In drive-thru America, it seems the world is our chef. We order Chinese. We go out for Italian. There is a Taco Bell in every town. But Irish food? Not so much. Despite its absence from take-out bags in this country, Ireland has a food history and tradition all its own. The Irish have passed down recipes through the generations, recipes still used in Ireland and by descendents in other countries. The Irish remember home, family and friends with meals from the old country.

The potato was the staple of the Irish diet when the tragedy of the potato famine struck the country. In 1845, the potato crop was wiped out by blight and an estimated one million Irish died of disease and starvation. Many more were forced to emigrate to the United States, Canada, Australia and other countries to escape starvation.

It took many years, but Ireland has recovered and grown into a vibrant country with an established food tradition. Potatoes are still a staple, along with bread, meat, fish and dairy products.

Traditional recipes for Irish food are prepared throughout the world and have been included in modern menu selections.

In recent years, Irish restaurants have become known for a new, modern cuisine. The chefs of Ireland have developed a style that combines traditional Irish fare with European sophistication. Recipes for Irish food are varied and delicious.

The wide range of food choices is apparent on a trip to Ireland. In Dublin, fresh and trendy sushi can be found in an upscale restaurant only a few blocks from the traditional fish and chips fare of a classic pub. Bars serve fine wines from around the world, but you will always hear a cheer of "Slainte" when someone is handed a Guinness.

Although a FedEx guy, instead of a pimpled teenager, will drive it to you, you actually can order Irish food. The website foodireland.com delivers many uniquely Irish treats to your door, and you don’t have to tip the driver. The cheeses are wonderful, and the crisps (potato chips) remind me of having a snack while driving around Ireland. The Irish style bacon gives you a bit of the "full Irish" breakfast. The Irish style scones are exactly like those I've had many times throughout Ireland. It’s not the same as being in Ireland, but it’s a good way to experience the classic Irish foods at home.

The popular traditional recipes prepared in Ireland and throughout the world include:

Potato Soup ,

Irish Stew ,

Colcannon ,

Soda Bread,

Brown Bread,

Scones,

Irish Whiskey Cake,

Apple Cake ,

Pineapple Cake ,

Oatcakes,

Boiled Bacon and Cabbage,

Baked Ham and Boiled Cabbage ,

Coddle ,

Beef and Stout Casserole,

Irish Salads,

Champ ,

Boxty,

Baked Parsnips,

Beef with Guinness,

Irish Potatoes,

Baked Trout,

Beer Batter Fish,

Boiled Dinner, and

Corned Beef and Cabbage (Is it really an Irish recipe?), and

Corned Beef Hash .

You will even find special recipes for Irish wedding cake.

Traditional Irish drink recipes include:

Irish Coffee ,

Bailey's Irish Cream,

Irish Punch,

Irish Handshake,

Black and Tan, and

Irish Old Fashioned.

Why wait for St. Patrick's Day? Try one of the authentic Irish recipes someday soon!

Copyright, Patricia McKinney-Lins. All rights reserved.