Colcannon Potatoes: A Traditional Irish Side Dish with Easy Preparation Steps

Colcannon potatoes is a traditional Irish side dish that is simple to prepare yet rich in flavor. This dish combines mashed potatoes with cooked and mashed Savoy cabbage, and depending on your preference, you can add some fried chopped bacon or grated Cheddar. Let's explore how to make this delicious and comforting recipe.

The Simple Version of Colcannon Potatoes

The simplest version of colcannon potatoes is just mashed potatoes mixed with cooked and mashed Savoy cabbage. This version is straightforward and does not require any additional ingredients. Here’s how you can prepare it:

Ingredients:

2 lbs (900g) potatoes, peeled and cut into small cubes 1 large Savoy cabbage, cored and chopped 2 tablespoons milk (or more if needed for creaminess) Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Boil the cubed potatoes in a large pot until tender. Drain and return the potatoes to the pot. Mince the chopped Savoy cabbage using a food processor or a chef's knife. Add the minced cabbage to the cooked potatoes and mix well. Add the milk gradually, mashing the mixture until you achieve the desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper. Serve immediately while the colcannon is still warm and creamy.

Fancy Colcannon Potatoes

If you want to take your colcannon potatoes to the next level, you can add some fried chopped bacon or grated Cheddar. Here’s how you can incorporate these ingredients:

Adding Bacon:

For an extra crispy and flavorful touch, cook some chopped bacon in a skillet until crispy. Chop the cooked bacon into small pieces. When you are ready to serve, stir in the bacon pieces into the mashed potato and cabbage mixture just before serving.

Adding Cheddar:

Grate some Cheddar cheese with a cheese grater or food processor. When the mashed potato and cabbage mixture is ready but not too hot, stir in the grated Cheddar until fully combined.

Tips and Variations

Here are some tips and variations to enhance your colcannon experience:

Tips:

Use a food processor or ricer to achieve creamier mashed potatoes. Chill the colcannon for about 30 minutes before serving to set the flavors. Use white potatoes for a smoother texture, or brown potatoes for their natural sweetness.

Variations:

Incorporate other root vegetables like carrots or turnips for a colorful and varied texture. Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Gruyère or Comté. Use leftover Thanksgiving turkey or ham for a hearty and comforting dish.

Conclusion

Colcannon potatoes are a delightful and authentic Irish side dish that adds a touch of tradition to any meal. Whether you prefer the simple version or a fancier one with bacon and cheese, this recipe is sure to please. Give it a try and enjoy the comfort and flavor of colcannon potatoes.