Fruits

Apple varieties can vary widely from country to country, and Ireland is deeply enamored of one particular baking apple, the Bramley, a big, lumpy, misshapen green apple that is perfect for tarts or desserts. It softens beautifully without becoming mushy, and it’s very, very tart, able to stand up well to sweetening without losing its character. The best substitute that’s widely available in the United States is probably a Granny Smith.

Berries grow beautifully in the cool, damp climate of Ireland, and Irish-grown strawberries are eagerly sought out in summer. They’re smaller and naturally sweeter than the big fat California strawberries that are readily available in US grocery stores. Raspberries, red and gold, grow extremely well and plentifully, so they turn up on a lot of dessert tables, almost always served fresh, and usually with cream.