21 Traditional Irish Foods That’ll Transport You to a Cozy Dublin Pub

Ireland might not be famous for its cuisine, but that’s a big mistake! If you love comfort food, you’ll love Irish food. It isn’t about fancy plating or complicated recipes. These are the dishes you’ll still find in pubs and homes across Ireland, made the same way they’ve been for generations.

From hearty stews and fresh-baked bread to simple seafood and classic pub fare, these traditional Irish foods show how good honest cooking can be. These traditional dishes are as popular as ever, so don’t miss out on tasting them when you visit!

Irish Stew

Irish stew started as a simple, hearty dish made with mutton, potatoes, and onions, perfect for families with limited resources. Born in the 17th or 18th century, it was a staple for shepherds and farmers needing a filling meal.

Irish stew is still a national favorite, symbolizing the island’s warmth and tradition.

White Pudding

You’ve probably heard about black pudding, but what about white pudding? This special dish is a quintessential part of a traditional full Irish breakfast, and it’s an experience you shouldn’t miss if you’re visiting the Emerald Isle.

White pudding is made with oatmeal, bread, pork, and fat, all stuffed into a sausage casing. It’s usually sliced, fried, or grilled, offering a milder taste with hints of onion and spices. White pudding is lighter and more delicate than blood sausage, which has a stronger, earthier flavor.

7. Smoked Salmon

Ireland’s pristine waters are renowned for producing some of the world’s finest salmon. This smokey, buttery fish is a must-try when visiting the charming Island.

Irish smoked salmon goes great on a salad, with cream cheese and bread, or at a festive brunch. Legends say that Druids offered oak-smoked salmon to the god Dagda over two thousand years ago, and it continues as a delicious Celtic symbol of tradition and hospitality.

Shepherd’s Pie

You may have had shepherd’s pie before, but traditional shepherd’s pie in Ireland has a different historical twist.

Cottage Pie, born in the 19th-century British Isles, was a thrifty dish made from leftover beef and topped with mashed potatoes. When the British occupied Ireland, they brought this dish, but the Irish preferred lamb for economic reasons. Hence, Shepherd’s Pie evolved, using lamb instead of beef.

It’s a hearty combination of tender meat (traditionally lamb, but beef is also popular nowadays, which is contradictory to a hundred years ago), rich gravy, and a creamy mashed potato topping.

Boxty

Do you know what they say in Ireland? “Boxty on the griddle, boxty in the pan, if you can’t make boxty, you’ll never get a man.”

But superstitions aside, if you’re a pancake fan (who isn’t?), don’t miss Boxty when you’re in Ireland — this dish made with grated and mashed potatoes is a true local favorite showcasing the country’s love for its most famous crop. If you’re familiar with latkes or Jewish potato pancakes, Boxty is somewhat similar.

This traditional Irish potato pancake has roots in rural Ireland, where potatoes were a staple. It’s traditionally associated with Halloween, as potatoes are harvested in autumn. The dish’s name comes from the Irish phrase “arán bocht tí,” meaning “poor-house bread,” reflecting its humble origins.

Irish Soda Bread

The Irish take their St. Patrick’s Day feast seriously, and no celebration is complete without soda bread. It’s the must-have side dish that makes any Irish dinner truly special!

Irish soda bread first appeared in the 1830s when baking soda was new in the U.K. During tough times, it became a go-to dish because it was cheap and easy, needing just wheat flour, baking soda, salt, and soured milk. In remote areas, families made it using iron pots over open fires. It’s currently a key part of St. Patrick’s Day and a staple in Irish cuisine.

Even if it’s not St. Patrick’s Day, you’ve got to try quick bread when you’re in Ireland. Grab a loaf of Market 32 Irish Soda Bread online or at your local store!

Ulster Fry

For a perfect start to your day exploring, try the Ulster Fry, a hearty Northern Irish breakfast that’ll keep you energized.

The Ulster Fry is a hearty Northern Irish breakfast that truly captures the region’s warmth and tradition. This filling meal includes juicy sausages, fried eggs with runny yolks, and mushrooms for a fresh twist.

It’s a classic farmer’s breakfast that’s both satisfying and delicious, perfect for fueling up on a busy day. Don’t forget Irish breakfast tea with your Ulster Fry, the traditional morning beverage all over Ireland.

Tayto Crisps

Well, who can resist a bowl of potato chips once in a while? In Ireland, it won’t be long before you see, taste, or hear the crunch of a salty Tayto crisp. In Ireland, what Americans call “chips” are called “crisps.”

