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Irish Colcannon Recipe

Irish Colcannon Recipe


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4.7 from 35 reviews

  • Total Time: 30-34 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Hearty Irish colcannon brings rustic potato comfort straight from Ireland’s green countryside, blending creamy mashed potatoes with tender cabbage and green onions. Homemade warmth awaits you in this simple, soul-satisfying dish that connects generations through its humble, delicious ingredients.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 2 pounds potatoes
  • 4 cups green cabbage or kale

Dairy and Seasoning:

  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup milk or cream
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Aromatics:

  • 4 green onions, finely chopped

Instructions

  1. Place diced potatoes in a large pot, cover with cold water, and add a pinch of salt. Bring to a vigorous boil over high heat, then reduce to a gentle simmer for 15-20 minutes until potatoes are fork-tender.
  2. Simultaneously prepare a separate pot of boiling water for blanching the greens. Submerge shredded cabbage or kale for 3-4 minutes until slightly softened but maintaining a vibrant color. Drain and set aside.
  3. Once potatoes are cooked, thoroughly drain and return to the pot. Add butter and milk, then vigorously mash until achieving a smooth, creamy consistency with minimal lumps.
  4. Fold the blanched greens and chopped green onions into the mashed potatoes. Season generously with salt and pepper, ensuring even distribution of ingredients throughout the mixture.
  5. Transfer the colcannon to a serving dish, creating a small well in the center. Place remaining butter in the depression, allowing it to melt and cascade over the warm potato mixture. Serve immediately while piping hot for maximum flavor and texture.

Notes

  • Use starchy, high-starch potatoes like Russet or Yukon Gold for the creamiest, fluffiest texture that absorbs butter and milk perfectly.
  • Allow potatoes to steam dry after draining to prevent watery mashed potatoes, ensuring a rich and thick consistency.
  • Consider alternative greens like Swiss chard or spinach for a unique twist on traditional colcannon, adding extra nutrients and vibrant color.
  • Make this dish gluten-free and dairy-free by substituting butter with olive oil or vegan butter and using plant-based milk alternatives like almond or oat milk.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20-24 minutes
  • Category: Dinner, Side Dish
  • Method: Boiling
  • Cuisine: Irish

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 250
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 300 mg
  • Fat: 12 g
  • Saturated Fat: 7 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 34 g
  • Fiber: 4 g
  • Protein: 5 g
  • Cholesterol: 30 mg