Irish stew is a slow-cooked dish made with meat, vegetables, and herbs, often associated with basic farm fare. Variations of the stew are popular in many countries and can be modified to incorporate new flavors or ingredients. The classic recipe involves browning diced meat with garlic, adding herbs, broth, and wine, then simmering with sauteed […]
The US has over 7 times more people of Irish descent than Ireland’s population of 4.6 million citizens. About 11% of Americans claim Irish ancestry, with Butte, Montana having the highest Irish-American population. March is Irish-American Heritage Month. German ancestry was more widely claimed. About 11%, or 35 million out of an estimated 310 million, […]
The Irish car bomb is a mixed drink made with stout, Irish cream, and Irish whiskey. It is named after the explosive experience it creates and is associated with Irish culture and conflict. Variations include using different types of beer, whiskey, and creamers. It can be dressed up for special occasions, such as using mint […]
Irish monks preserved Roman written artifacts and spread Christianity after the fall of Rome. They also continued to Christianize areas that had not been reached. Irish Catholicism became stricter in the 17th century. The claim that the Irish saved civilization must be qualified as they notably preserved Roman thought, but civilization would have existed in […]
The Irish Renaissance was a movement in the late 19th and early 20th century that aimed to revive Irish and Celtic culture. It included literature, music, crafts, and art. Notable authors include Yeats, Synge, and Lady Gregory. The movement also established institutions such as the Abbey Theater. The Irish Renaissance, also described as The Irish […]
The Irish Potato Famine of 1845-1849 was caused by a fungus that destroyed potato crops, leading to the deaths of thousands of Irish people. The British government’s discrimination against Catholics and failure to effectively curb hunger contributed to the tragedy. The famine also led to mass emigration, reducing Ireland’s population from nearly seven million to […]
Irish Soda Bread is a dense and savory quick bread made with soft flour, baking soda, buttermilk, butter, and salt. It is traditionally marked with a cross and served warm with butter. The bread originated in Ireland when baking soda was used as a substitute for baking powder. To make it, sift together soft wheat […]
Irish whiskey is made from grains grown in Ireland, distilled three times, and aged in old oak barrels. It has a smooth, rich flavor and a long history dating back to the 8th century. Scottish whiskey is typically double distilled and has a smoky, earthy flavor. Irish whiskey is an alcoholic beverage distilled from grain. […]
Irish ham is cured and smoked over peat or juniper, giving it a spicy, evergreen flavor. It requires soaking overnight before cooking and is often served with savory basting sauces. It can be expensive, but country-style hams make a good substitute. Serving it in thin slices with water-rich foods can help reduce its strong flavor. […]
Irish pubs have a rich history dating back to the Middle Ages, where they were frequented by the lower classes. During British rule, they were made illegal, but flourished as a symbol of rebellion. Today, Irish pubs are replicated worldwide, but the regional personality is often reflected in their decor. Don’t forget to try Guinness […]
Irish coffee is a hot drink made with coffee, whiskey, and topped with whipped cream. Its origins are in Ireland, and it has become a popular drink worldwide, with variations like Bailey coffee and Kentucky coffee. It should be consumed in moderation due to its alcohol content. Irish coffee is a drink made by mixing […]
Irish potatoes come in many varieties, each with its own taste and texture. They are generally healthy, high in vitamin C and potassium, and can be cooked in many ways. Different types are best for different cooking methods, and some are only available at certain times of the year. Potatoes come in many varieties and […]
Irish potatoes can refer to real potatoes with white interiors and brown skin, candy or biscuits made to look like potatoes, or recipes using potatoes prepared in the traditional Irish way. The potato was once an essential part of the Irish diet, but a blight in the mid-19th century caused mass starvation. Traditional Irish potato […]
Irish Breakfast tea is a strong blend of black teas, primarily Assam tea from India. It is associated with breakfast teas and is popular worldwide. The best Irish breakfast tea is loose leaf, brewed in a pot and served with cream and sugar. Irish Breakfast tea is a strong and full-bodied blend of black teas. […]
“Irish twins” refers to babies born within 12 months of each other. It can be challenging for parents due to similar needs, lack of alone time, and exhaustion. Planning, support, baby supplies, and alone time can help. It’s important for parents to take breaks and care for themselves. Irish twins is a derogatory name that […]
The phrase “luck of the Irish” has various interpretations. Some believe it means the Irish are inherently lucky, while others trace it back to the gold rush in America. However, some argue that luck is not the right word, as Irish history is filled with periods of misfortune and tragedy. The phrase may also refer […]
The term “Black Irish” is used outside of Ireland to describe people of Irish descent with darker features than stereotypical Irish features. Its origin is unclear, but it may refer to descendants of Spanish soldiers or immigrants during the Great Famine. It may also have sociopolitical origins or be used to hide true ancestry. Some […]
Language barriers are not a concern for Americans traveling to Ireland, as English is the primary language. Only 30% of Irish citizens feel confident in speaking Irish due to historical events such as the Great Famine. Irish surnames often begin with ‘Mac’ or ‘O’, and Bram Stoker based Dracula on his friend Henry Irving. John […]
The Irish Blessing is a well-known toast often attributed to St. Patrick, but its author is unknown. Traditional Irish blessings for weddings and other events exist, as do curses and toasts. Many are anonymous and can be used without attribution. Irish blessing tends to refer to a specific blessing that can be used in a […]
