Colcannon Potatoes
Creamy, hearty Irish-inspired mashed potatoes mixed with tender cabbage and scallions, perfect for comforting family dinners or festive occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pare potatoes and cut each into quarters.
- In a medium saucepan, bring 1/2 inch boiling water with 1 teaspoon salt to a boil.
- Add potatoes to the boiling water, cover, and cook for 15 to 20 minutes, or until fork-tender and completely cooked.
- Drain the potatoes.
- Return the pan to low heat and shake to dry the potatoes.
- In a large bowl, mash the potatoes.
- Add coarsely shredded green cabbage, sliced scallions, milk, margarine, and pepper.
- Mix well until all ingredients are combined and creamy.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using heavy cream instead of milk. You can also substitute kale for cabbage for a different flavor, or add cooked bacon for a savory twist. Be sure to use a starchy potato variety, like Russets, for the best mash. Don't over-mash; you want a fluffy consistency, not gummy. This dish is a great way to explore vegetarian recipes while enjoying hearty comfort food.
Serving Suggestions
Colcannon potatoes make a delightful side dish for roasted meats or fish. Serve them alongside corned beef for a traditional Irish meal, or pair them with sautéed greens for a vegetarian option. Top with additional sliced scallions or a pat of butter for extra richness. This dish also pairs beautifully with Squirrel And Squirrel Gravy for a comforting, hearty experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the colcannon in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. You can add a splash of milk or a bit of margarine to help restore creaminess while reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Colcannon Potatoes contains roughly 1533 calories, with 18g protein, 172g carbohydrates, and 86g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (86% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (70% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (52% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 519mg per serving (23% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make colcannon potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare colcannon potatoes ahead of time! Simply follow the recipe, allow them to cool, and store in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a bit of milk or margarine if needed to restore creaminess.
What type of potatoes work best for colcannon?
Starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds are ideal for colcannon as they create a light, fluffy mash. Waxy potatoes won't yield the same creamy texture, so it's best to avoid them for this dish. The starchiness of the potatoes helps absorb the flavors of the cabbage and scallions.
Can I add other vegetables to colcannon potatoes?
Absolutely! You can customize colcannon by adding other vegetables such as shredded carrots, cooked peas, or even sautéed leeks. Just be mindful of the cooking times to ensure everything is tender before mashing. This versatility makes colcannon a fun dish to experiment with!
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).