When it comes to Irish comfort food, few dishes are as warming, hearty, and steeped in tradition as Dublin Coddle. This centuries-old meal combines sausages, bacon, potatoes, carrots, and onions, slowly simmered in a rich broth until everything is tender and full of flavor.
It’s rustic, homely, and perfect for feeding family and friends on a chilly evening in Ireland. If you haven’t tried it yet, you’re in for an absolute treat.
What is Dublin Coddle?
The word coddle comes from the French term caudle, meaning “to gently boil or stew.” Unlike a stew where everything is tossed together, a coddle is cooked in layers — onions, bacon, sausages, vegetables, and potatoes, all simmered in stock until meltingly tender.
The dish dates back to the late 1700s and was often made with whatever was on hand: leftover sausages, rashers, or root vegetables. It became a staple in Dublin homes because it was affordable, filling, and could be left to gently cook all day.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need for a proper Dublin Coddle (serves 6):
- 2 medium yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 2 medium leeks, thinly sliced and rinsed
- 12 oz (340g) thick-cut bacon (or traditional Irish rashers), cut into chunks
- 8 Irish banger sausages (or bratwursts as a substitute)
- 2 large carrots, peeled and sliced into thick half-moons
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 lbs (about 6 medium) Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 6–7 cups chicken stock (or beef/vegetable stock)
- 2–3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted (for finishing)
- Salt & freshly cracked black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Method
- Cook the bacon
In a large Dutch oven, fry the bacon until crisp. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside. - Sear the sausages
In the rendered bacon fat, brown the sausages on both sides. Don’t cook them through — they’ll finish later. Set aside. - Caramelize the onions & leeks
Add onions and leeks to the pot. Season lightly with salt and cook until golden and softened, scraping up the browned bits for maximum flavor. - Add garlic & carrots
Stir in garlic and cook until fragrant (30 seconds), then add carrots and sauté for 4–5 minutes until slightly browned. - Layer the coddle
Return the bacon to the pot, arrange sausages on top, then pour in stock. Season with salt and pepper. - Top with potatoes
Neatly layer the sliced potatoes across the top, fanning them out if you like. Season lightly again. - Slow cook
Cover and simmer on low heat for 35–40 minutes (or longer if you prefer). Traditionally, it would be left to cook gently all day. - Optional oven finish
Brush the top with melted butter and bake at 450°F (230°C) for 15–20 minutes to crisp up the potato topping.
Serving Dublin Coddle
Serve piping hot, straight from the pot, garnished with fresh parsley. The best accompaniment? Thick slices of Irish soda bread to soak up the rich, savory broth.
Why You’ll Love It
- Deep flavor: Slow cooking brings out every ounce of flavor from the bacon, sausage, and broth.
- Affordable: Uses simple, everyday ingredients.
- Comforting: Hearty, warm, and perfect for sharing.
- Traditional: A true taste of Dublin history in every spoonful.
Dublin Coddle is more than just a dish — it’s a piece of Irish heritage, a recipe born from resourcefulness that has stood the test of time. Make it once, and it might just become the Irish meal you can’t stop eating too!
Other Dishes to try:
Secure Your Dream Irish Experience Before It’s Gone!
Planning a trip to Ireland? Don’t let sold-out tours or packed attractions spoil your journey. Iconic experiences like visiting the Cliffs of Moher, exploring the Rock of Cashel, or enjoying a guided walk through Ireland’s ancient past often sell out quickly—especially during peak travel seasons.
Booking in advance guarantees your place and ensures you can fully immerse yourself in the rich culture and breathtaking scenery without stress or disappointment. You’ll also free up time to explore Ireland’s hidden gems and savour those authentic moments that make your trip truly special.
Make the most of your journey—start planning today and secure those must-do experiences before they’re gone!