Ah, the magic of Irish Colcannon! This dish holds a special place in my heart, not just because it’s creamy and delicious, but also because of the memories it brings back from my childhood. You see, my grandmother always made this during the chilly fall months, and the aroma wafting through her cozy kitchen was just irresistible. I would hover around her like a little shadow, waiting for the moment she’d let me spoon some onto my plate.
Now, I know what you’re thinking – mashed potatoes are wonderful on their own, but when you mix in tender cabbage and vibrant green onions, it’s a whole different ballgame! It’s like a warm hug on a plate, blending tradition and comfort into one delightful dish. Plus, it’s great for using up extra cabbage you might have lying around. Let’s dive into how to make this delightful comfort food, shall we?
What’s in Irish Colcannon?
Potatoes: The star of the show! I typically use Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes for their creamy texture when mashed.
Milk (or Cream): Adds richness to the mash. For a truly indulgent experience, I recommend cream, but milk works just fine for a lighter option.
Butter: Because butter makes everything better! We’re using 4 tablespoons of this golden goodness, divided, to keep the potatoes creamy and flavorful.
Green Cabbage: This is where we bring in the nutrition! It adds a lovely crunch and is a great source of vitamins C and K.
Green Onions: These aren’t just for garnish; they add a fresh zing to the colcannon that brightens up the dish.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for bringing out all the flavors.
Is Irish Colcannon Good for You?
So, is this delicious dish nutritious? Well, yes and no!
Potatoes: They may get a bad rap sometimes, but they’re a good source of potassium and vitamin C. Just remember to watch your portion sizes if you’re keeping an eye on carbs.
Cabbage: This leafy green is a powerhouse! It’s low in calories and high in fiber, making it great for your digestive health. Plus, it’s packed with antioxidants!
Butter and Cream: While they do add that wonderful taste and texture, be mindful of their richness. You can always adjust the amount to fit your dietary needs or preferences!
This dish is best enjoyed as part of a balanced meal, perhaps alongside a hearty stew or some grilled meat.
Ingredients
– 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1/2 cup milk (or cream for a richer texture)
– 4 tbsp butter, divided
– 1 small head of green cabbage, chopped (or shredded)
– 4 green onions, finely chopped
– Salt and pepper, to taste
*Serves: 4*
How to Make Irish Colcannon?
1. In a large pot, add the peeled and cubed potatoes, covering them with cold salted water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat and cook until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
2. While the potatoes are cooking, in another pot, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped cabbage and sauté until tender, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the chopped green onions and continue cooking for another 2 minutes.
3. Once the potatoes are done, drain them and return them to the pot. Add the milk (or cream) and the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, mashing until smooth and creamy.
4. Fold in the sautéed cabbage and green onions into the mashed potatoes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve the colcannon in bowls, topping with an additional pat of butter and a sprinkle of chopped green onions if desired. Dive in and enjoy!
Delicious Tweaks and Serving Suggestions
Feel free to get creative with this recipe! You can add crispy bacon or even some shredded cheese for an extra indulgent version. If you like a kick, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat!
Colcannon is great as a side dish or even main course, especially when paired with a warm, hearty Irish stew. Trust me, this dish will become a favorite, bringing warmth and joy to your table just like it did in my grandmother’s kitchen.
I’m so excited for you to try this recipe! I would love to hear how your colcannon turns out. Share your thoughts or any tweaks you made in the comments. Happy cooking!
