There’s something heartwarming about a dish that can transport you to another place, and this creamy colcannon recipe does just that. Picture a cozy Irish kitchen where the rich aroma of buttery mashed potatoes mingles with the earthy scent of sautéed kale and vibrant green onions. This delightful side dish is not just a staple for St. Patrick’s Day; it’s perfect for any occasion you crave comfort food that’s both flavorful and nourishing. As I stand by the stove, watching the potatoes simmer to perfection, I can’t help but feel a sense of nostalgia and warmth, knowing that this colcannon will soon be gracing my table. Easy to prepare and utterly satisfying, it’s the ideal accompaniment for grilled meats, festive feasts, or even a standalone delight. Let’s dive into this comforting classic that’s bound to become a family favorite!
Why is this colcannon recipe a must-try?
Comforting Flavor: The rich, buttery texture of the mashed potatoes combined with the vibrant greens makes each bite unforgettable.
Easy Preparation: You don’t need to be a culinary expert; this dish is simple enough for any home cook.
Versatile Side Dish: Serve it with roasted meats or as a stand-alone meal, and it fits comfortably into any menu.
Nutritional Boost: Packed with fiber and vitamins, the kale elevates this comfort dish into a healthier territory.
Family Tradition: Perfect for sharing, this recipe is a great way to create cherished memories around the table.
Colcannon Recipe Ingredients
For the Mashed Potatoes
• Yukon Gold or Russet Potatoes – These starchy potatoes create the creamy base for your colcannon recipe; feel free to swap with another variety if preferred.
• Unsalted Butter – Adds a rich, buttery flavor; ghee can be used for a delicious dairy-free alternative.
• Milk – Provides necessary creaminess; any type of milk will do, or opt for buttermilk for extra taste.
For the Greens
• Chopped Kale or Cabbage – Introduces vibrant color and nutrition; Swiss chard or spinach make excellent substitutions.
• Green Onions – Offers a fresh and mild flavor, but shallots or leeks can work beautifully as replacements.
Seasoning
• Salt and Pepper – Essential for enhancing flavors; adjust according to your taste preferences.
Optional Additions
• Crispy Bacon Bits – A delightful mix-in for those who enjoy a savory crunch; perfect for elevating the dish if desired.
How to Make Colcannon
Boil the Potatoes: Begin by dicing your potatoes into uniform pieces. Place them in a large pot, cover with cold water, and bring to a boil. Cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until fork-tender.
Cook the Greens: While the potatoes are boiling, melt the unsalted butter in a separate pan over medium heat. Add chopped kale and sauté for 3-4 minutes until it begins to wilt. Stir in the green onions and cook for another minute, allowing the flavors to meld.
Mash Everything Together: Drain the potatoes once they’re tender, then add them to the pan with the cooked greens. Pour in your milk, and season with salt and pepper. Mash everything together until creamy and well-combined, ensuring a fluffy texture.
Serve: Transfer your colcannon to a lovely serving bowl, garnishing it with reserved green onions and a pat of butter for that extra touch of richness.
Optional: For a delightful crunch, sprinkle crispy bacon bits on top before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These colcannon recipes are perfect for busy weeknights and meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the mashed potatoes and sauté the greens separately up to 3 days ahead. To do this, boil and mash the potatoes, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For the greens, sauté the kale and green onions, and refrigerate them as well. When you’re ready to enjoy your colcannon, simply reheat the potatoes and greens together over low heat, adding a splash of milk to maintain that creamy texture. This way, you’ll have a comforting, delicious side dish ready in no time, just as delightful as when freshly made!
How to Store and Freeze Colcannon
Fridge: Store leftover colcannon in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Gently reheat on the stove with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
Freezer: Freeze colcannon in a resealable bag or airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave. Add a bit of milk or butter to rejuvenate the texture.
Portioning: Consider freezing in individual portions for easy access to this delicious comfort food on busy days.
Colcannon Recipe Variations
Feel free to embrace your creativity with this cozy colcannon recipe! Delight in the flavors and textures by customizing it to fit your taste buds.
- Savoy Cabbage: Swap kale for savoy cabbage for a more traditional look and taste. The soft leaves become tender, adding a subtle sweetness.
- Swiss Chard: Use Swiss chard instead of kale for a beautiful splash of color and a slightly earthy flavor. Its vibrant greens brighten up any table!
- Leeks: Replace green onions with sautéed leeks for a deeper, sweeter flavor. They offer a lovely, aromatic quality that complements the creaminess perfectly.
- Dairy-Free: For a vegan-friendly twist, replace milk with unsweetened almond or oat milk, and use coconut oil instead of butter. The richness remains, with a hint of coconut flavor!
- Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for a fragrant kick that elevates this comfort dish. Just a handful will greatly enhance the overall taste profile.
- Spicy Touch: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to give the mash a delightful zing. It’s a perfect pairing for those who enjoy a little heat!
- Bacon Bits: Mix in or top with crispy bacon bits for a savory twist that brings a delightful crunch and rich flavor to your colcannon.
- Buttermilk Bliss: Use buttermilk in place of regular milk for a tangy, richer flavor. It offers a uniquely comforting depth that you simply must try!
