Nothing Beats Mammy’s Roast! New research from Beko reveals hot takes on Irish mammies ahead of Mother’s Day

With Mother’s Day quickly approaching, new research from Beko is here to remind us of the things we love most about Irish mammies. Results have revealed Ireland’s favourite mom-made meals, most predicted Mother’s Day gifts, how Irish mams across generations have adapted, and the distinctive traits that make them so special.

The Irish love a hearty home-cooked dinner, so it’s no surprise that 31% of surveyed adults chose a roast dinner as the ultimate dish that reminds them of home. Kerry emerged as the biggest fan, with 50% of respondents selecting it as their top choice. Coming behind, 1 in 5 (20%) selected the Irish stew as their favourite. Meanwhile, 17% of people opted for the wholesome bacon and cabbage, making it the third most nostalgic dish. Shepherd’s pie and summer salad followed, with 10% of respondents selecting each as their top mammy-cooked meal.

When it comes to Mother’s Day gifting options, flowers are the top choice (35%), with 69% of Offaly respondents, 63% of Donegal respondents, and 45% of Galway respondents most likely to surprise their mammy with a bouquet. Restaurant and holiday vouchers came in second (16%), followed by the classic box of chocolates (12%).

Thoughtful gestures don’t have to break the bank - 41% of people plan to spend between €20 to 50 on Mother’s Day gifts, with an average gift spend of €43. Longford is the most generous county, with an average spend of €104 on a Mother’s Day gift. On the other end, Offaly emerges as the most frugal, with an average spend of €23.90.

As times change, so does the role of an Irish mum. Over half of respondents (62%) feel that the modern Irish mammy has it easier than previous generations, with 73% attributing this to advancements in household technology and convenience, 69% claiming greater involvement from fathers & parents, followed by more flexible work options (59%) and better parental leave & child support (58%). On the other hand, however, 38% believe that Irish mothers have it harder than previous generations. 64% expressed this is due to the cost-of-living crisis, while 59% claim that dual-income households and career pressures are making it more difficult. Other reasons listed include children still living at home because they can’t afford to pay rent (45%), technology & screen time (41%) and lack of ‘village’ support (36%).

No matter the generation, however, the traits that make Irish mammies so special continue to withstand the test of time. More than 1 in 3 adults (35%) say their favourite trait about Irish mammies is their fierce protectiveness, while 32% said they admire their nurturing and caring nature. Generosity and hospitality rank highly at 30%, followed closely by their unmatched sense of humour (29%).

Shane Kelly, Sales and Marketing Manager for Beko said: ‘At Beko, we honour mothers, and it is our mission to celebrate and support them. Beko has been a proud sponsor of the annual Woman’s Way and Beko Mum of the Year Awards for a decade now. These awards are a wonderful way to shine a light on the incredible contributions Irish mothers make in so many aspects of everyday life – often going unnoticed.’

*Research conducted by iReach, commissioned by Sweartaker on behalf of Beko between March 5th - 12th 2025. 1,000 adults across Ireland were surveyed.

Slán go fóill.