Welcome to vegan Irish food: 5 recipes for St. Patrick’s Day

It’s that time of year again!

As you gear up to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day this weekend, you might be on the prowl for plant-based versions of classic Irish dishes. And, as the luck of the Irish would have it, Love Veg has you covered.

While Irish food has traditionally centered around heavy meats and dairy-based creams, the plant-based movement is giving Irish food a modern overhaul. Soda bread, vegetable stews, and cabbage are the stars of the show…and none require animal cruelty, gut-busting ingredients, or environmental harm. 

Here’s how you can get a taste of the Emerald Isle without sacrificing your health and values. 

Vegan Irish stew

This hearty, plant-based stew is rich, comforting, and packed with deep, savory flavors. Inspired by traditional Irish stew, this plant-based version comes from Sam Turnbull, the creator behind It Doesn’t Taste Like Chicken.

Vegan Irish mashed potatoes (colcannon)

This vegan Irish colcannon is a plant-based take on the Irish mashed potato dish, replacing dairy with coconut milk and vegan butter. Sautéed Brussels sprouts, leeks, and garlic add flavor, making it a hearty, comforting side. Recipe by Chow Vegan.

Vegan Irish Soda Bread

This vegan Irish soda bread from Namely Marly replaces dairy and eggs with plant-based milk and vegan butter, keeping the texture hearty and the crust crisp. Orange zest and raisins add a subtle sweetness. 

Vegan Irish hand pies

These vegan Irish hand pies come from Vaishali Honawar–creator of Holy Cow! Vegan–who is known for her approachable plant-based comfort food. Flaky and golden, they’re filled with potatoes, cabbage, lentils, and aromatics, all wrapped in a buttery crust.

Irish corned cabbage

This Irish corned cabbage recipe comes from Vegan Heritage Press, a publishing company bringing plant-based recipes to home cooks. Served with a zesty horseradish mayo, this hearty, comforting meal pays tribute to Irish tradition—without the meat.

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