Traditional Irish Champ Recipe

Ingredients

2 pounds of potatoes
1 cup of milk
4 green onions
8 tablespoons (1 stick) of unsalted butter
Salt, to taste
Pepper, to taste

Steps and instructions

Wash and peel the potatoes. Cut them into equal, medium-sized pieces.
Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a pinch of salt.
Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce the heat to low and let the potatoes simmer until they are fork-tender, about 15 to 20 minutes.
While the potatoes are cooking, chop the green onions finely, both the white and green parts.
In a small saucepan, heat the milk and half of the butter over low heat. Add the chopped green onions and let them infuse in the warm milk until needed.
Once the potatoes are cooked, drain them well and return them to the pot.
Add the warm milk and onion mixture to the drained potatoes. Mash everything together until it's smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, mash less.
Add the rest of the butter to the mash and mix well. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve the champ hot, with an extra knob of butter melting in the middle if desired.

Tools for making

Potatoes - 2 pounds of potatoes, washed, peeled, and cut into equal, medium-sized pieces.
Large pot - For boiling the potatoes.
Colander - To drain the cooked potatoes.
Knife - To chop the green onions and peel the potatoes.
Cutting board - To safely chop the green onions and potatoes.
Small saucepan - To heat the milk and butter for the onion infusion.
Potato masher - To mash the cooked potatoes.
Spatula or wooden spoon - To mix the mashed potatoes with the milk and butter.

Recipe variations

Add grated cheddar cheese to the mashed potatoes for a cheesy champ.
Include cooked and crumbled bacon for a delicious bacon and potato champ.
Replace the green onions with caramelized onions for a sweeter flavor.
Try using sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a twist on traditional champ.
For a herb-infused champ, add chopped fresh herbs such as parsley, chives, or thyme.
Make it a complete meal by adding cooked peas or corn to the mashed potatoes.
Use vegetable broth instead of milk for a dairy-free or vegan version.
For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free flour or substitute almond flour.

Recipe overview

Champ is a classic, comforting Irish dish, made with creamy mashed potatoes, milk, butter, and green onions. It's a simple yet satisfying side dish that pairs wonderfully with any type of meat or fish. The green onions give the potatoes a gentle, sweet flavor, and the butter makes them incredibly rich and smooth. Making champ at home is easy and takes less than an hour. All you need are basic pantry ingredients and a few simple steps. Whether you're looking for a hearty side for your main course or a comforting dish to enjoy on a cold day, this champ recipe is a great choice. Enjoy it hot, with an extra knob of butter melting on top, for a truly indulgent experience.

Common questions

What type of potatoes should I use for champ?
You can use any starchy or all-purpose potatoes for champ. Russet potatoes are a popular choice, but Yukon Gold or red potatoes work well too.
Can I use margarine or oil instead of butter?
While butter adds a rich flavor to champ, you can substitute margarine or oil if desired. Just keep in mind that it may alter the taste slightly.
Can I use a different type of milk?
Yes, you can use any type of milk you prefer. Whole milk will provide a creamier texture, but you can use low-fat or non-dairy milk alternatives as well.
Can I make champ ahead of time?
Yes, you can make champ ahead of time. After mashing the potatoes, let them cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat the champ on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little extra milk if needed.
Can I freeze leftover champ?
Yes, you can freeze leftover champ. Place it in a freezer-safe container or freezer bags, making sure to remove any excess air. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Can I add other ingredients to champ?
Absolutely! Champ is versatile and can be customized to your taste. You can add grated cheese, cooked bacon, chives, or even garlic for extra flavor.

Serving dishes and utensils

Potato peeler - Used to peel the potatoes before cooking.
Large pot - Used for boiling the potatoes.
Colander - Used for draining the cooked potatoes.
Masher - Used to mash the cooked potatoes into a smooth consistency.
Saucepan - Used to heat the milk and butter mixture for the champ.
Stirring spoon - Used for mixing the ingredients while cooking.
Salt and pepper shakers - Used to season the champ to taste.
Butter knife - Used for serving and spreading butter on top of the champ.

Origin stories

Champ is a traditional Irish dish, beloved for its simplicity yet rich flavor. It's a countryside staple, hailing from the days when the Irish diet heavily relied on potatoes. Each family had its own variation, often using whatever green vegetable was most plentiful at the time, from cabbage to kale, but green onions, or scallions, are the most common. The dish is named for the "champing" sound made while it's being eaten, a testament to its hearty, comforting qualities. This humble dish has stood the test of time, becoming a cherished emblem of Irish cuisine, and reminding us of the profound pleasure that can be found in simple, homely food.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.