Colcannon is a classic Irish dish that combines creamy mashed potatoes with cabbage or kale, along with butter, cream, and seasonings. This comforting and hearty dish is perfect for St. Patrick’s Day or any time you’re craving a taste of Ireland. Colcannon is not only delicious but also a great way to use up leftover mashed potatoes and greens. Let’s dive into how to make this comforting dish.
Ingredients for Colcannon
- 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup milk or cream
- 1 small head of cabbage, finely shredded (or substitute with kale)
- 4 green onions, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How to Make Colcannon
- Boil the potatoes: Place the potato chunks in a large pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat and cook until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Cook the cabbage: While the potatoes are cooking, melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shredded cabbage and cook until wilted and tender, about 5-7 minutes. If using kale, cook until wilted but still slightly crisp, about 4-5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
- Mash the potatoes: Drain the cooked potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the remaining butter and milk or cream. Mash the potatoes until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine the mashed potatoes and cabbage: Fold the cooked cabbage or kale and chopped green onions into the mashed potatoes until well combined.
- Serve: Transfer the colcannon to a serving dish and serve hot, topped with additional butter if desired.
About the Main Ingredients
Each ingredient in colcannon adds its own unique flavor and texture to the dish.
Potatoes: Potatoes are the base of colcannon, providing a creamy and starchy texture. Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work well in this recipe.
Butter: Butter adds richness and flavor to the mashed potatoes, making them creamy and indulgent.
Milk or cream: Milk or cream helps to thin out the mashed potatoes and adds richness. Cream will make the colcannon more decadent, while milk will create a lighter dish.
Cabbage or kale: Cabbage or kale adds a nutritious element to the dish, as well as a slightly bitter flavor that complements the creamy potatoes.
Green onions: Green onions add a fresh, oniony flavor to the colcannon, enhancing its overall taste.
Salt and pepper: Salt and pepper season the dish, bringing out the flavors of the other ingredients.
Colcannon is a comforting and delicious dish that is perfect for celebrating St. Patrick’s Day or enjoying any time you want a taste of Ireland. With its creamy mashed potatoes, tender cabbage or kale, and savory seasonings, colcannon is sure to become a new favorite in your home. Serve it as a side dish with grilled meats or enjoy it on its own as a hearty and satisfying meal. However you choose to enjoy it, colcannon is sure to warm you up and fill you up with its comforting flavors.
