This Traditional Dublin Coddle (Beef-Only Version) is an iconic Irish dish that delivers warmth, heartiness, and depth of flavor. This version uses beef sausages, beef bacon, and simple vegetables, all slow-cooked in a rich broth. It’s the perfect comfort food for a chilly day and an easy, satisfying meal for the family.
Ingredients
1 lb (450g) beef sausages (Irish-style if available)
½ lb (225g) beef bacon or smoked beef, chopped
4 large potatoes, peeled and sliced
2 large onions, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced (optional but flavorful)
2 cups beef broth
1 cup Irish stout beer (optional, adds depth)
1 tsp black pepper
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
Brown the Meat:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, I cook the beef bacon over medium heat until crispy. I remove it and set it aside. Then, in the same pot, I brown the beef sausages (either whole or cut in halves) until golden and remove them too.
Layer the Ingredients:
I layer the potatoes, onions, garlic, beef bacon, and sausages in the pot. I season with black pepper, but I avoid adding extra salt since the beef bacon already adds enough saltiness.
Add the Broth:
I pour in the beef broth and the Irish stout beer (if using). I bring everything to a gentle simmer and cover the pot with a lid.
Slow Cook:
Stovetop: I simmer everything on low for about 1.5 to 2 hours, until the potatoes are tender.
Oven: If I prefer to use the oven, I bake it at 300°F (150°C) for 2 hours.
Slow Cooker: For a completely hands-off approach, I cook it on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours.
Serve & Enjoy:
After it’s cooked, I sprinkle the dish with fresh parsley and serve it alongside Irish soda bread or crusty bread for a complete meal.
Servings and Timing
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 2 hours
Servings: 4-6
Variations
For a Thicker Broth: I sometimes mash some of the potatoes into the broth to make it thicker and creamier.
Extra Veggies: I like to add carrots or leeks for more depth of flavor and color.
For a Crispier Finish: If I want a crispy top, I broil the dish uncovered for the last 10 minutes of cooking to get a golden finish.
Storage/Reheating
I store any leftover Dublin Coddle in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a little beef broth if needed to loosen it up. It also reheats well in the microwave, but I prefer stovetop reheating for the best flavor and texture.
FAQs
How can I make Dublin Coddle without beef bacon?
If I can’t find beef bacon, I can substitute with smoked beef or even another type of smoked meat for a similar smoky flavor.
Can I use chicken sausages instead of beef sausages?
While beef sausages give the dish its signature taste, I can use chicken sausages for a lighter version. However, the flavor will be milder.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, I can make Dublin Coddle a day ahead, as the flavors improve with time. I store it in the fridge and simply reheat it before serving.
Can I freeze Dublin Coddle?
Yes, I can freeze Dublin Coddle for up to 3 months. I make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bag.
What can I serve with Dublin Coddle?
I usually serve it with Irish soda bread, but a simple crusty bread or even mashed potatoes works well to soak up the delicious broth.
Conclusion
This Traditional Dublin Coddle (Beef-Only Version) is a simple, hearty, and flavorful dish that I love to make when I want something comforting. Whether I choose to cook it on the stovetop, in the oven, or use a slow cooker, this dish delivers a satisfying meal every time. It’s the perfect recipe to enjoy with family and friends or for a cozy meal on my own.
Recipe:
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Traditional Dublin Coddle (Beef-Only Version)
Traditional Dublin Coddle is a comforting Irish dish made with beef sausages, beef bacon, and hearty vegetables. This beef-only version skips the pork but still delivers deep, savory flavors with the richness of beef broth and optional Irish stout beer. Slow-cooked to perfection, it’s the ideal meal for chilly days and family gatherings. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, it’s a satisfying and flavorful dish.
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings
Ingredients
1 lb (450g) beef sausages (Irish-style if available)
½ lb (225g) beef bacon or smoked beef, chopped
4 large potatoes, peeled and sliced
2 large onions, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
2 cups beef broth
1 cup Irish stout beer (optional, adds depth)
1 tsp black pepper
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
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Brown the Meat: In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the beef bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove it and set aside. In the same pot, brown the beef sausages until golden and remove them too.
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Layer the Ingredients: Layer the sliced potatoes, onions, garlic, beef bacon, and sausages in the pot. Season with black pepper but avoid extra salt, as the beef bacon already adds enough saltiness.
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Add the Broth: Pour in the beef broth and the optional Irish stout beer. Bring everything to a gentle simmer and cover the pot with a lid.
-
Slow Cook:
- Stovetop: Simmer on low for 1.5 to 2 hours, until potatoes are tender.
- Oven: Bake at 300°F (150°C) for 2 hours.
- Slow Cooker: Cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours.
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Serve & Enjoy: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with Irish soda bread or crusty bread.
Notes
For a thicker broth, mash some of the potatoes into the liquid.
Add extra vegetables like carrots or leeks for added flavor.
For a crispy top, broil the dish for the last 10 minutes of cooking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop, Oven, Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Irish
- Diet: Gluten Free
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4-6 servings