Real Irish Colcannon is a warm and hearty dish made with creamy mashed potatoes and fresh green cabbage. It’s comfort food that’s perfect for chilly days!
Honestly, who doesn’t love a big scoop of buttery potatoes? I could eat this every day, especially when I mix in a little bit of cheese for extra fun! 🧀
Making colcannon is super easy! Just mash some potatoes, stir in cooked cabbage, and add a splash of milk. Serve it up, and I guarantee seconds will be requested!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: Choose a starchy variety like Russets for a creamy texture. I find they mash beautifully! If you want a healthier option, try using sweet potatoes instead.
Cabbage or Kale: Green cabbage is traditional, but kale adds a nice twist. If you have other leafy greens like Swiss chard, those can work too—just chop them finely.
Green Onions: These bring a fresh touch. You can swap them with regular onions, but make sure to sauté them first to soften their flavor.
Milk or Cream: Full-fat milk makes it creamy, but if you’re vegan, use plant-based alternatives like almond milk or coconut cream for a rich taste!
Butter: Unsalted butter allows you total control over the seasoning. If you prefer a dairy-free option, try using vegan butter or olive oil instead.
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Mashed Potato Consistency?
The key to smooth mashed potatoes is all in the mashing technique! After cooking, make sure to drain the potatoes well, then return them to the warm pot. This helps any excess moisture evaporate.
- Add the butter and milk before mashing to help soften the potatoes and control the texture.
- Use a potato masher or a ricer for the fluffiest results. Avoid a blender or food processor, as they can create a gluey texture.
- Mix until just combined and avoid overworking to keep them light and fluffy.
How to Make Real Irish Colcannon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Colcannon:
- 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and diced
- 4 cups shredded green cabbage or kale
- 4 green onions, finely chopped
- ½ cup milk or cream
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This comforting dish will take about 30 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend around 15-20 minutes boiling the potatoes and blanching the greens, plus an additional 5-10 minutes for mashing and mixing everything together. It’s a quick and easy recipe that brings warmth and flavor to your table!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Potatoes:
Start by placing the diced potatoes in a large pot and covering them with cold water. Sprinkle a pinch of salt into the water for flavor. Turn the heat to high and bring the pot to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, reduce the heat to a simmer and cook the potatoes until they’re tender, which should take about 15-20 minutes.
2. Blanching the Greens:
While the potatoes are cooking, grab another pot and bring water to a rolling boil. Add the shredded cabbage or kale to the boiling water and let it blanch for about 3-4 minutes, until it’s tender but still vibrant. Once done, drain the greens and set them aside for later.
3. Mashing the Potatoes:
After the potatoes are soft, drain them well and return them to the pot. Add 2 tablespoons of butter and the milk or cream. Mash everything together until the potatoes are smooth and creamy. You want a nice, fluffy texture here!
4. Mixing It All Together:
Now it’s time to mix in the veggies! Stir the blanched cabbage or kale and the chopped green onions into the mashed potatoes. Season your dish with salt and pepper to taste, making it as flavorful as you like.
5. Serving the Colcannon:
Dish out your delicious colcannon while it’s warm. Top each serving with the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, letting it melt beautifully over the potatoes before you dig in. Enjoy your authentic Irish Colcannon—it’s hearty, comforting, and full of flavor!
Can I Use Other Types of Greens Instead of Cabbage or Kale?
Absolutely! While traditional Collcannon uses cabbage or kale, you can substitute with spinach or even Swiss chard for a different flavor and texture. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as tender greens like spinach will require only about 1-2 minutes of blanching.
How Do I Make Colcannon Dairy-Free?
If you’re looking to make a dairy-free version, you can substitute the milk or cream with a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk. For the butter, try using vegan butter or olive oil to achieve that creamy richness without the dairy!
How to Store Leftover Colcannon?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove with a splash of milk or water to help restore the creamy texture. You can also microwave it, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Can I Add Other Ingredients to Colcannon?
Absolutely! Colcannon is quite versatile. Feel free to mix in other ingredients like cooked bacon or ham for added flavor, or even incorporate garlic for an extra kick. Just remember to adjust the seasoning if you add salty items!
