Clandeblog 10 traditional foods you must try in Northern Ireland
Planning a trip to Northern Ireland? From the famous Ulster fry to comforting Irish stew, you must try some of these traditional Northern Irish delicacies.
1. Ulster fry
The Ulster fry is a traditional Northern Irish breakfast dish that has become an iconic part of Northern Ireland’s cuisine. It consists of bacon, sausage, black pudding, eggs, mushrooms, tomatoes, soda bread and potato bread (fried until golden and crispy!). Guests staying at the Clandeboye Lodge can enjoy a freshly cooked Ulster fry for breakfast.
2. Belfast bap
A beloved part of Northern Irish cuisine is the Belfast bap. This large crusty but soft bread roll is traditionally filled with sausages, bacon and egg. Visit St George’s Market in Belfast for a brilliant Belfast bap with all the fillings!
3. Traditional Irish stew
Northern Irish comfort food doesn't get much better than a bowl of Irish stew! It’s made from a combination of meat and vegetables cooked together in a savoury broth. This hearty dish is perfect for chilly days.
4. Seafood
Northern Ireland offers plenty of delicious, fresh seafood. A popular seafood dish is Ulster seafood chowder, a creamy soup made with fish, potatoes and vegetables. Other local favourites include smoked salmon, scallops, and oysters. You can enjoy delicious local and seasonal seafood dishes at the Coq & Bull brasserie.
5. Fifteens
Fifteens are a traditional Northern Irish traybake - a must-try for those visiting Northern Ireland! This sweet treat is made with digestive biscuits, glace cherries, marshmallows, condensed milk and desiccated coconut. Perfect to enjoy with a wee cup of tea!
6. Champ
Champ is a delicious potato specialty made with mashed potatoes, milk, butter, and finely chopped scallions (spring onions). It’s delicious with a meat dish such as venison, beef or pork.
7. Soda bread & potato bread
Soda bread and potato bread are traditional breads that have been enjoyed in Northern Ireland for generations. Plus, there are key ingredients in the beloved Ulster fry! Soda bread is traditionally made using only four ingredients: flour, baking soda, salt, and buttermilk. Potato bread incorporates mashed potatoes into the dough, resulting in a soft texture and a distinctive taste!
8. Irish coffee
If you're visiting Northern Ireland, you must treat yourself to an Irish Coffee! This traditional hot drink is made with fresh coffee, the iconic Irish cream liqueur (Baileys), a shot of Irish whiskey and a dollop of whipped cream. It's a great way to warm up after a day of exploring Northern Ireland. As part of our Date With Nature package, you can enjoy a late afternoon Irish Coffee accompanied by luxurious shortbread. Check out our other blog which showcases local drinks to try when visiting Northern Ireland.
9. Yellowman
Another traditional food you must try in Northern Ireland is yellowman. This sweet delicacy is a type of toffee or honeycomb-like confection. It’s made by boiling sugar, vinegar, and baking soda until it turns golden brown and becomes brittle. If you're looking for a drink with local flavors, visit the Coq & Bull brasserie and try Northern Irish Jawbox Gin with ginger ale and yellowman.
10. Wheaten bread
Wheaten bread is a traditional Irish brown bread often enjoyed as a breakfast food or as an accompaniment to soups, stews, and other hearty dishes. You can’t beat a freshly baked wheaten with a bowl of warming soup.
Visit the Coq & Bull brasserie for a taste of Northern Ireland
The Coq & Bull brasserie is the perfect place to taste all that Northern Ireland has to offer. Using the finest artisanal ingredients, it’s renowned for its fresh, local and seasonal dishes. From steaks sourced from Coyagh Farm in County Tyrone, to homemade Armagh apple crumble, it offers a range of delicious Northern Irish foods.
