St. Patrick’s Day – a day for seeking out leprechauns, pinching those not wearing green, and drinking green beer at our favorite pubs, right? But do you know the real St. Patrick?
Saint Patrick’s Origin
Born Maewyn Succat in Britain, Saint Patrick (also known as Naomh Padraig in Eire) is the patron saint of Ireland. Legend has it that he was captured by the Irish when he was about 16 years old and was taken to Ireland as a slave. For 6 years he lived in Ireland until he had a dream that commanded him to return to Britain. He escaped slavery and returned to Ireland, where he studied in several monasteries. He served as a priest, deacon and bishop before being ordained by the Pope to spread the gospel. In just over 30 years, he successfully converted Ireland through his missionary work and, in the 7 th century, became the patron saint of the Green Isle.
What Did Saint Patrick Eat?
While you may think of Ireland’s fare as little more than lamb, potatoes, and stout, that isn’t the case at all! As early as the fifth century, the time when historians assume Saint Patrick was living in on the island, the Irish were creative culinary masters. Cauldrons served as the primary means of cooking in early Ireland, and coastal dwellers who relied on the abundance of fresh seafood took advantage of the pot. By tossing in fresh sea fare, seaweed, herbs and wild onions, the early residents created the first version of Irish stew. Spit roasting was also a popular cooking method – sheep, goats and pigs were raised specifically for their meat. Cows, however, were a measure of wealth, so they were rarely eaten. Ever resourceful, the animals’ blood was also used to make “black pudding” – an inexpensive food often eaten for breakfast. Even dairy products like fresh milk, butter and cheese were common. Carrageen Moss Pudding, a popular dessert, was created by mixing seaweed and milk, then adding honey and fresh fruit. Of course, Irish cuisine wouldn’t be complete without stout, and early inhabitants indulged in mead on special occasions. Made from fermented honey, water, herbs and spices, mead was often consumed during feasts.
Celebrate Saint Patrick
While the Irish still enjoy a stout and a hearty Irish stew, their cuisine is as diverse as their culture. This year as you celebrate St. Patrick’s Day, consider a great all you can eat bbq ,or some fabulous finger food . And to order a pint of Guinness to wash it all down, simply tell your bartender, “Pionta Guinness, le do thoil!”as All Suburbs Catering helps our Irish friends celebrate