Bacon and cabbage

Bacon and cabbage is a cherished traditional Irish dish, prepared by boiling slices of back bacon with cabbage and potatoes. Often, it's served with some of the savory boiling liquid and complemented by a side of white sauce. This robust, comforting meal is a cornerstone of Irish cuisine and evokes a sense of home.

The type of bacon used can vary, but it is typically cured and may be either smoked or home-cured, depending on personal preference.

Historically, bacon and cabbage became a common meal in Irish households due to the easy availability of its ingredients. Many Irish families cultivated their own vegetables and raised pigs, making this dish both nourishing and satisfying. Today, it remains a popular meal in Ireland.

When Irish immigrants came to the United States, they frequently substituted corned beef for bacon, giving rise to the now-famous corned beef and cabbage. This variation has become a beloved dish, especially around St. Patrick’s Day. In Newfoundland and Labrador, a similar dish known as Jiggs' dinner features salted beef and has roots in Irish and English culinary traditions.