Irish Spices and Herbs To Keep In Your Kitchen Cabinet
Looking for something filling, tasty and wholesome? Irish cuisine is for you! With nutritious and accessible ingredients, Irish cuisine is known for simple, rustic dishes that reflect the country’s agricultural heritage and coastal bounty. Designed for sustenance and using inexpensive ingredients, such as potatoes and sausages, hearty dishes play an important role in Irish culture.
There are some key herbs, spices and seasonings when it comes to Irish cooking. Traditional Irish dishes heavily rely on herbs like thyme, parsley and bay leaves, with minimal use of exotic spices, to form the backbone of countless beloved dishes. This technique allows the natural flavors of vegetables, meats and dairy to come through, while elevating the dish to the next level. Not only that, these seasonings enhance the overall flavor profile of Irish marinades.
Irish food provides warmth, depth and character to every meal through the clever and artistic use of seasonings and marinades. More than just flavor enhancers, they hold cultural significance and represent the history of Ireland. Dive into some of the must-have ingredients that are frequently used in Irish cooking!
Thyme is of the Essence
Don’t be fooled by thyme’s small leaves – they have big flavor! With an earthy, semi-sweet flavor, this traditional herb is used in many Irish dishes. Whether fresh or dried, thyme complements fatty foods and meat well, working wonders in beef stews and soups for a more robust flavor.
Thyme adds a subtle complexity to a variety of dishes, including the traditional Dublin Coddle. Unfortunately, not many people outside of Ireland have heard of the magic of this dish. However, it has a special place in Irish cuisine. It’s thyme to try it out!
Parsley is a Must-Have Ingredient in Irish Cooking
Soups and stews are staple meals in Irish cuisine. Parsley is often used to liven up the broth and create a fresh, aromatic flavor in these dishes. With its crisp, spring taste, parsley brightens flavors and balances savory dishes. As the finishing touch to many Irish plates, it adds vibrancy with its burst of color and subtle herbal note.
If you want to explore an iconic Irish dish that contains parsley, Tommy Moloney’s has the recipe for you: Black Pudding and Goat Cheese Frittata. Black pudding may not be what you expect. Spoiler alert: it’s blood sausage. When paired with the creamy taste of goat cheese, the rich flavor of black pudding blends perfectly. A great option for breakfast and dinner, this dish is a tribute to the rich Irish culture!
Stop and Smell the Rosemary
Rosemary, a strong and fragrant herb, is an essential ingredient in Irish Lamb Stew. This herb’s pine-like aroma and sharp, earthy flavor pairs well with many meats and vegetables. Rosemary is a popular choice to jazz up any protein-based dish, as it infuses meats with a hearty, rustic character. However, it is often used in moderation to avoid overpowering other flavors in Irish dishes.
When it comes to Irish comfort food, Irish Sausage Rolls reign supreme as they warm your heart and soul. Tommy Moloney’s has you covered with the recipe and high-quality Irish Sausage Meat you need to enjoy these classic rolls as a full meal or portable snack.
Caraway Seeds are a Versatile Ingredient in Many Irish Dishes
Caraway seeds are widely kept in a typical Irish pantry – for good reason. Caraway seeds add a warm, sweet and slightly peppery aroma to Irish cuisine. They are a key ingredient in soups, stews and baked goods, such as cakes and bread.
Caraway seeds are an essential component of Irish soda bread, which typically accompanies an Irish Breakfast. Once you try it, you’ll be hooked!
Sage is a Savory Dinner Saver
Dried sage adds a delicious, warm flavor to Irish meals. This highly aromatic and fragrant herb is used exclusively in savory dishes and complements both meat and root vegetables. Savory dinner treats, such as Irish Sage Potato Muffins, depend on the aromatic herb for the fresh kick and color associated with the dish.
Explore Ireland’s Culinary Environment
Now that you have a general understanding of Irish seasonings, it’s time to get cooking! Order our premium meats, sausages and puddings for the authentic Irish cuisine experience.
