Fermanagh Crowdieé

Introduction to Fermanagh Crowdieé

Fermanagh Crowdieé is a traditional dish that hails from the lush pastures of County Fermanagh, Ireland. This rustic recipe has been passed down through generations, intertwining the rich dairy culture of the region with the culinary traditions of Irish cuisine. The heart of this dish lies in its main ingredient, crowdie, a soft cheese that embodies the freshness of the region's milk. The dish is often enjoyed during special occasions yet holds a simplicity that makes it a comforting everyday meal.

History

The origins of Fermanagh Crowdieé are closely linked to the agrarian lifestyle of historic Ireland. Crowdie, the cheese central to this recipe, was traditionally made in most countryside homes, allowing families to make the most of milk produced by their livestock. The name ‘crowdie’ refers to multiple soft, fresh cheeses found throughout Scotland and Ireland, but each region lends its version a unique twist. In County Fermanagh, this cheese found a special place, combined with locally sourced ingredients to create the dish that is now known as Fermanagh Crowdieé. Crowdieé is typically enjoyed during harvest festivals or as part of larger celebratory feasts, symbolizing abundance and community.

Ingredients

• Crowdie Cheese - 200g
• Potatoes - 500g
• Onions - 2 medium-sized
• Garlic - 3 cloves
• Butter - 50g
• Cream - 100ml
• Fresh Thyme - a handful
• Salt - to taste
• Black Pepper - to taste
• Olive Oil - 2 tablespoons

Preparation

Preparing the Potatoes

Begin by peeling and thinly slicing the potatoes. It is crucial to ensure the slices are even for them to cook uniformly. Rinse the sliced potatoes under cold water to remove excess starch, ensuring a fluffy texture once baked.

Preparing the Onions and Garlic

Peel and finely slice the onions and garlic. The aroma of sautéing onions and garlic is essential to the dish, providing a sweet and savory base.

Cooking Process

Sautéing

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions and sauté until they become translucent and begin to caramelize, approximately 10 minutes. Add the garlic and continue to sauté for another minute until fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside.

Layering the Dish

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a baking dish with butter. Begin layering with a single layer of potato slices. Add a layer of sautéed onions and garlic, sprinkle with fresh thyme, salt, and black pepper. Add small dollops of crowdie cheese over this layer. Repeat the layering process until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of potatoes topped with a generous amount of cream and butter.

Baking

Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for approximately 45 minutes or until the potatoes are tender. Remove the foil and continue to bake for an additional 15 minutes, allowing the top to become golden and crisp. You can set a cooking timer to keep track of the baking time.

Serving Suggestions

Once the Fermanagh Crowdieé is done baking, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Pair this hearty dish with a fresh green salad and a slice of crusty bread. It also complements well with a glass of chilled white wine, enhancing the creaminess and depth of flavors in the dish. For an authentic Irish experience, enjoy it surrounded by friends and family, reflecting on the rich history of this time-honored tradition.