If you are craving a comforting, hearty dish that brings together creamy potatoes and vibrant greens in a delicious harmony, then this Colcannon Potatoes Recipe is exactly what you need. This classic Irish favorite transforms simple ingredients like russet potatoes, kale, and green onions into a luscious, velvety mash that warms the soul. Whether you’re serving it as a cozy side or a centerpiece for a family meal, this dish boasts a perfect balance of buttery richness and fresh earthiness that never fails to impress.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Preparing Colcannon potatoes is delightfully straightforward, involving everyday ingredients that each bring something special to the table. The russet potatoes provide a fluffy, creamy base, while kale adds a subtle bitterness and gorgeous splash of green. Butter and milk ensure a silky texture, and garlic with green onions infuse layers of savory depth.
- 2 ¼ lbs. Russet potatoes: Opt for starchy potatoes to guarantee a light, fluffy mash that absorbs flavors beautifully.
- 4 Tbsp. butter (salted): Adds rich, creamy flavor and smoothness to the dish.
- 3-4 cups kale: Fresh kale contributes a lovely texture and a burst of vibrant color.
- ¼ cup green onions: Provides a mild, oniony bite that complements the greens perfectly.
- 2 cloves garlic: Finely minced to lend a gentle aroma and subtle savory kick.
- 1 cup milk: Regular or non-dairy alternative for creamy consistency and mild sweetness.
- 2 tsp. salt (divided): Enhances and balances the natural flavors of all ingredients.
How to Make Colcannon Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Potatoes
Start by adding the peeled and chunked russet potatoes to a large pot or a 5-6 quart Dutch oven. Cover them with water so they’re submerged by at least an inch and sprinkle in one teaspoon of salt. Bring the water to a boil, then let the potatoes cook for about 15 to 20 minutes until they become fork-tender. Once cooked, carefully drain the potatoes in a colander and set aside.
Step 2: Wilt the Greens
Use the same pot to melt the butter over medium heat. Toss in the chopped kale and cook for around 3 to 4 minutes, allowing the greens to soften and release their moisture. Add the green onions and minced garlic next, stirring them in for an extra minute to awaken those fresh, fragrant flavors that brighten up the dish.
Step 3: Add Milk and Season
Pour the cup of milk into the pot with the wilted greens and use a wooden spoon or spatula to scrape any bits stuck to the bottom; they’re full of flavor! Sprinkle in the remaining teaspoon of salt to balance the taste, and gently warm everything together so it melds into a lovely creamy base.
Step 4: Mash It All Together
Return the cooked potatoes to the pot with the buttered greens and milk. Using a potato masher or a large fork, mash everything together until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy with delicious flecks of kale and green onion woven throughout. Serve while warm for the best experience.
How to Serve Colcannon Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of finely chopped fresh parsley on top brightens the dish with a pop of color and subtle freshness. You can also tuck in a pat of butter on top for an extra indulgent finish that melts right into the mash.
Side Dishes
Colcannon potatoes pair beautifully with roasted meats like chicken or pork, as well as hearty sausages for a traditional Irish feel. They also work well alongside steamed vegetables or a crisp salad to add textural contrast and balance.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving your Colcannon Potatoes Recipe in individual ramekins topped with crispy fried onions or even shredded sharp cheddar cheese. You can also turn it into a shepherd’s pie base by adding ground meat and baking it with a golden crust on top.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Colcannon potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making it a great dish to enjoy again with minimal effort.
Freezing
You can freeze Colcannon potatoes, but keep in mind that the texture of the kale might change slightly. Place the cooled mash in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the mashed potatoes gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of milk or a knob of butter to restore creaminess if needed.
FAQs
Can I use other greens instead of kale?
Absolutely! While kale is traditional and adds great texture, you can substitute with cabbage, spinach, or Swiss chard to give your Colcannon Potatoes Recipe a slightly different but delightful taste.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, Colcannon potatoes are naturally gluten-free as long as the ingredients you use have no added gluten-containing products. Always double-check if using any store-bought butter or milk alternatives.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
Simply swap the butter for a plant-based margarine and use a non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk. The dish remains just as creamy and flavorful without any animal products.
Can I prepare Colcannon potatoes ahead of time for a party?
Yes! You can prepare the dish a day before and store it in the refrigerator. Gently reheat just before serving, giving it a good stir and a splash of milk to refresh the creamy texture.
What is the origin of Colcannon potatoes?
Colcannon is a traditional Irish dish historically made with mashed potatoes and cabbage or kale. It was a staple in Irish kitchens and often served during celebrations like Halloween.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about the warmth and comfort that a homemade batch of Colcannon Potatoes Recipe brings to the table. This dish not only fills your belly but also your heart, with its rustic charm and rich, earthy flavors. I encourage you to dive in and make it your own—once you do, it’s bound to become one of your favorite go-to recipes for cozy gatherings or simply when you want to treat yourself to something truly satisfying.
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Colcannon Potatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Irish
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Colcannon is a traditional Irish comfort dish featuring creamy mashed potatoes mixed with sautéed kale, green onions, and garlic. This hearty recipe combines tender Russet potatoes with flavorful greens and butter, making for a delicious side dish perfect for any meal.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 2 ¼ lbs. Russet potatoes (peeled and cut into 2-inch chunks)
Dairy & Butter
- 4 Tbsp. butter (salted)
- 1 cup milk (regular or a non-dairy alternative)
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 3–4 cups kale (stems removed, coarsely chopped)
- ¼ cup green onions (chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (finely minced)
Seasoning
- 2 tsp. salt (divided)
Instructions
- Boil Potatoes: Add peeled and chunked potatoes to a large pot or 5-6 quart Dutch oven. Cover with at least 1 inch of water and add 1 teaspoon of salt. Bring to a boil and cook for 15-20 minutes until the potatoes are fork tender. Drain the potatoes in a colander.
- Sauté Greens: Melt butter in the same pot over medium heat. Add the chopped kale and cook for 3-4 minutes until the greens begin to wilt and release moisture. Stir in the chopped green onions and minced garlic and cook for an additional minute to combine flavors.
- Add Milk and Deglaze: Pour in the milk and scrape the bottom of the pot to loosen any browned bits stuck to the surface, enhancing the flavor of the dish.
- Mash and Season: Add the drained potatoes back to the pot and sprinkle with the remaining teaspoon of salt. Use a potato masher or large fork to mash the potatoes with the greens and mix everything well until creamy and combined.
- Serve: Serve the Colcannon immediately, optionally garnished with finely chopped fresh parsley for added color and freshness.
Notes
- Russet potatoes work best for a fluffy, creamy texture.
- You can substitute kale with cabbage for a more traditional Colcannon flavor.
- Adjust milk quantity to achieve your preferred mashed potato consistency.
- For a dairy-free option, use plant-based butter and non-dairy milk.
- Fresh parsley garnish adds a nice touch of color and flavor but is optional.
