Irish Stew History
A St. Patricks DayTradition
Irish Stew, also called "Stobhach Gaelach," is a traditional Irish dish. In "orginal" fashion, Irish Stew is made with lamb or mutton. Mutton comes from an older and less tender sheep. Its fattier and more flavourful. Other ingredients include potatoes, onions, and parsley. Traditionally prepared, its not "soupy," but rather thick, bold, and hearty..
Its a filling peasant-type dish, although chocked full of flavor, made from readily available ingredients. Sheep and root crops were plentiful in Ireland, and a primary source of food.
As Irish immigrant began to arrive in the United States, they brought along a variety of hearty food recipes and Irish traditions, Over the years, Irish Stew has been adapted to become more "Americanized." Mainly because sheep were not as plentiful, here, so beef became a popular substitute.
Its not, necessarily, a St. Patrick's Day tradition, but an overall "general" type of meal. However, its always part of our American observance of the holiday, as well as the festive wearing of green and celebrating with large amounts of alcohol.
St. Patrick, by the way is the Patron Saint of Ireland. Among the many mircales he's credited with, was ridding Ireland of snakes. The customary tradition of imbibing alcohol on St. Patrick's Day comes from an old Irish legend, which is rather lengthy and has a few versions. The holiday is reported to have been first celebrated in America in Boston, Massachusetts, circa 1737. St. Patrick's Day is widely celebrated acress the nation. In Ireland, its more of a religious matter.
Back to Homestyle Recipes | Homestyle Cook Webcast | Original Cooking Product Reviews
- © 2009 homestyleblogs.com -