It’s an expectation of dull hours and duller traditions — St. Patrick’s Day is often ignored by the masses, thought to offer no chance for celebrations (beyond an excess of alcohol). Halloween steals all excitement; Christmas revels in its history and tradition. No other holiday is believed to be worthy of a party.
However, the month of March proves this to be wrong.
Choose to indulge in Irish culture with a St. Patrick’s Day event. Inspire guests with theme activities and treats. Create memories that will last throughout the year.
Success is found in flavor:
Soda Bread Satisfaction
Capture the traditions of the Emerald Isle by offering soda bread. This tasty treat — named for the unusual inclusion of sodium bicarbonate instead of yeast, which meant it was more accessible to the masses — will delight all guests. A heady flavor of caraway and buttermilk marks this the perfect compliment to any dinner. Be certain to allow yourself enough time for baking, though. A loaf can claim over an hour in the oven and will need (at least) 30 minutes to cool. Don’t make the soda bread overnight, however, as it can harden and become difficult to eat for the next day’s party. Let it be fresh and hot for a greater effect.
Cupcake Comfort
All St. Patrick’s celebrations demand easy laughter and easier tastes. Offer guests the simple pleasures of cupcakes — adorned with holiday designs. You will create an instant taste sensation with these Ireland-inspired treats. Use butter-cream icing to top each chocolate cupcake, shaping patterns of shamrocks, leprechaun faces and gold coins. Consider adding a drop of Irish cream to the cake to offer moist texture (and unbeatable flavor).
Flag Favorites
Patriotism is filled to color and such color can even be found in baking. Provide your guests with food that does more than merely satisfy — it will instead impress. Offer crisp cookies (a simple sugar base is recommended, using only vanilla extract for flavor) coated to resemble the Irish flag. Choose green, white and orange frosting to create a symbolic treat. These will be worthy additions to a St. Patrick’s Day party kit. Be careful to keep your eye on them, though — they tend to form quickly in the oven and can easily burn when not watched.
Corned Confection
Expectations define every party and no St. Patrick’s Day event can be deemed truly successful unless it’s involved corned beef and cabbage. This meal is the most anticipated and guests will wait for its arrival. The components are easy: cured meat, boiled cabbage and a careful assortment of onions, potatoes and spices. The flavors are strong, straightforward and reflect the dish’s historical beginnings. The process of creating this dish can be complicated (with 20 minutes of preparation and two hours of cooking). It is best to serve it right away — rather than letting the flavors sit for a while — so timing is vital.
No longer ignore the season. No longer deny the day. Create a St. Patrick’s event that will be enjoyed by all. Excitement can be yours — are you willing to claim it?
