St. Patrick’s Day Feast: Plant-Based Dingle Pies

As St. Patrick’s Day approaches, many of us look forward to celebrating with hearty, comforting food. This year, why not take a plant-based approach to a classic Irish dish? We’ve put a fresh twist on Dingle Pie, swapping the traditional minced lamb for The Better Butchers Italian Plant-Based Ground. These savoury hand pies are perfect for your St. Patrick’s Day feast—whether you're hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy meal at home.

St. Patrick and Ireland’s Animals: A Historical Connection

Did you know that St. Patrick has several fascinating connections to animals in Ireland?

The Legend of St. Patrick and the Snakes

One of the most well-known myths about St. Patrick is that he banished all the snakes from Ireland. While historians confirm that Ireland never had native snake populations due to its climate and geography, this story is often seen as a metaphor for driving out harmful forces—which can be interpreted in many ways, including a shift toward kindness and renewal.

St. Patrick as a Shepherd

Before becoming a missionary, St. Patrick spent years as a shepherd after being captured and enslaved in Ireland. He lived among the animals, caring for them in the rugged Irish countryside. While shepherding was a key part of Ireland’s survival at the time, it also meant that St. Patrick had a deep connection to the land, the seasons, and the creatures he watched over.

A Modern Reflection: Compassion for Animals

While St. Patrick lived in a time when animal farming was essential for survival, today, we have the opportunity to celebrate his legacy in a way that honours animals with kindness. Choosing a plant-based feast—like these delicious Dingle Pies made with The Better Butchers Italian Plant-Based Ground—is a great way to enjoy the flavours of Ireland while embracing a more sustainable and compassionate future.

The Perfect St. Patrick’s Day Dish

St. Patrick’s Day isn’t just about wearing green and raising a glass—it’s also about enjoying food that celebrates Ireland’s culinary traditions. These plant-based Dingle Pies make for a fantastic meal, whether served as a main course or alongside classic sides like colcannon (mashed potatoes with cabbage) or a fresh green salad.

Plant-Based Dingle Pie Recipe

Makes: 6 hand pies Prep Time: 20 minutes Cook Time: 35 minutes

Ingredients

For the Filling:

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 1 carrot, diced small

• 1 celery stalk, diced small

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 1/2 tsp black pepper

• 1/2 tsp dried thyme

• 1/2 tsp dried rosemary

• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg (optional)

• 1 package The Better Butchers Italian Plant-Based Ground

• 1/3 cup vegetable broth

• 1/3 cup frozen peas

For the Pastry:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour

• 3/4 tsp salt

• 1/2 cup vegan butter (cold, cubed)

• 1/2 cup cold water

For the Glaze:

• 2 tbsp unsweetened plant-based milk

• 1 tbsp maple syrup or agave

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Filling

1. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté until softened (about 5 minutes).

2. Add garlic, salt, pepper, thyme, rosemary, and nutmeg. Stir for 1 minute until fragrant.

3. Add The Better Butchers Italian Plant-Based Ground and cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. Pour in vegetable broth and simmer until most of the liquid is absorbed (about 5 minutes).

5. Stir in frozen peas and remove from heat. Let cool.

Step 2: Make the Pastry

1. In a large bowl, mix flour and salt. Add cold vegan butter and rub it into the flour with your fingers until it resembles breadcrumbs.

2. Gradually add cold water, stirring until a dough forms.

3. Wrap dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 15 minutes.

Step 3: Assemble the Pies

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Roll out chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness.

3. Cut out circles (about 6 inches in diameter). Place a spoonful of filling in the centre of each.

4. Fold dough over into a half-moon shape and crimp edges with a fork.

5. Brush with plant-based milk and maple syrup mixture.

Step 4: Bake and Serve

1. Place pies on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 25–30 minutes, until golden brown.

2. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Make It a Full Irish Meal

To complete your St. Patrick’s Day spread, consider serving these pies with:

• Traditional Irish Soda Bread – A hearty, rustic bread that pairs perfectly with savoury dishes.

• A Side of Mushy Peas – A simple, classic Irish side dish.

• A Pint of Irish Stout or a Non-Alcoholic Option – For a truly festive touch.

Celebrate with a Delicious, Compassionate Meal

This St. Patrick’s Day, enjoy a meal that’s not only delicious but also cruelty-free and sustainable. Whether you're Irish or just love good food, these Plant-Based Dingle Pies will bring warmth and joy to your table.

Sláinte! 🍀