Get ready to dive into the world of Irish cuisine with these 18 delicious traditional fish recipes! Ireland is renowned for its fresh seafood, and it’s no surprise that fish plays a big part in many beloved dishes. From hearty stews to decadent pies, we’ve rounded up the best of the best to inspire your next cooking adventure.
In this article, you’ll discover a variety of mouth-watering options that showcase Ireland’s rich fishing heritage. Whether you’re a seafood aficionado or just looking for some new ideas to spice up your mealtime routine, these recipes are sure to please. So grab your apron, sharpen those knives, and let’s get cooking with the Emerald Isle!
Classic Irish Fish Pie
A hearty and comforting dish that’s perfect for a cold winter’s night. This Classic Irish Fish Pie is a staple of Irish cuisine, made with sustainable cod, potatoes, and onions in a rich white sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cod fillets, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Pastry dough for the crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large pan, sauté cod, potatoes, and onions in butter until the fish is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
3. Mix flour and milk to make a white sauce. Add salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine the fish mixture with the white sauce and stir well.
5. Pour the mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Roll out pastry dough to fit the top of the dish, leaving a 1-inch border.
7. Brush the edges with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Traditional Dublin Bay Prawn Chowder
This hearty and flavorful chowder is a staple of Irish cuisine, perfect for a chilly evening or as a comforting treat any time of the year. With its rich blend of prawns, potatoes, onions, and cream, you’ll be transported to the Emerald Isle with every spoonful.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Dublin Bay prawns, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add prawns and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Sprinkle flour and cook for 1 minute.
5. Gradually add milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly.
6. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
7. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pan-Fried Irish Salmon with Herb Butter
Experience the rich flavors of Ireland with this simple and elegant recipe. Pan-frying salmon fillets to a crispy perfection, then topping them with a compound butter infused with fresh herbs, makes for a delightful and impressive dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 Irish salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat.
2. Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
3. Pan-fry the salmon for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, mix together the softened butter, parsley, dill, and lemon zest.
5. Serve the cooked salmon topped with a generous pat of herb butter.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Smoked Haddock and Cabbage Stew
Smoked Haddock and Cabbage Stew
A hearty and flavorful stew that’s perfect for a chilly evening. Smoked haddock adds a rich, velvety texture to this comforting dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound smoked haddock fillets
– 2 medium cabbage heads, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chopped cabbage, smoked haddock fillets, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 10-12 minutes or until the cabbage is tender.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let stew cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Irish Seafood Chowder with Soda Bread
Warm up with a hearty bowl of Irish Seafood Chowder, served with a crusty slice of Soda Bread for dipping. This comforting recipe combines the freshness of seafood with the richness of cream and spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound mixed seafood (cod, haddock, shrimp), cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 pint fish stock (or clam juice)
– 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 seafood and cook until opaque.
3. Sprinkle flour over the mixture and stir.
4. Gradually add fish stock and heavy cream, whisking constantly.
5. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes or until soup has thickened.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Soda Bread:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Mix together 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking soda, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1 tablespoon butter.
3. Gradually add 1 cup buttermilk, stirring until a dough forms.
4. Knead for 5-7 minutes or until smooth.
5. Shape into a round loaf and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: Chowder: 10-12 minutes; Soda Bread: 35-40 minutes
Baked Cod with Irish Cheddar Crust
Elevate your cod game with a crispy, cheesy crust that’s sure to please! This simple recipe yields a flavorful and satisfying dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup Irish cheddar cheese, shredded
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, mix together Irish cheddar cheese, panko breadcrumbs, and lemon zest.
3. Place cod fillets on the prepared baking sheet. Sprinkle each fillet with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Divide the cheese mixture evenly among the cod fillets, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the top of each fillet.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cod is cooked through and crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Grilled Mackerel with Irish Whiskey Glaze
Savor the rich flavors of grilled mackerel elevated by a sweet and smoky Irish whiskey glaze.
Ingredients:
– 4 mackerel fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup Irish whiskey (such as Jameson or Tullamore DEW)
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 tsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together brown sugar, Irish whiskey, soy sauce, honey, Dijon mustard, and smoked paprika.
3. Season mackerel fillets with salt and pepper.
4. Brush the glaze on both sides of the fish during the last 2 minutes of grilling (about 8-10 minutes total).
5. Remove from heat and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Poached Trout with Irish Cream Sauce
Experience the elegance of poached trout paired with a rich and creamy sauce, infused with the subtle flavors of Irish cream.
Ingredients:
– 4 trout fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2 tbsp Irish cream liqueur (such as Baileys)
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat water to a simmering temperature.
2. Rinse the trout fillets under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a large saucepan, combine heavy cream, butter, Irish cream liqueur, and Dijon mustard.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, whisking constantly.
5. Reduce heat to low and poach the trout fillets for 8-10 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Remove the trout from the saucepan with a slotted spoon and place on a plate.
7. Serve the trout with the warm Irish cream sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Herb-Crusted Hake with Irish Butter
Savor the rich flavors of Ireland with this simple yet impressive dish, featuring crispy hake coated in a fragrant herb crust and served with a pat of creamy Irish butter.
Ingredients:
– 4 hake fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 tbsp Irish butter, softened
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together parsley, dill, olive oil, garlic, and thyme.
