Irish
soups provide a warming, satisfying starter, or may make a meal in
themselves. Potatoes, probably Ireland's most traditional food, are used
in many dishes. Other family starters include savory pastries, such as
individual tomato and basil tarts and cheesy celery rolls.
Oyster stew is plenty delicious on its own, but
to gild the lily, add a spoonful of dry sherry to the soup just before eating. Cook a couple of extra chicken breasts and
store them in the refrigerator. Slice them on the diagonal during the week for
sandwiches, either for a quick supper (with a bowl of soup) or for an easy
brown-bag lunch.
