Kiss Me, I'm 1/16th Irish

by Kimberley Thompson, Tastemaker in Residence

Genetically, I can only lay claim to being 1/16 Irish by birth. But since March 17th is the great leveler of "possible" Irish ancestry, I celebrate "being Irish" in my personal Minnesotan manner. I don't pour green beer into a snow packed stein, nor do I pin a "Kiss Me I'm Irish" pin to my very German bosom. But I do relish my (preconceived) idea of a revered Irish sandwich eaten while watching "Irish" movies all snugged into my tartan Woolrich blanket!

(Yes, I do know about the tartan being more Scottish, but it is MY tradition.)

As I wait for the Reuben's to bake...I make certain my favorite spot on the sofa is prepared.
So….
Pillows....check.
Woolrich blanket....check.
Phone...do not disturb...check.
Tissues...check.
Water...check....(to stave off tear dehydration).
Lights low...check.
Movies....loaded and waiting…check.

First movie is "Darby O'Gill and the Little People."  A 1959 treasure of awkward special effects...Hollywood Irish accents...and a sweet story. Always makes me wanting to go searching for fairy rings in the fen!

The second anticipated movie is "The Quiet Man" from 1952 with John Wayne and Maureen O'Hara. He plays a retired American boxer who comes home to his roots and falls reluctantly in love with the feisty Mary Kate. Sentimental...yes. Dated...yes. Wonderful…yes.

Once the Reubens’ are ready and placed upon real china, and the tea cake tin set is close by with a waiting pot of tea...I am ready for my personal moments of being Irish.

Here's to you, Mary Ellen McCourtney, my great great-grandmother!

Two of my favorite St. Patrick's Day Recipes!

Irish Guinness Tea Cake from European Desserts Website

Kimberley's Quick Reuben for St Patrick's Day