Irish Colcannon
Introduction
Irish cuisine has a rich and diverse history that is deeply connected to the country's culture, landscape, and people.
One of the most beloved dishes in traditional Irish cuisine is colcannon, a simple and comforting dish made with mashed potatoes and cabbage or kale. Colcannon has been a staple of the Irish diet for centuries and is still enjoyed today, particularly during the colder months when hearty, warming dishes are especially welcome.
The dish is thought to have originated in rural Ireland as a way to stretch ingredients and create a satisfying meal from simple, inexpensive ingredients. Today, it is often served as a side dish alongside meat or fish, or as a main course with a variety of toppings and additions.
While the basic recipe for colcannon remains the same - mashed potatoes and cabbage or kale - there are many variations and additions that can be made to the dish. Some recipes include bacon or ham, while others incorporate other vegetables like leeks or onions. Some versions are topped with melted butter or grated cheese, while others are served with a side of gravy.
Irish Colcannon
Ingredients
4 Russet potatoes
1 onion, thinly sliced
1 tablespoon of brown sugar
1/2 cabbage, thinly sliced
1 cup of green onions, sliced
3 cups of milk or cream
4 tablespoons of butter
Olive oil, salt, and pepper
Potato ricer
Directions
Preheat the oven to 400 degrees.
Scrub potatoes, wrap in foil, and puncture with a fork.
Bake the potatoes in a hot oven for about an hour. When done, remove from the oven and allow to cool. When cool, cut the potatoes in half and peel.
In a large pan, add two tablespoons of olive oil and the onion. Season with salt and pepper and sauté the onion over medium heat for 5-10 minutes before sprinkling with the brown sugar.
Allow the onion to caramelize for another 10-15 minutes, stirring frequently.
Add the cabbage and the scallions and continue to sauté for another 5-10 minutes or until the cabbage is wilted and bright green. Season again with salt and pepper.
Add the butter and milk to the pan. Once the butter has melted added the potatoes. Use a potato rice or potato masher to create a smooth consistency.
Stir the potato and vegetables together until combined and heated through. Remove from the heat and serve.
Serves 4.