Crafting Culinary Delight with Patricia O’Shea at FoodSpace
From Humble Beginnings to Culinary Expertise
Patricia O’Shea’s journey into the culinary world began in her family kitchen. “I started cooking when I was young, often preparing dinner for my sister while my mam worked late,” Patricia reflects. This early start ignited a passion for cooking that would shape her future. After numerous training sessions and a rich experience in various kitchens, including six years in Killarney and roles in Clonmel, Patricia has spent nearly two decades perfecting her craft. Now, as a seasoned breakfast chef at FoodSpace, Patricia’s journey is a testament to dedication and love for the kitchen.
Celebrating Irish Flavours
For Patricia, Irish cuisine is a tapestry of tradition and comfort. “Irish cuisine reflects our seasonal rhythms,” she says. “In the summer, we enjoy quick, light dishes, while winter calls for hearty stews and casseroles.” At FoodSpace, we weave these elements into the menu, creating dishes that resonate with the comforting essence of Irish cuisine. Whether it’s a brisket stew on a chilly day or a fresh salad in the sunshine, we make sure that each dish offers a taste of home.
A Passion for Local Ingredients
Patricia’s commitment to using local ingredients shines through in her creations. “I love incorporating Butcher’s Daughter sausage meat and locally sourced beef from Clonmel into our dishes,” she says. “The beef brisket, for instance, pairs beautifully with our in-house slaw.” By choosing local produce, not only does it enhance the flavours of our dishes but also supports the community and upholds our commitment to sustainability. She values the environmental aspect of our FoodSpace’s ethos. “Our focus on using ingredients within a 50-mile radius and repurposing vegetable peelings is meaningful to me,” she explains. “We also create pickled slaws and kimchi, which are big favourites.
A Day in Patricia’s Life
A typical day for Patricia starts early. “I’m usually in by 7 AM, prepping soups, meats, and bread,” she shares. “By 10 AM, I’m getting vegetables ready and handling salads, mains, and desserts.” As the day progresses, Patricia hands over her tasks to the evening team, ensuring a smooth transition and preparing for their needs. Fridays are particularly busy but enjoyable, with a rush of orders, but Patricia and the team’s efficiency and dedication keep everything running smoothly.
Favourite Dishes and Sweet Indulgences
When it comes to her personal favourites, Patricia enjoys simplicity. “In the summer, I love a good chicken salad, while in winter, nothing beats a hearty beef stew,” she says. And if given the choice to eat one dish every day for the rest of her life, Patricia’s choice is indulgent: “Chocolate fondant with ice cream and caramel sauce—forever!”
Future Endeavours
In future, Patricia is excited about upcoming changes and seasonal specials that will further enhance our FoodSpace’s offerings. Through her commitment to quality and her deep-rooted love for Irish cuisine, Patricia O’Shea continues to make a significant impact at FoodSpace, crafting dishes that are both nostalgic and innovative.
Thank You Patricia!
