Colcannon potatoes are a traditional Irish dish that combines mashed potatoes with cabbage or kale, creating a comforting and hearty side. Typically made with boiled potatoes mashed with butter, milk, and sometimes cream, colcannon is enriched with the addition of finely chopped cooked cabbage or kale, which adds a delightful texture and subtle sweetness. This dish is often seasoned with salt, pepper, and sometimes scallions or leeks for extra flavor. Colcannon potatoes are a staple of Irish cuisine, often served alongside meat dishes like corned beef or Irish stew, and are a beloved comfort food, especially during holidays like St. Patrick’s Day.
Colcannon Potatoes
Ingredients
- 4 pounds medium potatoes peeled and quartered
- 1 medium head cabbage shredded
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup chopped green onions
- 1-1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- 1/4 cup butter melted
- Minced fresh parsley
- Crumbled cooked bacon
Instructions
- Place cabbage and 2 cups water in a large saucepan; bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, covered, until cabbage is tender, about 10 minutes. Drain, reserving cooking liquid; keep cabbage warm in separate dish.
- In same pan, combine potatoes and reserved cooking liquid. Add additional water to cover potatoes; bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cook, uncovered, until potatoes are tender, 15-20 minutes. Meanwhile, place milk, green onions, salt and pepper in a small saucepan; bring just to a boil and remove from heat.
- Drain potatoes; place in a large bowl and mash. Add milk mixture; beat just until blended. Stir in cabbage. To serve, drizzle with butter; top with parsley and bacon.