Traditional Colcannon

Name: Traditional Colcannon
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Irish
Ingredients: 6 medium potatoes (see notes on what potatoes to use); 1/4 cup (50ml) milk; 6-8 green onions (green parts only); 1/2 cup (100g) unsalted butter; 2 cups (150g) Savoy cabbage (sliced); Salt and pepper to taste

Recipe By:

Martha

Posted:

February 2, 2025

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Traditional Colcannon is a comforting Irish dish that brings together the creamy richness of mashed potatoes with the freshness of green onions and Savoy cabbage. This delightful combination not only warms your soul but also makes for a nutritious and satisfying meal. If you love cooking and exploring new flavors, mastering this classic recipe will add a delightful touch to your culinary repertoire.

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Why You’ll Love Traditional Colcannon
Ingredients
Preparing the Potatoes
Boil the Potatoes Until Tender
Infuse the Milk with Green Onions
Sauté the Savoy Cabbage
Drain and Dry the Potatoes
Mash the Potatoes
Incorporate the Butter and Cabbage
Serving Suggestions
Tips for Success
Variations
FAQs
Conclusion
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Why You’ll Love Traditional Colcannon

Colcannon is not just any mashed potato dish. It’s a warm hug on a plate! The creamy potatoes paired with the crisp green onions and tender cabbage create a harmony of flavors that’s simply irresistible. This dish has deep roots in Irish culture, often enjoyed during special occasions and holidays. It’s perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings with friends. Trust me; once you taste it, you’ll understand why colcannon is loved by so many.

Ingredients

6 medium potatoes (see notes on what potatoes to use)
1/4 cup (50ml) milk
6-8 green onions (green parts only)
1/2 cup (100g) unsalted butter
2 cups (150g) Savoy cabbage (sliced)
Salt and pepper to taste

Preparing the Potatoes

Boil the Potatoes Until Tender

Start by peeling and quartering the potatoes. Place them in a large pot and cover with salted water. Bring the water to a boil, and let them cook until they are very tender. This usually takes around 15-20 minutes. You can poke them with a fork to check their softness. If they break apart easily, they’re ready to go!

Infuse the Milk with Green Onions

While the potatoes are boiling, take a saucepan and add the sliced green onions to the milk. Heat this mixture over low heat. You want it to get warm but not boil over. Just wait until you see tiny bubbles forming at the edge. This infusion adds a lovely flavor to the milk that enhances your colcannon.

Sauté the Savoy Cabbage

In a deep frying pan, melt 1-2 tablespoons of butter over low heat. Now, add in the sliced Savoy cabbage. Sauté it for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it wilts and becomes tender. The cabbage will turn a vibrant green and smell wonderful! If you prefer, you can also steam the cabbage instead of sautéing it. Either method will work!

Drain and Dry the Potatoes

Once the potatoes are tender, carefully drain them in a colander. Let them steam dry for a few minutes. This step is important! Removing excess moisture helps ensure your colcannon has that perfect, creamy texture instead of being watery.

Mash the Potatoes

Now comes the fun part! Return the drained potatoes to the pot. Pour in the hot milk infused with green onions. Grab your potato masher and start mashing away! Mash until the potatoes are mostly smooth but still have a bit of texture. The smell is already heavenly, and it’s about to get even better!

Incorporate the Butter and Cabbage

Add the remaining butter to your mashed potatoes. Keep mashing until the butter melts and everything is well combined. Now, gently fold in the sautéed Savoy cabbage. Make sure it’s evenly distributed throughout the mixture. Finally, season generously with salt and pepper to taste. Don’t skip this part; it makes all the difference!

Serving Suggestions

Now that your Traditional Colcannon is ready, it’s time to serve! You can enjoy it as a side dish with roasted meats, sausages, or even alongside a hearty Irish stew. It can also shine as a main dish. Just top it with a poached egg for a delicious breakfast or brunch option. The runny yolk adds an extra layer of flavor that’s just divine!

Tips for Success

For the best texture, use starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Gold. They mash beautifully!
Ensure the potatoes are adequately drained to prevent a watery consistency. Nobody wants watery colcannon!
Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving. A little extra salt or pepper might be just what you need.

Variations

Colcannon is versatile! Here are some fun ways to mix it up:

Bacon or Ham: For a savory twist, add cooked bacon or ham to the mix. It adds a delicious depth of flavor!
Other Greens: You can incorporate other greens like kale or spinach for added nutrition and a pop of color.
Cheese: Mix in different types of cheese like cheddar or cream cheese for a rich and creamy result. Who doesn’t love cheese?

FAQs

Q: Can I make colcannon ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare colcannon ahead of time! Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just reheat it gently before serving.

Q: What can I pair with colcannon?
A: Colcannon pairs beautifully with roasted meats, fish, or you can even use it as a filling for savory pies. It’s super versatile!

Q: How long will colcannon last in the fridge?
A: When stored properly in an airtight container, colcannon will last for about 3-5 days in the fridge.

Q: Can I freeze colcannon?
A: Yes, colcannon can be frozen! Store it in an airtight container or a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Just remember to thaw it in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.

Conclusion

Now that you’ve learned how to make Traditional Colcannon, it’s time to get into the kitchen and enjoy this delightful Irish dish. With its creamy texture and savory flavors, colcannon is sure to become a favorite in your home. Happy cooking!

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