Colcannon Dish: A Traditional Irish Recipe for Comfort Food Lovers

Colcannon dish is a beloved traditional Irish recipe that warms the heart and soul. This comforting blend of creamy mashed potatoes and vibrant greens, often enhanced with scallions and butter, has been a staple in Irish households for centuries. The origins of colcannon can be traced back to the 17th century, where it was not only a delicious meal but also a symbol of harvest and celebration during the autumn months. People adore this dish for its rich, buttery flavor and delightful texture, making it a perfect side for any meal or a cozy main course on chilly evenings. Whether served alongside a hearty stew or enjoyed on its own, colcannon dish brings a taste of Ireland to your table, inviting you to savor its warmth and history.

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds of potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet work well)
• 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter
• 1 cup of whole milk (or cream for a richer taste)
• 1 cup of chopped green cabbage (or kale for a twist)
• 1 cup of chopped scallions (green onions)
• Salt, to taste
• Pepper, to taste
• Optional: 1/2 cup of cooked bacon or ham, chopped

Preparing the Potatoes

1. Start by peeling the potatoes. I like to use a vegetable peeler for this task, as it makes the process quick and easy. Once peeled, cut the potatoes into evenly sized chunks, about 1-2 inches. This ensures they cook evenly. 2. Place the potato chunks into a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add a generous pinch of salt to the water. This will help season the potatoes as they cook. 3. Bring the pot to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium and let the potatoes simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are fork-tender. You can test this by poking a piece with a fork; it should slide in easily. 4. Once cooked, drain the potatoes in a colander and let them sit for a minute to allow excess moisture to evaporate. This step is crucial for achieving a fluffy texture in your colcannon.

Preparing the Cabbage and Scallions

5. While the potatoes are cooking, it’s time to prepare the cabbage and scallions. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. 6. Add the chopped cabbage (or kale) to the skillet. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender and slightly caramelized. If you’re using kale, it may take a bit longer to soften. 7. Once the cabbage is cooked, add the chopped scallions to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the scallions are tender and fragrant. Remove the skillet from heat and set aside.

Mashing the Potatoes

8. Return to the drained potatoes. In the same pot, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and the whole milk (or cream). 9. Using a potato masher, begin mashing the potatoes until they reach your desired consistency. I prefer mine to be creamy but still have a bit of texture. If you like it smoother, you can use a hand mixer or a ricer for an ultra-smooth finish. 10. Season the mashed potatoes with salt and pepper to taste. Remember, you can always add more, but you can’t take it out, so start with a little and adjust as needed.

Combining Ingredients

11. Now it’s time to combine everything! Gently fold the sautéed cabbage and scallions into the mashed potatoes. If you’re adding cooked bacon or ham, this is the moment to mix it in as well. 12. Stir until everything is well combined. The vibrant green of the cabbage and scallions will add a lovely color to the creamy potatoes.

Serving the Colcannon

13. Transfer the colcannon to a serving dish. I like to create a small well in the center of the colcannon for a little extra flair. 14. If you want to take it up a notch, melt a tablespoon of butter and drizzle it into the well you created. This not only looks beautiful but adds a rich buttery flavor to each serving. 15. Serve the colcannon hot, and enjoy it as a side dish with your favorite protein, or simply on its own. It pairs wonderfully with roasted meats, sausages, or even a hearty stew.

Storing Leftovers

16. If you have any leftovers (which is rare because it’s so delicious!), let the colcannon cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. 17. To reheat, simply place it in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen it up. Stir occasionally until heated through.

Variations and Tips

18. Feel free to get creative with your colcannon! You can add other ingredients like grated cheese, sautéed garlic, or even a hint of nutmeg for a unique twist. 19. If you want to make it vegan, substitute the butter with olive oil

Conclusion:

In summary, this colcannon recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their comfort food game. The creamy mashed potatoes combined with the vibrant greens and a hint of onion create a dish that is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Whether you serve it as a side dish to your favorite protein or enjoy it on its own, colcannon is versatile enough to fit any meal. For a fun twist, consider adding ingredients like crispy bacon, cheese, or even a dollop of sour cream to enhance the flavors even further. You can also experiment with different greens, such as kale or spinach, to give it your own personal touch. I encourage you to give this colcannon recipe a try and share your experience with friends and family. I would love to hear how you made it your own and any variations you came up with. So roll up your sleeves, get cooking, and enjoy the delightful taste of this traditional Irish dish! Print