Colcannon is a traditional Irish side dish, particularly popular around Halloween, celebrating the bounty of the autumn harvest. It’s a simple, comforting mash of potatoes mixed with cooked kale or cabbage, milk/butter, and often scallions.

Prep TimeCook TimeServes
15 minutes30 minutes4-6

Part A: Ingredients

  • Potatoes: 3 lbs Starchy Potatoes (e.g., Russet or Yukon Gold), peeled and quartered.
  • Greens: 1 bunch Kale or $1/2$ medium head Cabbage, tough stems removed and shredded.
  • Dairy: 1 cup Whole Milk (or half-and-half), 6 Tbsp Unsalted Butter.
  • Aromatics: $1/4$ cup Sliced Scallions (green parts only).
  • Seasoning: Salt and freshly ground White Pepper (traditional).

Part B: Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Potatoes

  1. Place the peeled and quartered potatoes in a large pot. Cover with cold, salted water.
  2. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20โ€“25 minutes until the potatoes are fork-tender.
  3. Drain the potatoes thoroughly and let them sit in the colander for 5 minutes to steam-dry.

Step 2: Prepare the Greens and Dairy

  1. While the potatoes are boiling, melt 2 Tbsp of butter in a large skillet.
  2. Add the shredded kale or cabbage and a pinch of salt. Sautรฉ over medium heat until the greens are tender but still bright green (about 5-7 minutes).
  3. In a small saucepan, combine the milk, remaining 4 Tbsp butter, and the sliced scallions. Heat gently until the butter is melted and the milk is warm (do not boil).

Step 3: Mash and Combine

  1. Return the drained, hot potatoes to the dry pot. Mash them well until smooth (or to your desired consistency).
  2. Slowly pour the warm milk/butter mixture over the mashed potatoes, mixing with a wooden spoon or spatula until the potatoes are creamy and light.

Step 4: Finish the Colcannon

  1. Fold the sautรฉed kale or cabbage into the creamy mashed potatoes.
  2. Season generously with salt and white pepper. Mix until the greens are evenly distributed.

Step 5: Serve

  • Serve the Colcannon immediately, often served with a well or “dimple” created in the center, filled with a small pool of melted butter. It is the perfect accompaniment to ham, corned beef, or the roasted pork from Vepล™o Knedlo Zelo!

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