Description
Creamy, hearty, and steeped in Irish tradition, Traditional Irish Colcannon is a comforting blend of buttery mashed potatoes and tender greens like cabbage or kale. It’s the ultimate side dish for cozy dinners, festive holidays, or quick weeknight meals. This easy recipe is perfect for anyone seeking satisfying dinner ideas, healthy side dishes, or quick comfort food with just a few basic ingredients. Naturally gluten-free and adaptable, it’s a must-have for your collection of easy recipes and food ideas.
Ingredients
2 pounds starchy potatoes (Russet or Yukon Gold), peeled and cubed
1 small head of cabbage or 3 cups kale, finely chopped
1 cup whole milk, warmed
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, plus extra for serving
4 scallions, thinly sliced
Salt, to taste
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Pinch of nutmeg or garlic powder (optional)
Instructions
1. Peel and cube the potatoes, then place them in a large pot with salted cold water. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer for 15–20 minutes until tender.
2. While the potatoes cook, finely chop the cabbage or kale. Sauté the greens in 1 tablespoon butter over medium heat until softened, about 5–8 minutes. Add scallions near the end.
3. Drain the cooked potatoes and return them to the pot. Mash using a masher or ricer until smooth.
4. Warm the milk with the remaining butter in a small saucepan until melted. Gradually stir into the mashed potatoes.
5. Fold in the sautéed greens and scallions gently. Season with salt, pepper, and optional nutmeg or garlic powder.
6. Transfer to a serving bowl and top with a knob of butter. Serve warm.
Notes
Use starchy potatoes like Russets for the fluffiest mash.
Always warm milk before adding to avoid cooling down the mash.
Fold in greens gently to preserve the light texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Boiling, Mashing
- Cuisine: Irish
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 22mg