Samhain, pronounced “sow-win,” is a festival rooted in Celtic traditions, celebrating the end of the harvest season and the beginning of the darker half of the year. Observed from October 31 to November 1, Samhain is a time to honor ancestors, reflect on the cycles of life, and revel in the natural world’s final offerings before winter. Many of the traditions associated with this festival later influenced modern Halloween, but for followers of pagan spirituality, Samhain remains a deeply significant celebration.

Food plays a central role in Samhain festivities, with traditional dishes prepared to honor both the earth’s bounty and the spirits of loved ones who have passed. From colcannon to barmbrack, roasting root vegetables to sipping mulled cider, these dishes bring together warmth, community, and centuries of seasonal tradition. And, of course, no Samhain table would be complete without soul cakes, a historic treat that bridges the festival with the later Christian observance of All Souls’ Day.

Here’s how to prepare some of these deliciously meaningful recipes and celebrate Samhain with flavors steeped in history and intention.

A Brief History of Samhain

Samhain marks the transition between the autumn harvest and winter, a time the Celts believed the veil between the living and the dead was thinnest. Offerings of food were left for spirits and gods, while feasts celebrated the year’s final harvest. Families often reserved a place at the table for departed loved ones as a sign of respect. The symbolic foods of Samhain are earthy and rich, rooted in seasonal abundance and designed to bring comfort during the darker months.

1. Colcannon

Colcannon is a traditional Irish dish made from mashed potatoes and cabbage or kale. It symbolizes prosperity and is a hearty addition to any Samhain feast.

Ingredients:

  • 2 lbs potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet)
  • 1/2 head green cabbage, finely shredded
  • 1 cup kale, chopped (optional)
  • 4 tbsp butter (plus extra for serving)
  • 1/2 cup milk or cream
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Boil the Potatoes - Peel and cut the potatoes into equal pieces. Boil them in salted water until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.
  2. Sauté the Greens- Heat 2 tbsp butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the cabbage and kale, cooking until wilted and tender.
  3. Mash the Potatoes - Drain the potatoes and mash them with the remaining butter and milk until smooth. Fold in the cooked greens.
  4. Season and Serve - Add salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm with an extra pat of butter for richness.

Modern Twist: Add crispy pancetta or roasted garlic for additional flavor.

2. Soul Cakes

Soul cakes have been a part of Samhain and All Souls’ Day traditions for centuries. They were often given to visitors or left as offerings for spirits, symbolizing generosity and remembrance.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1/2 tsp nutmeg
  • 1/2 tsp cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp allspice
  • 1/2 cup butter, softened
  • 2 tbsp currants or dried fruit
  • 1 egg
  • 2 tbsp milk

Instructions:

  1. Preheat and Mix Dry Ingredients - Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Combine the flour, sugar, and spices in a large bowl.
  2. Work Butter into Dry Ingredients - Cut the softened butter into the flour mixture until it resembles breadcrumbs.
  3. Add Egg and Milk - Beat the egg and milk together in a small bowl, then gradually add to the dry mixture, stirring until a dough forms. Mix in the currants.
  4. Shape and Bake - Roll the dough out onto a floured surface and cut into small rounds or shapes. Place on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes until golden.
  5. Serve or Offer - Soul cakes can be served warm or left as offerings for loved ones or spirits.

Modern Twist: Add orange zest or drizzle with honey for extra flavor. Consider decorating the tops with icing to mark them with a cross or interesting patterns.

3. Barmbrack

This Irish fruit bread is traditionally associated with fortune-telling. Small charms or items were baked into the loaf, each representing a future outcome for its finder.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups strong black tea, brewed and cooled
  • 1 1/2 cups dried mixed fruit (raisins, currants, cherries)
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1 egg, beaten

Instructions:

  1. Prep the Fruit - Combine dried fruit and tea in a bowl. Cover and soak overnight.
  2. Mix the Batter - Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Mix flour, sugar, baking powder, and cinnamon. Add soaked fruit (including any remaining tea) and the beaten egg.
  3. Bake - Pour batter into a greased loaf pan and bake for 60-70 minutes, until a toothpick comes out clean.

Modern Twist: Add a modern charm or intention slip when slicing and serving to carry forward the fortune-telling aspect of this classic dish.

4. Roasted Root Vegetables

Seasonal root vegetables are a staple at Samhain feasts, symbolizing grounding and nourishment.

Ingredients:

  • 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
  • 2 parsnips, peeled and chopped
  • 1 sweet potato, cubed
  • 1 red onion, cut into wedges
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Toss and Season - Toss the vegetables with olive oil, thyme, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
  2. Roast - Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Spread the vegetables evenly on a baking sheet and roast for 25 minutes, stirring halfway through.

Modern Twist: Top with a drizzle of balsamic glaze or feta cheese for an extra layer of flavor.

5. Mulled Cider

Sipping warm mulled cider by the fire is one of Samhain’s coziest traditions, honoring the sacred apple in Celtic lore.

Ingredients:

  • 1 gallon apple cider
  • 3 cinnamon sticks
  • 4 cloves
  • 1 orange, sliced
  • 1/4 cup honey or brown sugar
  • Optional splash of spiced rum or brandy

Instructions:

  1. Combine Ingredients - Add cider, spices, and orange slices to a large pot.
  2. Simmer - Heat over low heat for 20-30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
  3. Serve Warm - Strain into mugs and garnish with a fresh slice of apple or cinnamon stick.

Modern Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne for a kick of heat or experiment with fresh herbs like rosemary.