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.

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 Ireland food doesn't get much better than a bowl of Irish stew. It consists 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 Irish 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). We recommend trying it 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. These types of bread are also 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. A great way to warm up after a day of exploring Northern Ireland.

With our Date With Nature package, you can enjoy an Irish Coffee with delicious shortbread in the late afternoon.

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. Visit Coq & Bull brasserie to try Northern Irish Jawbox Gin with ginger ale and yellowman for a taste of local flavours.

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'll find nothing better than freshly baked wheaten bread with a bowl of warming soup.

Visit the Coq & Bull brasserie for a taste of Northern Ireland

Looking for restaurants in Northern Ireland? Try the Coq & Bull brasserie for a taste of Northern Ireland's best dishes. Using the finest artisanal ingredients, it’s renowned for its fresh, local and seasonal dishes. It serves tasty Irish foods like steaks from Coyagh Farm and homemade Armagh apple crumble.