Is corned beef and cabbage really Irish?

The answer to that question is Yes.  It is also No.   If you ever visit Ireland, you will only find corned beef and cabbage at restaurants that cater to North American tourism.   Why?  Corned beef and cabbage is a 100% American crafted meal.   Yes, it was created by the Irish Americans.   In the late 1800’s Irish immigrants here in the United States used corned beef as a substitute for bacon.     In fact, it didn’t even come from New England as many people would guess, it came out of New York City.  

You see, when Irish immigrants living in New York City back in the late 19th century sought out a subsitute for their much loved Irish bacon, they were turned on to corned beef by their Jewish neighbors.   Corned beef was much cheaper than bacon and the corned beef and cabbage dinner was created.  It’s as American as apple pie.  In fact, most Irish balk at corned beef as it is merely an oversalted dish fit only for peasants.

What do the Irish in Ireland eat on St. Patrick’s Day then?   They do eat Irish Bacon and Cabbage, which is where the immigrants here got the idea in the first place.    For starters, the similarities doe exist when it comes to ales.   If  you want a traditional Irish St. Patrick’s Day dinner, then definitely stock your fridge with a good supply of stouts and lagers.  Perhaps some Irish whiskey could do the trick too.   That is something agreed upon on both sides of the pond.

You can start off with a traditional Irish breakfast that includes eggs sunny side up, sausage, blackpudding, baked beans, baked tomatoes,  and potatoes will fill you up enough until dinner.   

Some traditional Irish dinners include lamb or country strew, boiled bacon and cabbage, a hot pot, steak and guiness, smoked salmon and roast chicken or pheasant.    Personally, I agree with the Irish and I think corned beef and cabbage is awful.   I prefer a tea and hot muffin (English Muffin) for breakfast and fish and chips with a Red Stripe on St. Patrick’s day, but what do I know, I’m English and Scottish.  If you really intend to celebrate an authentic St. Patrick’s Day, be prepared to attend a mass service.