For each petal on the shamrock
This brings a wish your way-
Good health, good luck and happiness
For today and every day.
(Irish blessing)

There’s something about St. Patrick’s Day that makes everyone Irish. It has been tradition since Dennis and I got married that we have cooked a corned beef and cabbage meal on this day. When we lived in Chicago, my in-laws were always part of our St. Patrick’s celebration. Since moving, we’ve entertained friends or kept it simple by just cooking for the four of us.

The last several years, I’ve been using my crock pot to cook the corned beef. I buy the brisket that includes the seasoning packet and let it go all day on the low setting. Sometimes I will add cabbage and potatoes to the crock pot as well or I just boil them separately. I love making this meal because it is so easy to prepare.

I have tried to make Irish soda bread, but was not satisfied with the way it turns out. So if anyone has an easy soda bread recipe, please share.

I serve the meat with the cabbage and potatoes on the side. As condiments, I have mustard and make a sour cream and horseradish mixture for the meat. Salt, pepper and butter for the potatoes and cabbage. So simple and so delicious.

If you’re looking to make corned beef on St. Patrick’s Day, here’s what I found at Hy-Vee, Checkers and Dillons:

HY-VEE (prices good through 3/16/10)

Red potatoes – .79 cents/lb.

Corned beef brisket – $2.99/lb.

Corned beef point cut – $1.49/lb.

Cabbage – .19 cents/lb.

Irish soda bread – $2.99 (1 lb loaf)

CHECKERS (prices good through 3/16/10)

Corned beef point cut – $1.18/lb

Russet potatoes – $1.58/10 lb. bag

DILLONS (prices good through 3/16/10)

Corned beef brisket – $2.49/lb

Corned beef point cut – $1.29/lb.

Cabbage – .38 cents/lb.

Yukon gold potatoes – $2.99/5 lb. bag

Irish soda bread – $2.59/20 oz. loaf

Don’t forget to serve with your favorite Irish beer.