The story of Tayto crisps started in the 1950s when Joe ‘Spud’ Murphy brought a mobile crisp machine from the U.S. to Dublin. From there, Tayto grew into Ireland’s favorite snack brand, now offering a wide range of flavors. You can find Tayto crisps everywhere, from corner shops to pubs and restaurants.

Coddle

Dublin Coddle is a classic Irish stew from the 18th century. It’s a hearty, comforting dish loved by many.

It’s a filling one-pot wonder made with simple ingredients like pork sausage, bacon, potatoes, and onions. The beauty of coddle lies in its simplicity — the flavors meld together perfectly during slow cooking, creating a rich and comforting stew. It’s the kind of dish that warms you from the inside out, perfect for chilly Irish evenings.

Bangers and Mash

Bangers and mash is a classic Irish dish that’s simple yet satisfying. This hearty meal features juicy sausages served over creamy mashed potatoes, all smothered in rich gravy. It’s comfort food at its finest, perfect for a cozy night in or a casual gathering with friends.

Irish Barmbrack

Irish barmbrack is a must-try for any visitor to Ireland, especially around Halloween. This rich, fruity bread is a beloved tradition, often enjoyed with a cup of tea.

Its origins can be traced back to ancient Celtic rituals, where it was baked as an offering to the spirits. Today, barmbrack is still associated with All Hallows Eve, and it’s often enjoyed with a bit of fortune-telling. Small objects like a coin, ring, or pea are traditionally hidden inside the bread. Finding a ring is said to predict marriage within the year, while a coin signifies wealth.

The good thing is, you can find Irish barmbrack in most bakeries and cafes throughout Ireland!  You will surely find this delicious treat if you’re exploring Dublin, Cork, or the countryside.

Black Pudding

Black pudding is a traditional Irish dish that many people love. Made from blood, fat, and spices, it has a unique flavor that pairs well with breakfast foods. Whether you enjoy it fried or grilled, it’s a must-try for anyone exploring Irish cuisine.

Apple Tart

Apple tart is a classic Irish dessert that brings warmth to any table. With its flaky crust and sweet apple filling, it’s a treat that everyone loves. Topped with a scoop of ice cream or a drizzle of caramel, this dish is sure to delight your taste buds!

Irish Fish Chowder

Surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean, Ireland boasts an abundance of fresh seafood, the star of this hearty and flavorful dish.

Seafood chowder is a favorite in Irish pubs and restaurants. This comforting bowl of goodness combines fresh and smoked fish with earthy potatoes, sweet onions, celery, corn, and other vegetables like carrots. It’s a warming, nutritious meal, especially on chilly days.

Irish Lamb Chops

Irish lamb chops are a true delight for meat lovers. Grilled to perfection, they offer a juicy and tender bite that pairs wonderfully with fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon. Enjoy them with seasonal vegetables for a hearty meal that captures the essence of traditional Irish cuisine.

Corned Beef and Cabbage

Corned beef and cabbage is a classic Irish dish that many enjoy, especially on St. Patrick’s Day. This hearty meal features tender corned beef paired with flavorful cabbage and often includes potatoes and carrots. It’s a simple, comforting dish that brings a taste of Ireland to your table.

Champ

Champ is a classic Irish dish made from creamy mashed potatoes mixed with chopped green onions. It’s simple yet comforting, often served with a generous drizzle of melted butter on top. This dish is a staple in many Irish homes and is perfect for pairing with meats or enjoying on its own.

Fish and Chips

Fish and chips is a classic dish that many love in Ireland. Crispy battered fish paired with golden fries makes for a satisfying meal. Don’t forget to dip it in some tartar sauce for that extra zing!

Rhubarb Crumble

Rhubarb crumble is a classic Irish dessert that combines tart rhubarb with a sweet, crumbly topping. It’s often served warm, making it a cozy treat for any occasion. A scoop of ice cream on top takes this dish to the next level!

Irish Cream Liqueur

Irish cream liqueur is a delightful blend of cream, whiskey, and chocolate flavors. It’s perfect for sipping on its own or adding to coffee for a cozy treat. This creamy drink has become a favorite around the world, bringing a taste of Ireland to many.

Colcannon

Colcannon, named after the Irish word for cabbage, is a nourishing mix of mashed potatoes, cabbage (some use kale), and scallions. Often paired with bacon or sausage, they say this hefty dish is a true taste of Irish hospitality, perfect for soothing the belly and the soul.

To experience authentic colcannon, you’ll want to visit traditional pubs or restaurants in Northern Ireland. Many offer classic Irish fare, including this beloved dish.

This article originally appeared on Travel Binger.