and pour the contents into the water. Bring the pot to a boil and reduce heat to low and simmer 50 minutes per pound (a 4-pound corned beef will simmer for 3 hours and 35 minutes).

Introduction to Irish Food

  Introducing a World of Flavor

A visit to rural Ireland is filled with spectacular views of lush, green hillsides and fields. Ireland's green countryside is perfect for raising cattle and sheep and dairy farming.   The country's mild climate provides a long growing season for a variety of vegetables and fruits. Irish cooks take advantage of the local harvest by choosing to cook with high quality, local and fresh ingredients.

Irish cooks keep it simple in the kitchen. Dishes are prepared using basic ingredients and easy to follow recipes.

The common staples in an Irish kitchen include:

• Potatoes (you may have guessed this!)
• Root vegetables (parsnips, carrots, etc...)
• Cabbage
• Whole grains
• Beef, mutton (lamb/sheep) and fish
• Dairy products - cheese, milk, butter and buttermilk

Herbs and Spices in Irish Cooking

Herbs grow well in Ireland and are used in many soups, stews and main dishes. Commonly used herbs include parsley, sage, rosemary, thyme and bay leaves. Irish bakers like to use nutmeg, cinnamon, cloves and vanilla to create delicious breads and cakes.

For more information,  sign up for Fresh Ideas and get great advice on healthy eating for your family.