Ah, Ireland – land of lush green landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and a love for seafood that’s simply unmatched. When it comes to cooking with fish, the Emerald Isle has a treasure trove of delicious and authentic recipes up its sleeve. From hearty stews to elegant dishes fit for a king (or queen), Irish cuisine is renowned for its bold flavors, simplicity, and use of fresh, local ingredients.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through 18 classic Irish fish recipes that are sure to tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more. From traditional fish pie to pan-fried mackerel with Irish butter, and from chowders to seafood pies, each dish is a testament to the country’s rich gastronomic heritage.
Stay tuned for a culinary adventure that will transport you to the rolling hills of Ireland, where the love for food and drink knows no bounds!
Traditional Irish Fish Pie
A classic comfort food dish that’s perfect for a cozy evening in with family and friends, this traditional Irish fish pie is a hearty and flavorful meal that’s sure to please. With its creamy mashed potato topping and tender fish filling, it’s a dish that’s both satisfying and nostalgic.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb cod or haddock fillets, skin removed
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup fish stock
– 1/4 cup butter
– 1 cup mashed potato topping (see below)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the fish fillets in boiling water for 5-7 minutes, or until cooked through.
3. In a separate pan, sauté the onion and garlic until softened. Add peas and carrots and cook for an additional minute.
4. Combine cooked fish with sautéed vegetables and fish stock. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer the fish mixture to a baking dish and top with mashed potato topping.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden brown.
Mashed Potato Topping:
– Boil diced potatoes in salted water until tender. Drain and mash with butter and milk. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Smoked Salmon Chowder
This hearty chowder is a perfect blend of smoky salmon, creamy potatoes, and tender vegetables, making it a delightful meal for any occasion. With its rich flavors and comforting warmth, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound smoked salmon, flaked
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 large potato, peeled and diced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
2. Add potato, chicken broth, and smoked salmon. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
3. Stir in heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cod and Cabbage Stew
A comforting and flavorful stew perfect for a cozy night in. This recipe combines tender cod with the sweetness of cabbage, all in a rich and savory broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cod fillets, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add cod, cabbage, carrots, broth, water, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until cod is cooked through.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pan-Fried Mackerel with Irish Butter
This recipe combines the rich flavors of mackerel with the creamy goodness of Irish butter, resulting in a dish that is both elegant and approachable. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a show-stopping main course or impressive appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 4 mackerel fillets (about 6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup Irish butter, softened
– 2 lemons, sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the mackerel under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add the mackerel fillets, skin side up (if they have skin). Cook for 4-5 minutes or until browned.
4. Flip the mackerel and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, mix the softened Irish butter with a squeeze of lemon juice.
6. Serve the pan-fried mackerel topped with the Irish butter mixture, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 12-15 minutes.
Baked Haddock with Herb Crust
This recipe offers a flavorful and moist baked haddock dish, topped with a fragrant herb crust that complements the delicate flavor of the fish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 haddock fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a small bowl, mix together parsley, dill, garlic, and lemon zest.
3. Place haddock fillets on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with herb mixture.
4. Sprinkle panko breadcrumbs evenly over the top of each fillet.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through, flaking easily with a fork.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Fish Cakes with Parsley Sauce
Enjoy the comforting flavors of traditional fish cakes elevated by a bright and zesty parsley sauce. This simple recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cod, haddock, or pollock fillet
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Parsley Sauce ingredients (below)
Parsley Sauce:
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Flake fish into small pieces and mix with onion, garlic, flour, egg, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
2. Shape mixture into patties, about 3 inches in diameter and 1 inch thick.
3. Fry patties in hot oil until golden brown and crispy, about 4-5 minutes per side.
4. Serve with Parsley Sauce made by mixing all ingredients together in a bowl.
Cooking Time: About 12-15 minutes
Seafood Boxty with Fresh Herbs
Boxty, Ireland’s national dish, gets a seafood boost with this flavorful and hearty recipe. Fresh herbs add a bright and refreshing touch to the rich flavors of shrimp, scallops, and cod.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cold butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup lukewarm water
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 pound mixed seafood (shrimp, scallops, cod)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
– Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, cold butter, and salt. Gradually add lukewarm water, stirring until dough forms.
3. Divide dough into 4-6 portions, depending on desired size of boxty.
4. Roll out each portion into a thin circle.
5. Place seafood in center of each circle, leaving a 1-inch border.
6. Fold dough over filling, forming a triangle or square shape.
7. Brush with melted butter and sprinkle with parsley and dill.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
9. Serve with lemon wedges.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Grilled Sea Bass with Irish Whiskey Glaze
This recipe combines the delicate flavor of sea bass with the rich, velvety smoothness of Irish whiskey glaze. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy dinner at home.
Ingredients:
– 4 sea bass fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup Irish whiskey
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small saucepan, combine Irish whiskey, honey, brown sugar, soy sauce, and olive oil. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Reduce heat to low and let glaze cook for 5-7 minutes or until thickened slightly.
4. Grill sea bass fillets for 4-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Brush glaze on fish during the last minute of grilling.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Poached Salmon with Dill and Cream
This recipe showcases the tender flaky texture of poached salmon, paired with the bright flavor of fresh dill and a hint of cream. Perfect for a quick yet impressive dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of water to a simmer (160°F).
