Traditional Irish Colcannon

by

A Timeless Classic from the Emerald Isle

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Preparation Phase & Tools To Use

Tools Needed:

  • Large pot for boiling potatoes
  • Skillet for sautéing cabbage and onions
  • Potato masher or ricer
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Kitchen knife and cutting board

Ingredients and Their Roles

  • Potatoes (1.5 kg or about 3.3 lbs) – The base of the dish, providing a creamy texture.
  • Kale or Savoy cabbage (400g or about 14 oz) – Adds a sweet, earthy flavor and a vibrant green color.
  • Leeks or green onions (1 cup, chopped) – Offer a mild onion flavor.
  • Milk (1 cup) – Adds creaminess to the potatoes.
  • Butter (4 tablespoons, divided) – Used for sautéing and enriching the potatoes for a silky finish.
  • Salt and pepper (to taste) – For seasoning.
  • Fresh parsley, chives, or green onions (for garnish) – Adds freshness and color.

Step-By-Step Instructions

  1. Preparation:
    • Peel the potatoes and cut them into even chunks.
    • Rinse the kale or cabbage and chop it finely.
    • Chop the leeks or green onions.
  2. Cook the Potatoes:
    • Place the potatoes in a large pot of salted water. Bring to a boil, then simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until tender.
    • Drain and return to the pot. Add half of the butter and the milk, then mash until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  3. Cook the Greens:
    • While the potatoes are cooking, heat the remaining butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the leeks or green onions and the cabbage, sautéing until the cabbage is soft and the onions are translucent.
  4. Combine:
    • Fold the sautéed greens into the mashed potatoes until well combined. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
  5. Serve:
    • Transfer to a serving dish. Garnish with chopped parsley, chives, or green onions. Dot with additional butter if desired.

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Timing & Nutritional Information

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Servings: 6
  • Kcal: Approximately 250-300 kcal per serving

Nutritional Information & Health Benefits: Colcannon is rich in vitamins A and C, thanks to the kale or cabbage, and provides a good source of fiber and potassium from the potatoes. This dish can be part of a heart-healthy diet when consumed in moderation and made with low-fat milk and less butter.

Common Mistakes To Avoid & How to Perfect the Recipe

  • Overcooking the Greens: Sauté just until they are soft to preserve color and nutrients.
  • Lumpy Potatoes: Ensure the potatoes are fully cooked before mashing to achieve a creamy texture.
  • Underseasoning: Properly season with salt and pepper to enhance the flavors of all ingredients.

Conclusion

This Traditional Irish Colcannon recipe brings a piece of Irish heritage to your table. Perfect for St. Patrick’s Day or any day you crave comfort food, its creamy texture and rich flavors celebrate the simple yet profound pleasures of traditional cooking. Enjoy the warmth and comfort of this classic dish with your loved ones.

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