Dublin Coddle Recipe – Classic Irish Comfort Food Made Easy

On a chilly Dublin evening, I remember sitting in my grandmother’s cozy kitchen, the aroma of sizzling sausages and bacon filling the air. It was then I first tasted Dublin Coddle, a simple yet heartwarming dish that celebrated family and tradition. Inspired by my passion for creating comforting, homemade meals at Eminent Recipes, this authentic Dublin Coddle recipe brings the flavors of Ireland right into your kitchen. Quick, hearty, and unforgettable.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Dublin Coddle is the ultimate comfort food. This recipe combines traditional Irish flavors—juicy sausages, streaky bacon, tender potatoes, and onions—into a hearty one-pot meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or hosting family, this Dublin Coddle is easy to make and customizable with additions like cabbage or Guinness. At Eminent Recipes, I emphasize dishes that are both satisfying and approachable, making this Dublin Coddle a recipe you’ll return to again and again.

Ingredients for This Recipe

Every ingredient in Dublin Coddle is selected for flavor and tradition. Irish sausages and streaky bacon provide rich, savory notes while potatoes absorb the cooking juices for a comforting texture. Onions, garlic, and optional cabbage enhance sweetness and depth. Using a bit of Guinness adds a hint of malty richness, making the stew even heartier. Fresh parsley and thyme bring aromatic freshness, balancing the bold flavors of this traditional Irish dish.

Ingredients for Dublin Coddle on countertop
Dublin Coddle Recipe – Classic Irish Comfort Food Made Easy 13

🛒 Ingredients (serves 4–6):

For the Coddle:

1 lb (450 g) Irish sausages or pork sausages
8 oz (225 g) streaky bacon, chopped
4 medium potatoes, peeled and sliced into thick rounds
2 large onions, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups (480 ml) chicken or beef stock
1 cup (240 ml) Guinness beer (optional)
1 small head of cabbage, chopped (optional)
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
1 tsp thyme
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 tbsp butter or oil for frying

How to Make This Recipe

Making Dublin Coddle is simple but requires a gentle, slow-cooked approach to develop full flavor. Start by browning the sausages and bacon to create a savory base. Layer sliced potatoes and onions over the meat, then pour in stock and Guinness if desired. Add seasonings like thyme, salt, and pepper. Cover and simmer slowly, allowing the flavors to meld. Optional cabbage can be added for texture. This Dublin Coddle is a perfect example of a traditional Irish one-pot meal that’s both hearty and flavorful.

🛒 Steps:

  1. Brown sausages in butter or oil until golden; set aside.
  2. Fry chopped bacon until slightly crispy.
  3. Sauté onions and garlic in the remaining fat until translucent.
  4. Layer potatoes, browned sausages, and bacon in a pot.
  5. Pour in stock and Guinness, season with thyme, salt, and pepper.
  6. Add chopped cabbage if desired.
  7. Cover and simmer gently for 1.5–2 hours until potatoes are tender.
  8. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot with bread.
Cooking Dublin Coddle in pot
Dublin Coddle Recipe – Classic Irish Comfort Food Made Easy 14

Expert Cooking Tips

To perfect your Dublin Coddle, use fresh, high-quality sausages and bacon. Browning the meat before layering enhances the stew’s depth. For a richer taste, a splash of Guinness adds malty undertones. Cook on low heat and avoid stirring too often to prevent potatoes from breaking apart. Day-old sausages can enhance flavor, and the dish improves after resting for a few hours, making it ideal for make-ahead meals. Fresh herbs like parsley and thyme brighten the dish before serving.

💡 Expert Tips:

  • Use high-quality Irish sausages and streaky bacon for authentic flavor.
  • Brown meat separately to maximize savory taste.
  • Slow-simmer on low heat to tenderize potatoes and meld flavors.
  • Optional Guinness adds depth and richness.
  • Resting the dish for a few hours improves taste.
  • Fresh parsley and thyme garnish enhances presentation.
Dublin Coddle variations flat lay
Dublin Coddle Recipe – Classic Irish Comfort Food Made Easy 15

FAQs

What is Dublin Coddle?

Dublin Coddle is a traditional Irish stew of sausages, bacon, potatoes, and onions, often simmered slowly to develop a hearty, comforting flavor.

Can I add cabbage or Guinness to Dublin Coddle?

Yes! Adding cabbage gives texture, and Guinness adds malty richness, creating a slightly modern twist on the traditional stew.

How long does it take to cook Dublin Coddle?

Simmering slowly for 1.5–2 hours ensures tender potatoes and infused flavors, though you can make it ahead for even richer taste.

Where can I eat authentic Dublin Coddle?

Authentic Dublin Coddle is served in Dublin pubs and traditional Irish restaurants. Look for recipes by chefs like Donal Skehan or community forums on Reddit for tips.

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Dublin Coddle is a timeless Irish recipe that combines simplicity and comfort in one pot. With juicy sausages, smoky bacon, tender potatoes, and optional additions like cabbage or Guinness, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special family meals. This easy, customizable dish celebrates tradition while fitting modern kitchens, ensuring every bite delivers warmth and satisfaction. Make this Dublin Coddle your go-to recipe for hearty, unforgettable Irish comfort food.

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Dublin Coddle served in a rustic bowl

Dublin Coddle


  • Author: Savannah
  • Total Time: ~1 hour 45 minutes
  • Yield: 46 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

A hearty and comforting traditional Irish stew made with sausages, bacon, onions, and potatoes, slowly simmered to develop rich flavors. Often served in Dublin pubs, this dish is perfect for cozy dinners or celebrating Irish heritage. Variations may include cabbage or a splash of Guinness for extra depth.


Ingredients

Scale

🛒 Ingredients (serves 4–6):

For the Coddle:

  • 1 lb (450 g) Irish sausages or pork sausages

  • 8 oz (225 g) streaky bacon, chopped

  • 4 medium potatoes, peeled and sliced into thick rounds

  • 2 large onions, sliced

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 2 cups (480 ml) chicken or beef stock

  • 1 cup (240 ml) Guinness beer (optional)

  • 1 small head of cabbage, chopped (optional)

  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

  • 1 tsp thyme

  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

  • 2 tbsp butter or oil for frying


Instructions

📝 Instructions:

Step 1: Brown the Meat

  • In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat butter or oil over medium heat.

  • Brown sausages on all sides, then remove and set aside.

  • Add bacon and fry until slightly crispy.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

  • Add onions and garlic to the pot. Cook until softened and translucent.

  • Layer the potatoes over the onions, then add the browned sausages and bacon.

Step 3: Add Liquid and Seasonings

  • Pour in stock and Guinness (if using).

  • Sprinkle thyme, salt, and pepper.

  • Add chopped cabbage if desired.

Step 4: Simmer Slowly

  • Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low.

  • Cover and simmer for 1.5–2 hours, stirring occasionally, until potatoes are tender and flavors meld.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

  • Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

  • Garnish with fresh parsley.

  • Serve hot with crusty bread or soda bread on the side.

Notes

  • Traditional Tip: Use day-old sausages and bacon for more authentic flavor.
  • Make Ahead: Coddle tastes even better the next day after flavors have developed.
  • Variation: Add carrots or leeks for extra texture and sweetness.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour 30–120 minutes
  • Category: Main Course / Irish Comfort Food
  • Method: Stovetop / Slow-Simmered
  • Cuisine: Irish

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