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Colcannon (Irish Mashed Potatoes) Recipe

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4.1 from 13 reviews

Colcannon is a classic Irish mashed potato dish combining creamy mashed russet potatoes with tender green cabbage, scallions, and a hint of warming ground mace. This traditional comfort food is perfect as a hearty side dish, especially during colder months or festive occasions.

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings

Ingredients

Potatoes

  • 2 pounds russet potatoes (peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks)

Vegetables

  • 4 cups green cabbage (thinly sliced)
  • 3 scallions (white and green parts sliced thin)

Dairy & Seasonings

  • 3 tablespoons butter (divided)
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • Salt (to taste)
  • Pepper (to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground mace

Instructions

  1. Prepare Potatoes: Add the peeled and cut potatoes to a medium pot filled with cold, salted water. This ensures even cooking as the water and potatoes heat together.
  2. Cook Potatoes: Bring the pot to a boil over medium-high heat and cook the potatoes until fork-tender, approximately 8 to 10 minutes.
  3. Cook Cabbage: While the potatoes are boiling, heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once melted, add the thinly sliced green cabbage, season lightly with salt and pepper, and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently until tender but not mushy. Remove from heat and set aside.
  4. Prepare Cream Mixture: In a small saucepan, warm the heavy cream, remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, and sliced scallions over low heat. Heat gently until the butter melts and the mixture is warmed through, allowing flavors to meld.
  5. Mash Potatoes: Once the potatoes are done, drain them thoroughly and transfer to a large bowl. Pour in half of the warm cream and scallion mixture and begin mashing. Gradually add more cream mixture until the potatoes reach your desired smoothness and fluffiness.
  6. Combine Ingredients: Fold in the cooked cabbage and ground mace into the mashed potatoes, mixing until everything is evenly incorporated.
  7. Season & Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Optionally, garnish with fresh minced parsley for added color and flavor before serving.

Notes

  • You can substitute green cabbage with savoy or kale for a different texture.
  • For a lighter version, reduce the heavy cream or substitute with milk.
  • Make sure to not overcook the cabbage; it should remain slightly crisp for the best texture.
  • Ground mace adds a subtle warm flavor which is traditional, but you can omit it if unavailable.
  • This dish pairs wonderfully with corned beef or roasted meats.
  • Author: Daisy
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Irish