Traditional Irish Roast Chicken with Thyme and Onion Stuffing
Farmers To Market
farmerstomarket.ie
https://www.farmerstomarket.ie
Since the 1800's, the Smith Family has farmed the same lands, nestled between lakeland and rich forestry in the North-East of Ireland.
Farmer to Market in Ireland
In Ireland, the concept of "Farmer to Market" is very popular and reflects a direct and sustainable approach to selling agricultural products. It involves farmers selling their products directly to consumers, often through local markets, fairs, or agricultural cooperatives. This helps promote local produce, ensures freshness, and strengthens the bond between producers and consumers. Here are some examples of markets and initiatives in Ireland:
-
Local Farmers' Markets: Many towns and villages in Ireland host weekly farmers' markets where local producers sell their goods directly to consumers. Some of the most well-known markets include:
- Temple Bar Food Market in Dublin.
- Cork City Farmers Market.
- Limerick Milk Market.
-
Cooperatives: Certain areas in Ireland, such as Ballyhoura Development, encourage local producers to come together in cooperatives to sell their products, often via direct-to-farm sales or local distribution points.
-
Direct Sales Initiatives: The Irish government also supports initiatives such as "Taste of West Cork", an organization that helps local producers reach broader markets while promoting regional products.
-
Farm-to-Table: Ireland has seen a growth in restaurants and cafes that prioritize locally-sourced produce. These establishments buy directly from farmers to ensure freshness and support the local economy.
-
Agri-tourism: Some farms in Ireland offer tours where visitors can learn about the production process, purchase products directly from the farm, or even participate in cooking workshops with local ingredients.
The "Farmer to Market" approach is thriving in Ireland and is supported by consumers who increasingly prefer fresh, sustainable, and locally sourced products.
Traditional Irish Roast Chicken with Thyme and Onion Stuffing
A comforting and flavorful classic, perfect for a family dinner or gathering with friends.
Ingredients
For the roast chicken:
- 1 free-range whole chicken
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- Salt and freshly ground white pepper
For the stuffing:
- 100 g stale bread, broken into pieces
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 small onion, quartered
- 50 g softened butter
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
Preparation
1. Prepare the stuffing
In a food processor, blend the bread, parsley, thyme, onion, butter, salt, and pepper until smooth.
2. Stuff the chicken
Fill the chicken cavity with the prepared stuffing.
Secure with kitchen string or toothpicks to keep the stuffing in place during roasting.
3. Prepare the garnish
Place the chopped carrots, onion, and celery in a large roasting pan.
Drizzle the vegetables with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Roast the chicken
Place the stuffed chicken on top of the vegetables, breast side up.
Roast in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F).
Baste the chicken with its juices every 20 minutes to keep it moist.
Cook for approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until the juices run clear when the thigh is pierced with a knife.
5. Serve
Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before carving.
Serve with the roasted vegetables and reduced pan juices.
Ideas to elevate this recipe
1. Variations for the stuffing
- Gourmet Irish: Add smoked bacon bits or dried apples for a sweet-savory twist.
- Autumn flavors: Incorporate chestnuts or chopped walnuts into the stuffing.
- Rustic stuffing: Replace bread with oats or barley for a nod to traditional rural Irish cuisine.
2. Side dish suggestions
- Mashed potatoes with salted butter: Pair with rustic mashed potatoes for a comforting meal.
- Braised cabbage with beer: Add an Irish touch with cabbage slowly cooked in dark beer.
- Homemade thyme and garlic gravy: Use the chicken drippings to create a rich, flavorful sauce.
3. Presentation
- Serve on a rustic wooden platter for a cozy effect.
- Garnish with sprigs of fresh thyme and slices of garlic toast.
- Pair with a glass of white wine or artisanal cider to complete the experience.
Would you like additional ideas or help with menu creation around this dish?
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Farmers To Market
farmerstomarket.ie
https://www.farmerstomarket.ie
Since the 1800's, the Smith Family has farmed the same lands, nestled between lakeland and rich forestry in the North-East of Ireland.
Farmer to Market in Ireland
In Ireland, the concept of "Farmer to Market" is very popular and reflects a direct and sustainable approach to selling agricultural products. It involves farmers selling their products directly to consumers, often through local markets, fairs, or agricultural cooperatives. This helps promote local produce, ensures freshness, and strengthens the bond between producers and consumers. Here are some examples of markets and initiatives in Ireland:
-
Local Farmers' Markets: Many towns and villages in Ireland host weekly farmers' markets where local producers sell their goods directly to consumers. Some of the most well-known markets include:
- Temple Bar Food Market in Dublin.
- Cork City Farmers Market.
- Limerick Milk Market.
-
Cooperatives: Certain areas in Ireland, such as Ballyhoura Development, encourage local producers to come together in cooperatives to sell their products, often via direct-to-farm sales or local distribution points.
-
Direct Sales Initiatives: The Irish government also supports initiatives such as "Taste of West Cork", an organization that helps local producers reach broader markets while promoting regional products.
-
Farm-to-Table: Ireland has seen a growth in restaurants and cafes that prioritize locally-sourced produce. These establishments buy directly from farmers to ensure freshness and support the local economy.
-
Agri-tourism: Some farms in Ireland offer tours where visitors can learn about the production process, purchase products directly from the farm, or even participate in cooking workshops with local ingredients.
The "Farmer to Market" approach is thriving in Ireland and is supported by consumers who increasingly prefer fresh, sustainable, and locally sourced products.