Study Ireland – Stories & Guides from International Students

One of the best ways to experience a new culture is through its food, that is especially true for Ireland as we take great pride in our food (and drink!). In Ireland, we are known for our hearty and comforting foods which mostly tend to be homemade meals made with fresh local ingredients and a whole lot of love. In this blog I’ll recommend and rate the 5 most famous Irish dinners as well as some sweat treats and snacks to have afterwards. Prepared to be hungry after this! 

1. Bacon & Cabbage – A Traditional Favourite  

In at number 1 and my personal favourite is the infamous “Bacon & Cabbage”. This meal consists of boiled bacon (AKA ham) served with fresh cabbage and creamy mashed potatoes (spuds!) often accompanied by parsley sauce or if you’re like me then gravy (lots of Irish people find the gravy choice criminal oops). This signature dish has been enjoyed in every Irish household for generations and is the epitome of an Irish home-cooked meal. I honestly think this dinner would be my death row meal and would have to rate it a strong 10/10 (maybe I’m biased). 

2. Irish Stew – The Ultimate Comfort Food 

Our runner up and in second place is the Irish Stew, a true staple of the Irish cuisine. It is a hearty dish often eaten during the Winter or on exceptionally cold days to warm up the Irish bellies. It consists of Irish beef (sometimes lamb), potatoes, carrots, onions and herbs and is cooked ‘low and slow’ to ensure a rich flavour. Stew will be on the menu in majority of Irish pubs around the country usually all year round so definitely give it a try if you need some comfort food. Some Irish people tend to have a love/ hate relationship with stew (I think because we ate so much of it growing up) so now I would have to rate it an 8/10. 

3. Shepard’s Pie – A Classic 

In third place and quite similar to the Stew is the well-known Shepard’s Pie. Another staple Irish dish in every home in the country it consists of seasoned minced lamb or beef cooked in a dish with carrots, peas and onions. You guessed it – an Irish meal is not complete without potatoes (spuds) so in this case creamy mashed potatoes are placed on top of the meat in the dish and then baked until golden-brown. This meal is exceptionally filling to eat and from my experience is less common than the two previously mentioned meals. None the less it’s another classic and I would rate it a fair 7/10. 

4. Fish’ n Chips – A Seaside Staple 

In at number 4 is the immensely underrated Fish and Chips. In certain parts of Ireland (usually in coastal towns) you can taste some of the world’s best fish and chips while enjoying the sea air. Usually, cod or haddock is freshly battered and deep fried to crispy perfection served with chunky chips (salt & vinegar are mandatory), mushy green peas and tartar sauce for the full effect. Unlike the other dishes mentioned, this one wouldn’t be cooked at home as often and is more of a “day out” treat for the Irish folk. As I mentioned this meal is best known to be served on the coast however lucky for you Limerick does have a hidden gem that’s famous for its Fish’n Chips – check out ‘Donkey Fords’ if you’re intrigued. This is a takeaway only chipper that serves their fresh fish in brown paper, for a real traditional feel (important to note, they only accept cash, no cards). I am going to rate this staple another 10/10 – I can’t fault it! 

After you have tried all those satisfying meals, you’re going to want to try a famous Irish sweet-treat or snack to top off your experience of authentic Irish food, here’s a list of what I’d recommend: 

1. Tayto Crisps – the Cheese & Onion flavour is the most famous, but they offer a huge range of flavours so see what interests you! I love the Salt & Vinegar ones too. Tip: Try a packet of the cheese & onion crips in between 2 slices of white Brennan’s bread with some Irish butter (known as “a Tayto sandwich”, don’t knock it till you try it) 

2. Barry’s Tea with a Digestive Biscuit – the ultimate cosy evening comfort treat. No notes for this one it’s just a must try. *Chocolate Digestive reccommended. 

3. Cadburys Dairy Milk (Irish Version) – no other country’s dairy milk compares (sorry!). The Irish Cadbury Dairy Milk is creamier than any other version I promise. Again, multiple flavours are available, I would recommend the Golden Crisp for an added crunch! 

In summary, there are so many good Irish foods for you to try during your stay here. The Irish cuisine is full of flavour & love and has stood the test of time, there’s something for everyone to enjoy and experience (I’m not being biased!). Be sure to try and enjoy them. 

Sláinte!