Potatoes in Ireland

Potatoes are a staple food in Ireland. It can be found in almost all Irish gastronomic specialities, whether it’s the classic plate of French fries, homemade mashed potatoes, a side dish with a stew… etc. Simple and delicious, it’s part of everyday Irish gastronomy, and a regular feature on their plates… Let’s take a look back at this unusual vegetable, which has played an important role in Ireland’s past, and still does today.

History of the potato

The potato arrives in Ireland in the 16th century

Potatoes – tycoon101

The potato is a recent discovery for Europeans and Ireland. It was not discovered until 1585 by Thomas Raleigh, a British explorer and admiral who came to discover Virginia. He soon decided to introduce Europeans to this edible tuber, rich in carbohydrates and protein.

Reaction was swift, and although the potato was initially perceived as a “second-rate” food only good for pigs, it eventually won over European populations. Spain, Italy, Ireland, then France and Germany all got in on the act. Farmers all over Ireland began to grow this new vegetable, making it a staple in their diet.

The Great Irish Famine disaster

Irish Famine Memorial – Keith Ewing – cc

In less than 2 centuries, the potato has become one of the essential foods of the Irish peasantry and the lower classes. At the time, the Irish were living in a state of abject poverty, as a result of numerous British policies aimed at oppressing the Irish. Then came the Great Famine (1845-1848): all Irish potato production was affected by a parasite, mildew, which led to the inevitable rotting of the tuber.

Faced with this potato shortage, the Famine broke out: the Irish people were unable to survive and died en masse. It is estimated that between 500,000 and 1 million people died during this period. Faced with this situation, the British simply expropriated Irish families from their land if they were too poor to pay rent. This ambient misery lasted 4 years, leaving its mark on Irish history. Thousands of Irish decided to leave for the United States, while the others died one by one from this murderous famine.