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Irish Colcannon Potatoes

If you’re looking for a warm, creamy, and utterly comforting potato dish, Colcannon is the ultimate Irish classic. Made with fluffy mashed potatoes, sautéed cabbage (or kale), crispy bacon, and butter, Colcannon is rich, hearty, and packed with flavor.

Ingredients

For the Mashed Potatoes:

  • 2 lbs russet or Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 4 tablespoons butter (plus extra for serving)
  • ½ cup heavy cream (or whole milk)
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional, but enhances flavor)

For the Sautéed Greens:

  • 4 slices bacon, chopped (or 2 tablespoons butter for a vegetarian version)
  • 1 ½ cups green cabbage or kale, finely shredded
  • ½ cup green onions, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)

For Garnish (Optional):

  • Extra butter, melted on top
  • Fresh parsley or chives
  • More black pepper

Instructions

1. Boil the Potatoes

  • In a large pot, add cubed potatoes and cover with cold water.
  • Bring to a boil and cook for 15-18 minutes until potatoes are fork-tender.
  • Drain and return potatoes to the warm pot.

2. Sauté the Greens & Bacon

  • In a large skillet, cook chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy.
  • Remove bacon and set aside, leaving some bacon drippings in the pan.
  • Add cabbage (or kale) and green onions to the skillet.
  • Sauté for 3-5 minutes until softened.

3. Mash the Potatoes

  • Add butter, heavy cream, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg to the warm potatoes.
  • Mash until smooth and creamy.

4. Combine Everything

  • Fold in the sautéed greens and crispy bacon.
  • Stir until everything is well incorporated.

5. Serve & Garnish

  • Spoon into a serving bowl and make a small well in the center.

  • Add extra melted butter on top (because why not?!).

  • Sprinkle with fresh parsley, chives, or extra black pepper.

  • Serve warm and enjoy this Irish classic!

Notes

Tips for the Best Colcannon

✅ Use Yukon Gold potatoes – They are naturally buttery and creamy.
✅ Don’t over-mash – Overworking the potatoes can make them gluey.
✅ Sauté the greens well – This removes bitterness and adds flavor.
✅ Keep it warm – Serve immediately or keep warm over low heat.
✅ Customize it! – Swap cabbage for kale or add more crispy bacon!

  • Author: niold.com