Expert Tips for Perfect Colcannon
• Choose the Right Potatoes: Yukon Golds yield the creamiest results. Avoid waxy potatoes which can make the mash gluey.
• Don’t Overboil: Keep an eye on boiling potatoes; overcooking leads to a watery colcannon. Aim for fork-tender perfection.
• Opt for Quality Butter: Unsalted butter enhances the dish’s flavor—experiment with European-style for a richer experience.
• Add Texture: Consider mixing in crispy bacon bits or toasted nuts for delightful crunch among the creamy mash.
• Adjust Seasoning: Start with a small amount of salt, then taste and adjust as needed to achieve the best flavor for your colcannon recipe.
What to Serve with Creamy Irish Colcannon with Kale and Green Onions?
Experience the warmth of a comforting meal with delightful pairings that bring out the rich flavors of your colcannon.
- Glazed Ham: A slightly sweet and savory ham that adds depth to the hearty mashed potatoes, creating a delightful contrast on your plate.
- Grilled Lamb Chops: Their juicy, tender meat pairs perfectly with the creamy texture of colcannon while the rosemary and garlic enhance the overall flavor.
For an added touch of freshness, serve a crisp green salad on the side. The acidity from a tangy dressing beautifully balances the richness of the colcannon.
- Roasted Root Vegetables: Carrots, parsnips, and beets provide a sweet, earthy profile that complements the creamy goodness of the colcannon.
- Crispy Bangers: Irish sausages add a savory and satisfying element, making the meal even more comforting and indulgent.
- Cider or White Wine: A refreshing hard apple cider or a light Sauvignon Blanc can elevate your dining experience, adding a sparkling note to the rich flavors.
- Bread Rolls: Soft, warm rolls are perfect for soaking up leftover colcannon and make for a truly satisfying dining experience.
- Apple Crisp: To finish your meal on a sweet note, this dessert brings warmth and texture that perfectly complements the comforting nature of the colcannon.
Creamy Irish Colcannon with Kale and Green Onions Recipe FAQs
What type of potatoes are best for colcannon?
Absolutely, for the creamiest result, I recommend using Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes. They have a high starch content that creates a luxurious texture. If you don’t have these on hand, feel free to use any starchy potato variety, but steer clear of waxy options as they can lead to a gluey mash.
How should I store leftover colcannon?
Leftover colcannon can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, gently reheat it on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or butter to bring back its creamy consistency.
Can I freeze colcannon?
Certainly! To freeze colcannon, place it in a resealable bag or airtight container and store it for up to 2 months. For best results, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating. When you’re ready, reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring often, and add a bit of milk for creaminess.
What if my colcannon turns out watery?
If your colcannon is watery, it often means the potatoes were overboiled, or not enough liquid was absorbed during mashing. Fear not! You can thicken it by returning the colcannon to the heat and cooking it gently for a few minutes to let excess moisture evaporate. Alternatively, stir in some extra mashed potatoes to absorb the liquid and get that perfect fluffy texture back.
Is colcannon suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
Yes! This colcannon recipe can easily accommodate dietary needs. For dairy-free options, swap out the butter for ghee or plant-based butter, and use almond, soy, or oat milk instead. Always check for specific allergies, especially regarding gluten or other ingredients you might be adding, like crispy bacon bits.
Can I add other greens to my colcannon?
The more the merrier! While kale is traditional, you can experiment with Swiss chard, spinach, or even savoy cabbage for different flavor profiles. Just remember to sauté them until they’re tender before mixing them with the mashed potatoes, ensuring they’re incorporated evenly into your colcannon recipe.
Delicious Colcannon Recipe with Kale for Comfort Food Bliss
Equipment
- - Large pot
- Pan
Ingredients
For the Mashed Potatoes
- 2 pounds Yukon Gold or Russet Potatoes Feel free to swap with another variety if preferred.
- 4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter Ghee can be used for a dairy-free alternative.
- 1 cup Milk Any type of milk will do, or opt for buttermilk.
For the Greens
- 4 cups Chopped Kale or Cabbage Swiss chard or spinach make excellent substitutions.
- 4 stalks Green Onions Shallots or leeks can work beautifully as replacements.
Seasoning
- to taste Salt
- to taste Pepper
Optional Additions
- 1 cup Crispy Bacon Bits Perfect for elevating the dish if desired.
Instructions
How to Make Colcannon
- Begin by dicing your potatoes into uniform pieces. Place them in a large pot, cover with cold water, and bring to a boil. Cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until fork-tender.
- While the potatoes are boiling, melt the unsalted butter in a separate pan over medium heat. Add chopped kale and sauté for 3-4 minutes until it begins to wilt. Stir in the green onions and cook for another minute, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Drain the potatoes once they’re tender, then add them to the pan with the cooked greens. Pour in your milk, and season with salt and pepper. Mash everything together until creamy and well-combined, ensuring a fluffy texture.
- Transfer your colcannon to a lovely serving bowl, garnishing it with reserved green onions and a pat of butter for that extra touch of richness.
- For a delightful crunch, sprinkle crispy bacon bits on top before serving.