The 5th day of Yule, Lá na Féile (Day of Festivity), is all about celebration and indulgence. This day honors joy, abundance, and the shared merriment of the season. The feast includes dishes that are rich, flavorful, and perfect for gathering around the table with family and friends.
Recipes for Lá na Féile
Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs
Ingredients:
6 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on for extra flavor)
2 tbsp olive oil
4 tbsp unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp dried parsley
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Pat the chicken thighs dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken thighs skin-side down and cook for 6-8 minutes until the skin is golden and crispy. Flip and cook for another 6-8 minutes, then remove from the skillet and set aside.
Lower the heat and add butter to the skillet. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon the garlic butter over the thighs. Sprinkle with dried parsley and cook for an additional 5 minutes, basting frequently.
Serve hot, with extra garlic butter drizzled over the top.
Roasted Root Vegetables with Herbs
Ingredients:
2 large carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
2 parsnips, peeled and cut into chunks
1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed
3 tbsp olive oil
2 tsp fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
2 tsp fresh thyme, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a large bowl, toss the vegetables with olive oil, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Spread the vegetables in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast for 30-35 minutes, stirring halfway through, until tender and caramelized.
Serve warm as a hearty side dish.
Fried Bannocks with Honey Butter
Ingredients for Bannocks:
1 cup rolled oats
1 cup all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
1/4 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp salt
2 tbsp butter, melted
1/3 cup buttermilk (or milk with 1 tsp vinegar)
Oil or butter for frying
Ingredients for Honey Butter:
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 tbsp honey
Instructions for Bannocks:
In a bowl, mix the oats, flour, baking soda, and salt. Stir in the melted butter and buttermilk until a soft dough forms.
Roll out the dough on a floured surface to 1/4-inch thickness. Cut into rounds or wedges.
Heat a skillet over medium heat and grease lightly with oil or butter. Fry the bannocks for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.
Instructions for Honey Butter:
In a small bowl, mix the softened butter and honey until smooth. Serve alongside the bannocks.
Suggested Drink Pairing
Spiced Hot Chocolate with Whipped Cream
A rich, velvety hot chocolate spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg, topped with whipped cream and a drizzle of honey for a festive treat.
Ingredients:
2 cups whole milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup cocoa powder
1/4 cup sugar (or to taste)
1/4 tsp cinnamon
1/8 tsp nutmeg
Whipped cream and honey for topping
Instructions:
Heat the milk and heavy cream in a saucepan over medium heat until warm (do not boil).
Whisk in the cocoa powder, sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg until smooth. Continue to heat until hot.
Pour into mugs and top with whipped cream and a drizzle of honey.
Celebrate Lá na Féile with this comforting and indulgent feast, gathering loved ones to revel in the joy and abundance of the Yule season. Sláinte! 🌟