Traditional Irish Colcannon Recipe

Ingredients

  • 1.5 lbs potatoes
  • 2 sticks unsalted butter
  • 1 cup hot milk
  • 1 head of cabbage, cored and shredded
  • 1 leek, cleaned and thinly sliced
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 bunch green onions, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Steps and instructions

  1. Peel and dice the potatoes. Place them in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a pinch of salt and bring to a boil.
  2. Cook the potatoes until they are fork-tender, then drain and return them to the pot.
  3. Add one stick of butter and the hot milk to the potatoes. Mash until smooth and creamy, then set aside.
  4. In a large skillet, melt the remaining stick of butter over medium heat.
  5. Add the shredded cabbage, sliced leek, minced garlic, and chopped green onions to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are soft and slightly caramelized.
  6. Mix the cooked vegetables into the mashed potatoes. Add salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Transfer the Colcannon to a serving dish and serve warm.

Tools for making

Recipe variations

  • Add cooked bacon or ham for a meaty version of Colcannon.
  • Include grated cheddar cheese for a cheesy twist.
  • Substitute kale or spinach for cabbage.
  • Use sweet potatoes or a mix of sweet and regular potatoes for a sweeter flavor.
  • Add sautéed mushrooms for an earthy touch.
  • Season with herbs like thyme, parsley, or rosemary.
  • Add a splash of cream or sour cream for extra creaminess.
  • Include cooked peas or corn for added texture and color.

Recipe overview

Colcannon is a traditional Irish dish that combines creamy mashed potatoes with buttery, sautéed cabbage, leeks, and green onions. This comfort food is not only hearty and filling, but also rich in flavors. The potatoes are boiled until tender, then mashed with butter and hot milk for a creamy base. Meanwhile, the cabbage, leeks, and green onions are sautéed in butter until they're soft and slightly caramelized, adding a layer of savory sweetness. The two components are then mixed together, creating a dish that's both smooth and chunky, buttery and hearty. This Colcannon recipe is perfect for a cozy family dinner or as a special dish for St. Patrick's Day. Enjoy it as a main course, or as a side dish to your favorite meat or fish.

Common questions

  1. Can I use a different type of potato? Yes, you can use any type of potato you prefer. However, traditional Colcannon is typically made with starchy potatoes like Russet or Yukon Gold.
  2. Can I use salted butter? It is recommended to use unsalted butter to have better control over the saltiness of the dish. However, if you only have salted butter, you can reduce the amount of additional salt added.
  3. Can I use a different type of cabbage? Yes, you can use a different type of cabbage such as Savoy cabbage or Napa cabbage. Keep in mind that it may slightly alter the flavor and texture of the dish.
  4. Can I make Colcannon ahead of time? Yes, you can make Colcannon ahead of time and reheat it when ready to serve. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.
  5. Can I freeze Colcannon? While it is possible to freeze Colcannon, the texture may change slightly upon thawing and reheating. It is recommended to consume it fresh for the best taste and texture.
  6. Is Colcannon gluten-free? Yes, Colcannon is typically gluten-free. However, always check the labels of any store-bought ingredients you use to ensure they are gluten-free.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Potato Peeler - Use a potato peeler to peel the potatoes before dicing them.
  • Large Pot - A large pot is needed to cook the potatoes until they are fork-tender.
  • Masher - Use a masher to mash the cooked potatoes until smooth and creamy.
  • Skillet - A large skillet is used to cook the cabbage, leeks, garlic, and green onions.
  • Serving Dish - Transfer the finished Colcannon to a serving dish for presentation and serving.

Origin stories

Stemming from the verdant lands of Ireland, Colcannon is a traditional dish commonly associated with Halloween festivities. The Irish would often hide small coins or trinkets within the dish, and finding one in your serving was believed to bring good fortune. This playful tradition added an element of surprise and joy to the meal. The dish, a heartwarming medley of mashed potatoes and cabbage or kale, reflects the simplicity and resourcefulness of traditional Irish cooking, and its popularity endures today, not just on Halloween, but as an everyday comfort 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.