The 6th day of Yule, Lá na Dúthrachta (Day of Devotion), centers on dedication to your loved ones and commitments. This day’s feast is hearty and comforting, symbolizing the strength and loyalty we share with our chosen kin. The menu features a flavorful beef dish, a nourishing vegetable side, and a crispy potato bread to bring everyone together.
Recipes for Lá na Dúthrachta
Ground Beef Cottage Pie
Ingredients:
1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, diced
2 carrots, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 cup beef broth
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp fresh thyme (or 1/2 tsp dried)
1 tsp fresh rosemary (or 1/2 tsp dried)
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Mashed Potatoes:
3 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
3 tbsp butter
1/4 cup milk or cream
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Boil the potatoes in salted water until tender (about 15 minutes). Drain, mash with butter and milk, and season with salt and pepper. Set aside.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, sauté the onion and carrots until softened. Add the garlic and tomato paste, cooking for another minute.
Return the beef to the skillet, stir in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and rosemary. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, until slightly thickened. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Transfer the beef mixture to a baking dish. Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the top, creating peaks with a fork.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and slightly crispy. Serve hot.
Roasted Broccoli with Lemon and Garlic
Ingredients:
1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets
3 tbsp olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
Zest of 1 lemon
Juice of 1/2 lemon
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Toss the broccoli florets with olive oil, garlic, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Spread them out on a baking sheet.
Roast for 15-20 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the edges are crispy and slightly browned.
Drizzle with lemon juice before serving.
Crispy Potato Farls
Ingredients:
2 large potatoes, peeled and boiled
1/2 cup all-purpose flour (plus more for dusting)
1/4 tsp salt
1 tbsp butter
Oil or butter for cooking
Instructions:
Mash the boiled potatoes until smooth and allow to cool slightly.
Mix in the flour, salt, and butter until a soft dough forms.
Dust your surface with flour and roll the dough out to about 1/4-inch thickness. Cut into triangles.
Heat a griddle or skillet over medium heat and grease lightly with oil or butter. Cook the potato farls for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden and crispy.
Serve warm with butter or as an accompaniment to the meal.
Suggested Drink Pairing
Honey-Spiced Mead (Non-Alcoholic Option Available)
A traditional Yule drink, either brewed or non-alcoholic, warmed with cinnamon, cloves, and a hint of orange.
Ingredients (Non-Alcoholic Version):
4 cups apple cider
2 tbsp honey
1 cinnamon stick
4 whole cloves
1 orange, sliced
Instructions:
Combine all ingredients in a saucepan and heat gently, ensuring it doesn’t boil.
Simmer for 15-20 minutes, then strain and serve warm.
Celebrate Lá na Dúthrachta with this rich and hearty feast, perfect for gathering loved ones and dedicating yourself to the strength of your bonds. May your Yule season be filled with warmth and devotion! 🌟