2. Add the salmon fillets, making sure they are fully submerged.
3. Poach for 8-10 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, melt butter in a small saucepan over low heat.
5. Stir in heavy cream and chopped dill. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Remove the salmon from the water and serve with the creamy dill sauce spooned on top.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Fisherman’s Stew with Root Vegetables
Hearty and comforting, this stew is a perfect blend of fresh fish and tender root vegetables, slow-cooked to perfection. A warm and satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare and sure to please.
Ingredients:
• 1 lb fish (cod or haddock work well), cut into 1-inch pieces
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
• 1 large potato, peeled and diced
• 1 large parsnip, peeled and sliced
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup fish stock or water
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the fish, carrots, potato, parsnip, onion, and garlic.
2. Pour in the fish stock or water, and add the thyme.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Fried Whiting with Tartar Sauce
Whiting’s delicate flavor shines when paired with a crispy exterior and creamy tartar sauce. This simple recipe yields a delicious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 whiting fillets (about 6 oz each)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Tartar sauce ingredients: 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon chopped pickle relish, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each whiting fillet in the buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry whiting for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Drain on paper towels.
6. Mix tartar sauce ingredients together in a small bowl. Serve with fried whiting.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Herring in Oatmeal with Lemon Butter
This Scandinavian-inspired dish is a perfect blend of textures and flavors, featuring tender herring fillets cooked in a creamy oatmeal mixture and finished with a zesty lemon butter.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 herring fillets (about 6 oz each), rinsed and patted dry
– 2 lemons, juiced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the oats and water to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes.
2. Add the butter to the oatmeal mixture and stir until melted.
3. Place the herring fillets in the oatmeal mixture and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, mix lemon juice with softened butter until well combined.
5. Serve the herring with the lemon butter spooned over the top. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Seafood Pie with Puff Pastry
This seafood pie recipe combines the freshness of seafood with the flakiness of puff pastry, perfect for a cozy dinner or brunch. With minimal prep time and effortless assembly, you’ll be enjoying a satisfying meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1 lb mixed seafood (shrimp, scallops, cod), cooked and flaked
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 eggs, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine seafood, butter, flour, and salt. Mix well.
3. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
4. Spoon the seafood mixture onto one half of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border.
5. Fold the other half over the filling, pressing edges to seal.
6. Brush with beaten eggs and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Serve warm, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Baked Trout with Garlic and Thyme
This recipe showcases the beauty of trout, elevated by the pungency of garlic and the earthiness of thyme. With minimal preparation and a short cooking time, this dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 trout fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place trout fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the trout, followed by minced garlic and dried thyme.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until trout is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Smoked Haddock and Potato Bake
A flavorful and comforting casserole perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. Smoky haddock pairs perfectly with tender potatoes, all wrapped up in a crispy, golden-brown crust.
Ingredients:
– 4 smoked haddock fillets (approx. 120g each)
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced potatoes, onion, and garlic.
3. Arrange the haddock fillets on top of the potato mixture.
4. Sprinkle cheddar cheese over the haddock.
5. Mix breadcrumbs with olive oil and sprinkle evenly over the top.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Fish and Chips with Irish Ale Batter
This classic pub-style dish gets a boost from the rich flavor of Irish ale in the batter, making it perfect for a cozy night in. With a simple recipe and minimal ingredients, you’ll be enjoying crispy, golden fish and chips in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound white fish (cod or haddock work well), cut into chunks
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup Irish ale (Guinness or Smithwick’s work well)
– 1/2 cup water
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Salt and vinegar to taste
– Optional: lemon wedges and malt vinegar for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, Irish ale, and water until smooth.
2. Dip fish chunks into the batter, coating evenly.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
4. Fry battered fish for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Remove from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
6. Serve hot with salt, vinegar, lemon wedges, and malt vinegar (if desired).
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes.
Seafood Gratin with Irish Cheddar
This seafood gratin recipe combines the freshness of ocean-caught seafood with the richness of Irish cheddar, resulting in a dish that’s sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound mixed seafood (shrimp, scallops, cod), rinsed and patted dry
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup grated Irish cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add seafood and cook until pink and just cooked through, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Sprinkle flour over seafood and cook for an additional minute.
4. Gradually add heavy cream, whisking continuously, until the mixture thickens slightly.
5. Transfer seafood mixture to a baking dish, top with Irish cheddar cheese, and sprinkle with parsley.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
Lobster and Prawn Irish Stew
This hearty stew is a twist on the classic Irish recipe, adding luxurious lobster and prawns to the traditional mix of potatoes, carrots, and onions. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb lobster meat
– 1/2 cup prawns, peeled and deveined
– 2 medium potatoes, diced
– 1 large carrot, peeled and sliced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion, carrot, and garlic until tender.
2. Add the diced potatoes, lobster meat, prawns, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a taste of Ireland’s coast with these 18 classic fish recipes! From hearty stews and chowders to decadent pies and indulgent dishes, this collection has something for every palate. Try your hand at traditional Irish Fish Pie, or opt for the bold flavors of Smoked Salmon Chowder. Or perhaps you’d prefer the simplicity of Pan-Fried Mackerel with Irish Butter? Whatever your taste buds desire, these recipes are sure to transport you to the Emerald Isle’s picturesque coastlines.
