Traditional Irish Colcannon

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If comfort had a flavor, it might just be Traditional Irish Colcannon. This rustic Irish dish is a creamy, buttery blend of mashed potatoes, green cabbage, and scallions. It’s hearty and satisfying, the kind of food that warms you up from the inside out. Whether served as a side for your Sunday roast or the star of your St. Patrick’s Day table, Colcannon has a timeless charm that never fades.

Colcannon’s roots reach back centuries, often tied to Halloween traditions in Ireland where charms were hidden in the mash to predict one’s future. Today, it’s beloved year-round for its simple ingredients and unbeatable flavor. When done right, each forkful brings you a taste of the Irish countryside with wholesome, earthy ingredients and a rich, buttery mouthfeel.

Why You’ll Love This Traditional Irish Colcannon

This recipe is a nostalgic favorite that feels both familiar and unique. The combination of fluffy potatoes and tender cabbage is elevated by butter and a touch of cream, making it silky and indulgent. It’s naturally gluten-free, budget-friendly, and perfect for family dinners or potlucks. Plus, you can easily customize it with kale, leeks, or even crispy bacon bits for extra flavor.

What Kind of Potatoes Should I Use for Colcannon?

The best potatoes for Colcannon are high-starch varieties like Russets or Yukon Golds. These types yield the fluffiest, creamiest mash. Avoid waxy potatoes like red or fingerling potatoes, as they don’t break down as easily and can make the dish dense and gluey. Yukon Golds are a particularly good choice if you want a rich, buttery taste without adding too much extra fat.

Ingredients for the Traditional Irish Colcannon

To get the perfect balance of creamy and flavorful, it’s all about choosing the right ingredients and giving each one the love it deserves. Here are the essentials:

• Potatoes: The heart of Colcannon, these should be starchy for the best mash.
• Green Cabbage: Adds earthiness and a soft crunch that complements the potatoes.
• Scallions: Lends a gentle onion flavor and bright green flecks throughout.
• Butter: Rich, creamy butter is key to making this dish taste luxurious.
• Heavy Cream: Helps loosen the mash and adds extra richness.
• Salt: Essential for seasoning your potatoes properly.
• Pepper: Adds just a hint of warmth to round everything out.

How To Make the Traditional Irish Colcannon

Step 1: Boil the Potatoes

Peel and chop your potatoes into chunks. Place them in a large pot of cold, salted water. Bring to a boil and cook until fork tender, about 15-20 minutes.

Step 2: Cook the Cabbage

While the potatoes are boiling, shred the cabbage and cook it in a skillet with 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Sauté until soft and slightly golden, about 8 minutes.

Step 3: Warm the Cream and Butter

In a small saucepan, gently heat the cream and remaining butter until melted and warm. Don’t let it boil—you just want it warmed through.

Step 4: Mash and Combine

Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Mash until smooth. Stir in the warm cream mixture, followed by the cooked cabbage and sliced scallions. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Serve Hot

Scoop the Colcannon into a serving bowl and make a small well in the center. Drop in a knob of butter and let it melt. Serve piping hot.

Serving and Storing This Traditional Irish Colcannon

Traditional Irish Colcannon is best served warm, right after preparing it. It’s a great side dish for roasted meats, stews, or even on its own topped with an egg. This recipe serves about 6 people as a side.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of cream or milk to keep it soft and creamy.

What to Serve With Traditional Irish Colcannon?

Roast Chicken

The buttery texture of Colcannon pairs beautifully with juicy roast chicken and a bit of pan gravy.

Irish Sausages

Try bangers and Colcannon for a traditional and comforting Irish meal.

Beef Stew

Serve a ladle of rich beef stew over a scoop of Colcannon for a complete and satisfying dinner.

Corned Beef

Perfect for St. Patrick’s Day, Colcannon is the ideal companion to salty, tender corned beef.

Fried Eggs

For a hearty breakfast or brunch, top a warm bowl of Colcannon with a fried egg and a dash of hot sauce.

Grilled Pork Chops

The creamy potatoes make a great base for smoky, seared pork chops.

Seared Salmon

Balance the richness of the mash with a crispy-skinned salmon fillet.

Mushroom Gravy

Keep it vegetarian with a luscious mushroom gravy poured over your Colcannon.

Want More Potato Side Dish Ideas?

If you loved this Traditional Irish Colcannon, you might want to explore more cozy, carb-loving dishes like these:

• Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe for a pasta-meets-potato weeknight dream.
• Loaded Scalloped Potatoes Recipe if you’re craving cheesy and comforting layers.
• Baked Potatoes in Foil with Parmesan Ranch Sauce for an easy twist on a classic.
• Cheesy Brussels Sprout Bake for a veggie-rich side that feels indulgent.
• Southern Honey Butter Cornbread Poppers if you love something sweet and savory on the side.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest side dish board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use kale instead of cabbage? Add bacon or keep it classic?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook with heart.

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