Irish Restaurants do stock corned beef and cabbage - but that was a New York invention. True Irish food involves fresh fish, lamb stew, and fresh veggies.

We went to an Irish restaurant recently to see what they would have to offer for low carbers. Sure, the corned beef was on the menu, as were potato dishes. They have to make some accomodations for the people who think those are authentic! But there were also many fresh dishes that were mouthwatering.

Ireland is an island nation - it's surrounded by ocean. Many parts of Ireland are famous for their fish-catching. Aran's famous sweaters were designed to help tell fishermen apart! Inland, there is a TON of freshwater fishing as well. So most Irish restaurants will have a few fish dishes for your pleasure. Fish is very healthy for you!

In addition, Ireland is CRAWLING with sheep. The times I've been there, you couldn't drive 10 miles without finding sheep crossing the road or peering at you over a stone fence. Lamb is extremely popular with the Irish.

It's been over a century since the great famine that the English system of potato farming caused. Irish farmers were all forced to grow potatoes as a cash crop instead of the vegetables they loved. Now that the Irish have control again, their multitudes of nutritious vegetables are legendary. Give a try of just about any vegetable dish offered and you're sure to be impressed.

If you must have some corned beef and cabbage, dig in! Just ignore the potatoes, and eat up the rest. Toast with some Irish whiskey or fruit wine. Slainte!