Irish Ham and Cabbage Pie is a delicious twist on the classic Irish dish, bacon and cabbage. This savory pie features a rich filling made with ham, cabbage, onions, and a creamy white sauce, all topped with golden puff pastry. It’s a hearty and comforting meal, perfect for using up leftover ham.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Meat & Veggies:

1 medium head of green cabbage (2 lb 8 oz)
2 ½ cups smoked ham, chopped
3 cups yellow onions, chopped (about 1 ½ large onions)
2 tablespoons garlic, minced
2 tablespoons salted butter

For the Gravy:

3 ½ tablespoons salted butter
5 tablespoons all-purpose flour
Scant ½ cup whole milk
Scant 1 ½ cups low-sodium chicken stock
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon ground black pepper
¾ teaspoon dried thyme leaves
¼ teaspoon ground sage

For the Pastry:

1.3 lb puff pastry
1 large egg, beaten

Directions

Making the Filling:

Remove the stem and outer leaves from the cabbage. Cut into bite-sized pieces, rinse, and boil in a large pot with 3 inches of water for 8-10 minutes until crisp-tender. Drain and rinse with cold water.
Chop the ham into bite-sized pieces and set aside.
In a skillet, sauté the onions and garlic with 2 tablespoons of butter until golden brown. Transfer to a bowl.
In the same skillet, melt 3 ½ tablespoons of butter and whisk in the flour. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
Slowly whisk in the milk, then the chicken stock. Stir until thickened, then season with salt, pepper, thyme, and sage.
Stir in the sautéed onion mixture and chopped ham. Heat through.
Add the cooked cabbage to the gravy and mix well. Spread the filling evenly into a 6-cup pie dish and let it cool.

Assembling the Pie:

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Roll out the puff pastry and cut a lid to fit the pie dish. Use extra pastry to make strips for the edges.
Brush the edge of the dish with beaten egg, attach the pastry strips, and then place the pastry lid on top. Seal the edges firmly.
Brush the entire pastry with beaten egg and cut a few vent holes.
Bake for about 35 minutes until golden brown. If the crust darkens too quickly, cover with foil.
Let the pie cool for 15 minutes before serving.

Nutrients (Per Serving)

Calories: 529 kcal
Carbohydrates: 41g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 33g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Cholesterol: 129mg
Sodium: 899mg
Potassium: 471mg
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 6g
Vitamin C: 37mg (45% DV)
Calcium: 95mg (10% DV)
Iron: 3mg (17% DV)

Enjoy this comforting Irish classic with a side of mashed potatoes or a fresh green salad! 🍀

The Origins of Irish Ham and Cabbage Pie

The traditional Irish dish of bacon and cabbage has been a staple in Irish households for centuries. Historically, the Irish diet heavily relied on pork, cabbage, potatoes, and dairy products. Bacon, usually a salt-cured pork joint, was often boiled with cabbage and served as a simple yet nourishing meal. The high availability of these ingredients and their affordability made this dish a common choice among families.

Irish Ham and Cabbage Pie is a modern adaptation that brings additional layers of texture and flavor. While the classic dish is served as a plated meal, incorporating these ingredients into a pie makes it more versatile and portable. The addition of a creamy white sauce and puff pastry transforms the humble ingredients into a dish that is both rustic and elegant.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Perfect for Leftovers: If you have leftover ham from a holiday meal or Sunday dinner, this pie is a great way to repurpose it into something new and exciting.
Rich and Flavorful: The combination of smoked ham, sautéed onions, garlic, and a creamy herbed sauce creates a deep and comforting taste.
Golden, Buttery Crust: The use of puff pastry ensures a light, flaky, and golden crust that perfectly complements the hearty filling.
Easy to Prepare: While the dish looks impressive, the process is straightforward, making it accessible even for those with limited baking experience.
Versatile: You can serve it as a standalone meal or pair it with a side salad, roasted vegetables, or mashed potatoes.

The Key Ingredients and Their Roles

Ham: The smoky, salty flavor of ham provides the main protein base for the pie. Using pre-cooked ham saves time and enhances the dish with its deep umami taste.
Cabbage: This essential component adds texture and a slightly sweet, earthy flavor that balances the richness of the ham.
Onions and Garlic: These aromatic ingredients build a flavorful base, creating depth and savoriness in every bite.
Butter and Flour: These form the base of the creamy sauce, thickening it to the perfect consistency.
Chicken Stock and Milk: These liquids create a velvety sauce that binds the filling together and enhances its rich taste.
Thyme and Sage: These herbs bring warmth and an earthy aroma that complement the ham and cabbage.
Puff Pastry: A buttery, flaky pastry crust provides a crisp and golden contrast to the creamy interior.
Egg Wash: Brushing the pastry with beaten egg ensures a beautifully browned and glossy crust.

Cooking Tips for the Best Irish Ham and Cabbage Pie

Pre-Cook the Cabbage Properly: Boiling the cabbage briefly before adding it to the pie ensures that it remains tender without becoming overly mushy.
Let the Filling Cool Before Assembling: A slightly cooled filling will help prevent the pastry from becoming soggy and ensure an even bake.
Vent the Pie: Cutting small slits in the pastry allows steam to escape, preventing the crust from puffing up unevenly.
Use Cold Puff Pastry: Keeping the pastry cold before baking helps maintain its flakiness and ensures a well-structured crust.
Egg Wash for a Golden Crust: Brushing the pastry with beaten egg gives it a glossy, golden brown finish that makes it even more appetizing.

Variations and Customizations

Add Cheese: A sprinkle of shredded cheddar or Gruyère cheese in the filling can add an extra layer of richness.
Incorporate More Vegetables: You can add carrots, leeks, or peas for added color and nutritional benefits.
Try Different Herbs: Swap out thyme and sage for rosemary or parsley for a different flavor profile.
Make It a Pot Pie: Instead of using a bottom crust, you can turn this into a pot pie by simply covering the top with puff pastry.
Use Different Pastry: If you don’t have puff pastry, you can use a homemade shortcrust pastry for a sturdier base.

How to Serve Irish Ham and Cabbage Pie

This savory pie is a complete meal on its own, but it can be paired with several side dishes for an even more satisfying experience. Here are some serving suggestions:

Mashed Potatoes: The creamy texture of mashed potatoes pairs beautifully with the rich filling of the pie.
Roasted Vegetables: Carrots, Brussels sprouts, or parsnips roasted with olive oil and herbs make a great side dish.
Simple Green Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the pie.
Pickles or Chutney: A tart or slightly sweet pickle or chutney provides a pleasant contrast to the savory flavors.

Storing and Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftover pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Freezing: You can freeze the assembled but unbaked pie for up to two months. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed.
Reheating: Warm leftover pie in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15-20 minutes until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the pastry soggy.

Conclusion

Irish Ham and Cabbage Pie is a delicious, comforting dish that transforms traditional Irish ingredients into a satisfying meal. Its flaky puff pastry crust encases a rich and creamy filling, making it perfect for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or cozy nights at home. Whether you’re using up leftover ham or simply craving a warm and hearty meal, this pie is an excellent choice. With its blend of textures, flavors, and easy adaptability, Irish Ham and Cabbage Pie is sure to become a favorite in any household. Try it today and experience the rich culinary heritage of Ireland with every bite!

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