Taste Ireland in Querrien : Guinness beef recipe brings Celtic flavors home

Taste Ireland in Querrien : Guinness beef recipe brings Celtic flavors home

Querrien, a charming town in Brittany, France, recently hosted a delightful event that brought a taste of Ireland to its residents. The local twinning committee organized a Guinness beef feast that not only satisfied culinary cravings but also served as a fundraiser for an upcoming trip to the Emerald Isle. This gastronomic gathering highlighted the strong cultural ties between Querrien and its Irish twin town, Dunmore, while whetting appetites for the impending journey.

A feast of Irish flavors in Querrien

The Guinness beef event drew an impressive crowd, with 134 meals served, including 27 takeaway orders. This popular dish, known for its rich flavors and tender meat, perfectly encapsulates the essence of Irish cuisine. The success of the feast demonstrates the community’s enthusiasm for cultural exchange and their appreciation for international culinary experiences.

To complement the main course, attendees were treated to a selection of Irish-inspired desserts and the quintessential Irish coffee. This warm, whiskey-laced beverage provided the perfect finale to a hearty meal, offering a true taste of Ireland’s comforting drinks.

Adding to the festive atmosphere, local musicians Patrick Gourlay and Jo Prat, both long-standing members of the twinning committee, entertained diners with traditional Irish songs. Their performances enhanced the authentic Irish experience, transporting guests to the lively pubs of Dublin and Galway without leaving Querrien.

Fundraising for a Celtic adventure

The Guinness beef event served a dual purpose: to celebrate Irish culture and to raise funds for an exciting upcoming trip. Sylvie Perez, co-president of the twinning committee, shared that 27 participants, including five teenagers, are set to embark on a journey to Ireland from April 12th to 20th.

The proceeds from this successful event will contribute significantly to financing the trip, making it more accessible for all participants. This approach to fundraising not only supports the travel plans but also strengthens community bonds through shared experiences and goals.

Here’s a breakdown of the trip’s participants:

  • 22 adults
  • 5 teenagers
  • Total: 27 travelers

Exploring the Emerald Isle

The itinerary for the Irish adventure promises a diverse and enriching experience. Maryse Toulgoat, another co-president, revealed that the group plans to spend two days discovering Achill Island, the largest island off the coast of Ireland. Located in County Mayo on the west coast, Achill Island offers breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and unique cultural experiences.

Some highlights of Achill Island include:

  1. Keem Bay, a picturesque horseshoe-shaped beach
  2. The Deserted Village, a haunting reminder of Ireland’s past
  3. Kildavnet Castle, a 15th-century tower house
  4. The Atlantic Drive, offering stunning coastal views

While the Achill Island portion of the trip is set, the remainder of the itinerary will be curated by the twinning committee in Dunmore. This collaborative approach ensures that visitors from Querrien will experience authentic Irish hospitality and gain insider knowledge of the local area.

Savoring Irish cuisine: Guinness beef recipe

For those inspired by Querrien’s Guinness beef event and eager to bring a taste of Ireland into their own homes, here’s a simple recipe to try:

Ingredients Instructions
  • 1 kg beef chuck, cubed
  • 2 onions, chopped
  • 2 carrots, sliced
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 500 ml Guinness stout
  • 500 ml beef broth
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 2 tbsp flour
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh thyme
  1. Brown the beef in a large pot
  2. Add vegetables and cook until softened
  3. Stir in flour, then add Guinness and broth
  4. Add tomato paste and seasonings
  5. Simmer for 2-3 hours until beef is tender
  6. Serve with mashed potatoes or crusty bread

This hearty dish captures the essence of Irish comfort food and pairs perfectly with a pint of Guinness or a glass of robust red wine. By preparing this meal at home, Querrien residents and Irish enthusiasts alike can keep the spirit of cultural exchange alive between visits to the Emerald Isle.

Nurturing international friendships

Events like the Guinness beef feast in Querrien exemplify the power of food and culture in fostering international relationships. The twinning committee’s efforts go beyond mere tourism; they create lasting bonds between communities, encourage language exchange, and promote mutual understanding.

As the Querrien group prepares for their Irish adventure, they carry with them not just the excitement of travelers, but the warmth of a community that has embraced Irish culture. Their journey will undoubtedly strengthen the ties between Querrien and Dunmore, paving the way for future exchanges and shared experiences.

The success of the Guinness beef event and the anticipation surrounding the upcoming trip demonstrate that cultural diplomacy can thrive at a grassroots level. Through food, music, and travel, the residents of Querrien are building bridges across the Celtic Sea, one delicious meal at a time.

Clara Byrne
Scroll to Top