3. Place hake fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spoon the herb mixture evenly over each fillet.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Meanwhile, divide Irish butter into 4 portions. Top each baked hake fillet with a pat of butter.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Seafood Boxty with Fresh Herbs
Discover the delightful combination of succulent seafood and crispy boxty, infused with the freshness of herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound mixed seafood (shrimp, scallops, cod), cleaned and cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh dill
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg, beaten
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine flour, parsley, dill, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the seafood pieces to the bowl and toss until well coated with the dry mixture.
3. Beat the egg in a separate bowl, then pour it over the seafood mixture and stir until everything is well combined.
4. Divide the mixture into 4-6 portions, depending on desired boxty size.
5. Shape each portion into a ball, then flatten slightly into patties.
6. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
7. Fry the seafood boxty for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
8. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Irish Fish Cakes with Tartar Sauce
A classic Irish dish, fish cakes are a delightful combination of cod, potato, and spices, served with a tangy tartar sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb cod fillet, flaked
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and grated
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 eggs
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Tartar sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cod, potatoes, onion, eggs, flour, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
2. Shape mixture into small patties.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Fry fish cakes until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
4. Serve hot with tartar sauce.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Baked Monkfish with Irish Stout Gravy
Discover the rich flavors of Ireland with this hearty baked monkfish recipe, paired with a velvety Irish stout gravy.
Ingredients:
• 4 monkfish fillets (6 oz each)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup Irish stout beer
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 tbsp butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Season monkfish fillets with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the fillets and place on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. While the monkfish is cooking, make the Irish stout gravy:
– In a small saucepan, combine Irish stout beer and butter. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
– Gradually whisk in flour to thicken the mixture.
7. Serve baked monkfish with warm Irish stout gravy spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pan-Seared Scallops with Irish Seaweed Butter
A harmonious fusion of flavors and textures, this recipe combines tender scallops with the subtle umami taste of Irish seaweed butter. Perfect for a special occasion or a romantic dinner.
Ingredients:
– 12 large scallops
– 1/4 cup Irish seaweed butter (see note)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the scallops under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Add the scallops and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown.
5. While the scallops are cooking, prepare the Irish seaweed butter by softening it at room temperature.
6. Serve the scallops with a pat of warm Irish seaweed butter spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Note: Irish seaweed butter can be found in some specialty stores or online. If unavailable, you can substitute with regular butter and add a teaspoon of dried dulse flakes (Irish red algae) to give it a similar umami flavor.
Traditional Irish Fish Stew
A hearty and comforting fish stew that’s perfect for a cold winter’s night. This recipe is a classic representation of Irish cuisine, with tender fish and vegetables simmered in a flavorful broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb cod or haddock fillets, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of milk
– 2 cups of water
– 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the fish pieces and cook until lightly browned, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add the potatoes, milk, water, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil then reduce heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the fish is cooked through and the potatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Smoked Salmon and Potato Bake
A flavorful and comforting casserole that combines the richness of smoked salmon with the natural sweetness of potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds Yukon gold potatoes, thinly sliced
– 6 ounces smoked salmon, flaked
– 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced potatoes and flaked smoked salmon.
3. In a separate bowl, mix softened cream cheese with chopped fresh dill. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
5. Layer the potato-salmon mixture in the prepared baking dish.
6. Spread the cream cheese-dill mixture evenly over the top of the potatoes.
7. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese (if using) and season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Grilled Sea Bass with Irish Lemon Butter
A flavorful twist on traditional sea bass, this recipe combines the freshness of lemon and herbs with the richness of butter for a dish that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 4 sea bass fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh lemon slices, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, lemon juice, parsley, and dill until well combined.
3. Season sea bass fillets with salt and pepper.
4. Grill sea bass for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. During the last minute of grilling, spread Irish Lemon Butter mixture evenly over each fillet.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh lemon slices.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Deep-Fried Whiting with Irish Tartar Sauce
Experience the perfect blend of crispy and flavorful with this recipe for Deep-Fried Whiting with Irish Tartar Sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 whiting fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Irish Tartar Sauce (see below)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate dish.
3. Dip each whiting fillet into the buttermilk, coating completely, then roll in the flour mixture to coat.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry the whiting for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Remove from oil and drain on paper towels.
Irish Tartar Sauce:
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– 1/2 tsp lemon juice
Mix all ingredients together in a bowl until smooth. Serve with the deep-fried whiting.
Cod and Chorizo Irish Casserole
This hearty casserole combines the flaky goodness of cod with the smoky flavor of chorizo, all wrapped up in a creamy potato and onion base. Perfect for a cozy night in!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb cod fillet, skin removed
– 2 chorizo sausages, sliced
– 3-4 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine potatoes, onions, and butter. Toss until the vegetables are well coated.
3. In a separate pan, cook chorizo slices over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Place the cod fillet on top of the potato mixture in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Spoon the cooked chorizo slices over the cod.
6. Pour the heavy cream over the casserole.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the potatoes are golden brown and the cod is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Summary
Indulge in the rich flavors of Ireland with these 18 traditional fish recipes. From hearty stews to elegant mains, there’s something for every taste and occasion. Try classic Irish Fish Pie, Dublin Bay Prawn Chowder, or Pan-Fried Salmon with Herb Butter. Or explore more adventurous options like Smoked Haddock and Cabbage Stew, Irish Seafood Chowder, or Baked Cod with Irish Cheddar Crust. With a focus on fresh seafood and local ingredients, these recipes will transport you to the Emerald Isle without leaving your kitchen.
