Colcannon

Colcannon, the traditional Irish mashed potatoes, is a dish that warms both the heart and the belly. This delightful recipe combines creamy potatoes with the goodness of greens and a cheesy twist that takes it to another level. It’s perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or even a cozy night at home. Trust me, once you try this Colcannon recipe, you’ll want to make it again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Colcannon (Irish Mashed Potatoes) Recipe

Colcannon is more than just mashed potatoes; it’s a dish full of warmth and tradition. The creamy texture mixed with savory flavors makes it a favorite. Not to mention, adding sharp cheddar gives it an irresistible cheesy twist! It’s comforting and satisfying, making it the perfect companion for any meal.

A Taste of Tradition with a Cheesy Twist

Picture this: velvety mashed potatoes, rich with flavor, complemented by tender leafy greens and sharp cheddar cheese. It’s a delightful blend that brings a taste of Ireland to your kitchen. This dish is not only great for special occasions but also brightens up any ordinary day. Your family and friends will be impressed with this classic recipe that feels both warm and inviting.

Ingredients

To make this delicious Colcannon, you will need the following ingredients:

• 2 medium russet potatoes (426 g)
• 2 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt, divided
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (56 g)
• 1/2 bunch leafy greens (kale, cabbage, or spinach), roughly chopped (57.5 g)
• 3 scallions (green part only), roughly chopped (36 g)
• 3 1/2 ounces aged Irish cheddar, shredded (99.22 g)
• 1/2 cup milk (122 g)
• 3 tablespoons heavy whipping cream (45 g)
• 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper

These simple ingredients come together to create a dish full of flavor and comfort.

How to Prepare Colcannon

Prepare the Potatoes

Start by preparing the potatoes. You can peel them if you prefer a smoother texture, but leaving the skins on adds more flavor. Rinse the potatoes to remove any dirt, and then cut them into 1-inch chunks. Place the potato pieces in a large pot. Add about 2 teaspoons of kosher salt and cover the potatoes with cold water.

Boil the Potatoes

Put the pot on the stove and cover it. Heat it over medium-high heat. Once the water comes to a boil, remove the lid. Reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Cook the potatoes until a knife easily slips into them, which usually takes about 5 to 10 minutes. This step is crucial for getting the right texture for your Colcannon.

Drain and Mash

After boiling, drain the potatoes using a colander. Then, return them to the pot. Add the 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter to the hot potatoes. Using a potato masher, mash the potatoes to your desired consistency. Some like them smooth, while others prefer a bit of texture. You do you!

Heat the Dairy

Next, take a small pot or use the microwave to heat the milk and heavy whipping cream. Warm them until they’re steamy but not boiling. This step helps to ensure that your Colcannon stays creamy and smooth.

Combine Ingredients

Now it’s time to combine everything! Pour the hot milk and cream mixture into the mashed potatoes. Add the chopped greens, scallions, shredded cheddar cheese, the remaining salt, and the black pepper. Gently fold all the ingredients together. Cook over low heat just until the greens are tender. This helps meld all those wonderful flavors together.

Tips For Success

• Choose the Right Potatoes: Use starchy potatoes like russet for the best creamy texture.
• Heat the Dairy: Make sure your milk and cream are hot when added. This helps achieve that perfect smooth consistency.
• Cheese Adjustment: Feel free to adjust the amount of cheese based on your taste preference. More cheese means more flavor!

Proper Storage

If you happen to have leftovers (though I doubt it!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. If the potatoes seem too thick, add a splash of milk to bring them back to life.

Variations

Colcannon is versatile, so don’t be afraid to get creative! Here are a few fun variations:

• Change the Greens: Instead of kale or cabbage, you could use broccoli or peas for a different taste.
• Cheese Variety: Try different types of cheese, like Gouda or Gruyère. Each will give a unique flavor to your dish.

Pairing Ideas

Colcannon is a wonderful side dish that pairs beautifully with many main courses. It goes especially well with roasted meats, such as corned beef or pork chops. You can also serve it alongside hearty stews for a complete meal. The creamy texture and savory taste make it a perfect addition to any dinner plate.

FAQs

1. Can I make Colcannon ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and just reheat it before serving. It will still taste fantastic!

2. What greens can I use for Colcannon?
You can use various greens like kale, cabbage, spinach, or even a mix of them for added flavor.

3. Is Colcannon suitable for vegetarians?
Yes! This recipe is vegetarian-friendly since it contains no meat. It’s a delicious way to enjoy veggies.

4. Can I freeze Colcannon?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Just remember to reheat it thoroughly before serving.

Conclusion

Making Colcannon is more than just cooking; it’s about embracing a piece of Irish culture. With its creamy texture and cheesy flavor, this dish is sure to become a beloved favorite in your home. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a cozy dinner, Colcannon brings comfort and joy to the table. So, why not give it a try today? Enjoy the warm, comforting flavors of this classic side dish, and share it with loved ones!

More Easy Appetizers & Snacks Recipes:

• Bacon Deviled Eggs
• Easter Trifle
• Strawberry Fluff Salad Dip
• Carrot Souffle

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Colcannon

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Colcannon is a traditional Irish dish that features creamy mashed potatoes blended with leafy greens and sharp cheddar, making it a comforting and satisfying side dish.

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 medium russet potatoes (426 g)
• 2 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt, divided
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (56 g)
• 1/2 bunch leafy greens (kale, cabbage, or spinach), roughly chopped (57.5 g)
• 3 scallions (green part only), roughly chopped (36 g)
• 3 1/2 ounces aged Irish cheddar, shredded (99.22 g)
• 1/2 cup milk (122 g)
• 3 tablespoons heavy whipping cream (45 g)
• 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper

Instructions

• Prepare the potatoes: Peel or leave the skins on, rinse, and cut into 1-inch chunks. Place in a large pot, add salt, and cover with cold water.
• Boil the potatoes: Bring to a boil, then simmer until tender (about 5-10 minutes).
• Drain and mash: Drain the potatoes, return to the pot, and add butter. Mash to desired consistency.
• Heat the dairy: Warm the milk and cream until steamy.
• Combine ingredients: Mix the warm dairy with mashed potatoes, greens, scallions, cheddar, salt, and pepper. Cook over low heat until greens are tender.

Notes

Use starchy potatoes like russet for the best creamy texture.
Ensure dairy is hot before adding to achieve smooth consistency.
Adjust cheese to personal taste for more flavor.

• Author: Rachael
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Boiling and Mashing
• Cuisine: Irish

Nutrition

• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 2
• Sodium: 450
• Fat: 12
• Saturated Fat: 7
• Unsaturated Fat: 4
• Trans Fat: 0
• Carbohydrates: 33
• Fiber: 3
• Protein: 7
• Cholesterol: 30