feature SEASONAL
BY DEBBIE EISELE
Celebrate St.Patrick’s Day
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y grandfather came from Ireland, so of course I am one of the Irish-American citizens who likes to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day. Although my grandfather passed away prior to my birth, I know I would have questioned him on what it was like to celebrate this day in Ireland. What is different from the celebrations here and there? Since I have an innate curiosity, I researched the topic and wanted to share my findings with you, as well as a few recipes. Around the 18th century Ireland began celebrating one particularly important person in their history, Saint Patrick. The celebrations were not glamorous or exciting – there was no dying beer or rivers green; it simply was a small, religious holiday.
{ MARCH 2018 |
WARRENTON LIFESTYLE
}
Try some
IRISH FARE
Potato Scones
Potato scones, or potato pancakes as some may call them, are a delicious option no matter the day or month. This side dish is a perfect way to enjoy a little Irish cuisine. Just make sure your mashed potatoes are thick. If not, they do not cook as well and break apart, or may become runny. For all you potato lovers out there these scones are great with breakfast, lunch or dinner. For this recipe you will need a biscuit cutter, or glass, solid surface (counter or cutting board), hand masher, and bowl. INGREDIENTS 3 cups mashed potatoes ½ cup all-purpose flour 3 to 4 tablespoons butter, or butter substitute ¼ cup finely diced onions ¼ teaspoon salt (or to taste) pepper (to taste) pinch garlic powder (optional) ½ to 1 egg (depends on the size eggs. For larger eggs use about ½ an egg and add more if necessary)
DIRECTIONS 1. Place mashed potatoes in a large bowl. Then add approximately ¼ cup of the flour; reserve the rest of the flour for later. 2. Next, add the finely diced onion and fold into the mashed potatoes. Then add the salt and pepper to taste. 3. Now combine all the ingredients by either folding together with large spoon, or try using a hand potato masher gently to mix the potato and spices. 4. Melt approximately 2 tablespoons of butter and add it to the mixture, along
with half of a beaten egg. Remember the mashed potatoes need to have a fairly thick consistency, so do not add too much liquid to the mixture. 5. Mix up the potatoes into balls, adding flour as necessary to ensure the form holds together. 6. Flatten the potatoes to about a ½ inch thickness. 7. Use a glass, biscuit cutter, or free-hand a design to cut the dough into smaller circles. 8. Melt the remaining butter in a large frying pan or skillet (add more if necessary as you start cooking). 9. Turn your burner to medium low heat and place your scones in the pan. Leave about an inch or inch and a half between the scones so you can flip them easily. 10. Cook the potatoes for approximately 7-9 minutes per side – this may vary depending on the type of stove and skillet you are using. The goal is to obtain a nice golden brown crust formed on each side of the scone/pancake.
Recipe adapted from irishamericanmom.com/2012/10/20/irish-potato-cakes
Ironically, St. Patrick was not from Ireland; he was British and led a very difficult life. He was kidnapped, sold into slavery and brought to Ireland against his will. Irish history indicated St. Patrick escaped this terrible fate and made it back to his homeland, only to return to Ireland – this time as a missionary. He believed God called on him to serve the people there. Saint Patrick died on March 17, and after his death he was named the patron saint of Ireland. This led to the first celebrations of St. Patrick’s Day in that country. In the 19th century more Irish immigrants came into the U.S, which increased the number of celebrations around the country. Towards the end of the 20th century, many nonIrish individuals began to join in the fun, making it a jovial day; no matter your heritage. Traditions such as green beer, leprechauns, green rivers, and of course food are welcomed by just about everyone, and may have attributed to the surge of participants (even those who are not Irish) in this annual jubilee. Even school teachers have been known to engage in the day and “experience” mischievous pranks caused by leprechauns inside their classrooms. Some families have endured leprechaun pranks as well: green toilet water, green dust, unexplained messes, and other such instances. Whether or not you are Irish, this St. Patrick’s Day enjoy the day – at home or out on the town. Our area offers several places with an Irish flair; perfect for you to try. If you celebrate at home, try this recipe or the one on the next page from Molly’s Irish Pub. Remember to stay safe and have fun.