National Corned Beef and Cabbage Day is a holiday that’s observed on the 17th of March and is usually celebrated in conjunction with St. Patrick’s Day. This holiday grew out of the fact that corned beef and cabbage is the traditional dish enjoyed by people celebrating Saint Patrick’s Day. For those unfamiliar with the dish, corned beef and cabbage actually descended from traditional Irish recipes.

In Ireland, there was a dish made with salt pork or bacon and cabbage that was popular prior to the 19th century. Irish immigrants brought this recipe to North America, but instead of using the traditional meats they used in Ireland, they used Jewish corned beef—meat that was similar to pork but was more common in the United States. Before long, Irish-Americans all over the country were making corned beef and cabbage, and it continues on to this day.

Salty Facts About Corned Beef And Cabbage

Want some delicious corned beef and cabbage facts? If so, then we’ve served up a smorgasbord below. Enjoy the following factoids while you’re observing this fun holiday.

• Abraham Lincoln’s inaugural dinner served corned beef and cabbage.
• Corned beef and cabbage is not an Irish national dish. It’s an Irish-American dish.
• Corned beef is usually brined with saltwater.
• People have been “corning” meats with rock-salt kernels for over a thousand years.

Observing Corned Beef And Cabbage Day

The placement of this holiday is perfect because people can celebrate St. Patrick’s Day and Corned Beef And Cabbage Day at the same time. It’s also a good thing that many restaurants all over the U.S. will be serving corned beef and cabbage, although we do recommend that you make your own.

While you’re enjoying the festivities, don’t forget to also enjoy some green beer on this holiday and to post online using the hashtag #CornedBeefAndCabbageDay to spread the word about this holiday.