Irish Champ is a traditional Irish dish that combines creamy mashed potatoes with spring onions (scallions) and butter, creating a rich and comforting side dish. This dish is easy to make and pairs well with a variety of main courses, making it a versatile addition to any meal.
Ingredients for Irish Champ:
- 2 pounds (about 1 kg) potatoes, peeled and quartered
- 4 to 6 spring onions (scallions), chopped
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) milk
- 1/2 cup (115g) butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make Irish Champ:
- Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat and simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- While the potatoes are cooking, heat the milk and butter in a small saucepan over low heat until the butter is melted. Set aside.
- Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Mash the potatoes with a potato masher or fork until smooth.
- Stir in the chopped spring onions, warm milk, and butter mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Continue to mash until the spring onions are well incorporated and the mixture is creamy and smooth.
About the Main Ingredients:
- Potatoes: The type of potato you use can affect the texture of your mashed potatoes. Russet potatoes are commonly used for mashed potatoes because they have a high starch content, which results in a light and fluffy texture. However, you can also use Yukon Gold or red potatoes for a creamier texture.
- Spring Onions (Scallions): Spring onions add a mild onion flavor and a pop of color to the dish. You can adjust the amount of spring onions to suit your taste.
- Butter and Milk: These ingredients add richness and creaminess to the mashed potatoes. Using warm milk and butter helps them blend more easily into the potatoes, resulting in a smoother texture.
Enjoy your Irish Champ as a delicious side dish with your favorite main course!
