They say everyone is a little bit Irish on St. Patrick’s Day.

This Sunday, as Washingtonians ring in another St. Patrick’s Day, I hope we all take a moment to celebrate two of our state’s finest contributions to the holiday: hops and potatoes.

For the uninitiated, Washington state grows more hops than anywhere else in the United States, by far. In fact, 2018 data shows 68 percent of commercial hop production in the United States is in our state with 75 percent of that centered in the Yakima Valley. Hops are a key ingredient in one of the stars of St. Patrick’s Day – beer.

The nearly black and milky white head of a pint of Guinness is the iconic drink of the holiday. The brewing company estimates it sells 13 million pints of its signature drink on St. Patrick’s Day. Several claims about the beverage have been debunked over the years including its alcohol and caloric content along with its “health” benefits. One thing is almost certain though, every pint of Guinness very likely has hops from Washington state in the mix.

While it’s a pretty good bet you’re getting a taste of Washington state in a pint of Guinness, you can be absolutely certain you’re getting a bite of our state in a Washington-grown spud.

Our state is second only to Idaho in potato production in the United States. In 2023, Washington state’s potato growers raised 99.6 billion pounds of spuds. Most potatoes in the U.S. are used for French fries, chips, dehydrated potatoes, or other purposes. Baked, fried, mashed, or boiled, St. Patrick’s Day recipes often feature potatoes prominently on the menu.

So, on a day almost universally loved for bringing people together over a glass and a starchy vegetable, remember the contributions our state has made to helping it all come together. It is estimated about 10 percent of Washington state’s population is of Irish descent, so whether you come by it honestly or just for the day, tip a glass to the farmers who help make it memorable.

And, if you want to try a new taste of the Irish, here are a couple of my favorite recipes to ring in the day.

Dublin Coddle – a slow cooked potato stew; this isn’t the one I make but I don’t have a link to a recipe received from friends in Dublin.

Soda Bread – four ingredients, one delicious loaf.

Guinness Chocolate Cake – One cup of beer in the cake, the rest to enjoy while baking.