Irish Colcannon: More Than Mashed Potatoes
Welcome to the heartwarming world of Irish cuisine, where simple ingredients come together to create dishes that warm the soul. One such classic is Colcannon, a beloved Irish comfort food that celebrates the humble potato in all its glory. Colcannon is more than just mashed potatoes; it's a flavorful blend of creamy mashed potatoes, tender cabbage, kale, chard, or other leafy green, and the rich taste of butter. Perfect for chilly evenings or as a side dish to accompany your favorite hearty meals, Colcannon embodies the essence of comfort and tradition. Let's dive into this timeless Irish recipe and bring a taste of Ireland to your table.
Colcannon Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and quartered
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, plus more for serving
- 1 cup milk or cream
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 cups chopped kale or cabbage
- 4 green onions, thinly sliced
- Optional: crispy cooked bacon, chopped chives, or parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- Place the peeled and quartered potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a generous pinch of salt to the water.
- Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer the potatoes until they are fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- While the potatoes are cooking, melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
- Once the butter is melted, add the greens and cook until they are wilted (about 3-4 minutes).
- Add the sliced green onions to the pan and cook, stirring, for one minute.
- Once the potatoes are cooked, drain them well and add the milk or cream and butter. Mash the potatoes using a potato masher or a ricer until they are smooth and lump-free. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Fold in the cooked greens and onion mixture and stir to mix evenly.
- Serve colcannon topped with an additional pat of butter.
- If desired, garnish with crispy cooked bacon, chopped chives, or parsley.
Colcannon is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that embodies the warmth and simplicity of Irish cooking. Enjoy this comforting dish with loved ones and savor the taste of Ireland's culinary heritage.