Saint Patrick's day @ the club ...... 03/17 & 03/18

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  Originated IN the United States in the 19th century and is NOT a traditional Irish dish, the connection with St Patrick's Day specifically originates as part of Irish-American culture. 

How it Originated

· Irish immigrants in New York City noticed that corned beef was cheaper than bacon (which was traditional in Ireland), and that cabbage was readily available in America

· The immigrants combined the two ingredients to create a hearty meal that reminded them of home.

Other Facts

· Its roots are in Eastern Europe, where Jews would cure beef with "corns" of salt. 

· It was popular among working class Americans of all ethnicities in the 19th century. 

· Today, it is usually only eaten around St. Patrick's Day in the US. 

  Shepherd’s pie IS actually an Irish distinction. It has as much claim to Ireland as any other food out there. As it has a long history that dates back to the late 18th century. 

Its Origins 

Its origin is believed to be in the United Kingdom, particularly in Scotland and northern England.

Culmination

People have always tried to get as much mileage as possible out of their food; from its packaging to storage preventing spoilage ensuring nothing went to waste.  

The adeptness of making use of leftover food remains critical to the poor. When the ability to get more is restricted, getting the most from what you have is imperative.

 Thus, this dish was made using leftover roasted meat, combined with vegetables and topped with mashed potatoes. 

As a frugal and practical way for shepherds and rural communities to use their available ingredients and avoid waste. The mashed potato topping conveniently stretched the dish as a hearty and satisfying meal. 

  Nowadays, deviations of shepherd’s pie can be found all around the world, and the type of meat used can vary. For instance, in the United States and some other regions, the dish is made with ground beef.

However, the primary ingredients of the dish remain consistent: a meat and vegetable filling topped with mashed potatoes and baked until it is a golden delicacy.