1. imagesFour leaf clovers are considered lucky, each leaf means: faith, hope, love, and luck
  2. St. Patrick’s color was a light shade of blue. It only changed to green after it was linked to the Irish Independence movement in the late 18th century!
  3. There are no lady leprechauns according to Irish folk tales
  4. In 2012…..an estimated 245 million dollars was spent on beer alone
  5. Corned beef and cabbage are a traditional staple for the festivities. Try this easy crock pot recipe for your own celebrations:

INGREDIENTS:

3-3.5 lb. corned beef brisket
1 seasoning packet
1/2 tsp. garlic powder
3/4 tsp. black pepper, divided
2 tsp. kosher salt, divided
12 oz beer
3-4 cups water
1 lb. baby carrots
1 lb. red potatoes
1 small cabbage, cut in chunks

STEPS:
Place vegetables in the bottom of a slow cooker. Sprinkle with 1/2 tsp. black pepper and 1 tsp. kosher salt.

Remove brisket from package and rinse.

Place brisket on top of vegetables with the fat side up. Sprinkle with the seasoning packet, garlic powder, 1/4 tsp. black pepper, and 1 tsp. salt.

Pour beer around the beef. Pour enough water around the beef so that it is almost emerged, but not covered.

Cook on low for 8 hours. Slice corned beef across the grain, and serve with vegetables.

INGREDIENTS: Reuben Sandwich
Leftover corned beef
Rye bread
Sauerkraut, drained
Swiss cheese
Butter
Thousand Island Dressing:
1/2 cup mayo
2 tbsp. ketchup
1 tbsp. sweet pickle relish
Pinch of salt and pepper

STEPS:
Mix ingredients for dressing together in a bowl and set aside.

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a couple tablespoons of butter.

Spread 2 slices of bread with the dressing. Layer sliced corned beef, sauerkraut, and cheese on one side of the bread. Close the sandwich with the other slice of bread, dressing on the inside.

Place sandwich in skillet and cook until browned on each side and cheese is melted.