Colcannon (Irish Mashed Potatoes)

Colcannon (Irish Mashed Potatoes) is a traditional Irish dish that combines creamy mashed potatoes with tender, flavorful cabbage and bacon. This simple yet comforting recipe offers a hearty and versatile side dish (think bangers and mash), and is perfect for any occasion mashed potatoes would be served.

My version of Colcannon features some chopped parsley and kale mixed so there's still a bright dark green after the color of the cabbage fades away.

What Is Colcannon?

Made from mashed Irish potatoes and cabbage with a crisp bacon garnish, Colcannon is believed to have originated in the 17th century. It was traditionally served on Halloween as part of a larger meal.

Colcannon is deeply rooted in Irish culinary tradition. Traditionally, this Irish cabbage and potatoes dish would be enjoyed during the winter months and often served on holidays like Halloween and St. Patrick's Day.

A ring would be buried inside, and the finder was considered most likely to marry in the upcoming year! Colcannon is a true embodiment of Irish comfort food.

Now, I bet you're wondering what the difference between Colcannon and Champ are. Well, Champ uses green onions as the mix-in, and Colcannon uses cabbage and bacon, and sometimes kale and parsley if the cook chooses to (like me)!

Today, it remains a beloved dish in Ireland and beyond, enjoyed for its nostalgic charm and delicious combination of textures and flavors.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This recipe offers a taste of Irish comfort food tradition in every delicious bite. The combination of creamy mashed potatoes and tender, flavorful cabbage and dark green kale creates is easy-to-make and versatile.

Perfect for cozy nights in, potlucks, or as a side dish for various roasted, grilled, or baked meats and fish.

• Simple and Comforting: Made with basic pantry staples, Colcannon offers a comforting and familiar taste. The creamy mashed potatoes melt in your mouth, while the slightly sweet and savory cabbage and crisp bacon add texture and flavor.
• Budget-Friendly: Featuring affordable and easily available ingredients, Colcannon is a cost-effective way to create a delicious and nourishing meal.
• Comforting and Versatile: It's a warm and satisfying side dish, perfect for cozy nights in or potluck gatherings or casual entertaining. It pairs well with various proteins like sausages, roasted meats, or even fish, making it a versatile addition to your meal repertoire.

Ingredients You'll Need

Russet potatoes cook up nice and dry for fluffy mashed potatoes. The trick is to drain the potatoes as soon as they are fork tender, then let them sit in the drained pot covered for another 15-20 minutes to dry up some more. You can use white or black pepper, but white pepper keeps black specks out of the final dish.

I love adding some dark green kale (or even collards) to my cabbage mix, as they stay dark, bright green. Green cabbage will gradually fade to almost the same color as the mashed potatoes.

If you're vegetarian, simply omit the fried crisp bacon, or substitute it with a plant based alternative. Remember, EVERYTHING is better with bacon though!

Full ingredient amounts and preparation instructions are in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

• Potatoes - Russets or even Yukon Golds will make great Colcannon.
• Water - To boil the potatoes in.
• Salt - Divided, this portion is for the pot of boiling potatoes.
• Bacon - Optional, but eh, not optional, lol!
• Cabbage - Regular green cabbage, about ½ of a small head.
• Kale - I prefer the Lacinato kale, it reminds me for some reason of dragons (??). Red or curly kale is great also.
• Milk - Regular whole milk, or if you want to live more dangerously, half & half for even richer mash potatoes.
• Butter - Some to mix into the potatoes when mashing, and some to add to the serving bowl.
• Parsley - Chopped for garnish.
• Salt - For boiling the potatoes and also for seasoning the final dish.
• Pepper - Ground white pepper is prettier (even though it DOES smell like dirty gym socks), but ground black pepper is OK as well.

How To Make Colcannon Potatoes

This traditional Irish Colcannon recipe overview guides you through the process of creating authentic Irish mashed potatoes and cabbage. It's a savory Irish favorite that can be served with anything you usually serve plain mashed potatoes with!

So, grab some potatoes and get ready to experience the taste of Ireland!

Boil The Potatoes

1. Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add the salt and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. Drain the water and return the potatoes to the pot.

Fry The Bacon Crispy

2. While the potatoes are cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the bacon strips and fry until crispy.
3. Transfer to paper towels so excess grease gets absorbed. Once cooled, crumble the bacon into medium large chunks.
4. Reserve 2 tablespoons of the bacon grease for the cabbage and kale.

Saute The Cabbage and Kale

5. Using reserved bacon grease, add the shredded cabbage and kale to the skillet.
6. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and slightly wilted. Set aside uncovered.

Mash The Potatoes

7. Add the butter and milk to the potatoes and mash until mostly smooth, leaving some small chunks for texture. Season with black pepper to taste.

Fold In The Cabbage and Kale

8. Fold the cooked cabbage and kale into the mashed potatoes. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
9. Transfer the mash potatoes to a serving bowl, make a well in the center for the butter, and garnish with the chopped parsley and crumbled bacon.

Substitutions and Variations

Here are a few delicious variations or substitutions when making this recipe.

• You can substitute Yukon Gold potatoes for russet potatoes for a slightly different flavor and texture.
• For a richer flavor, use heavy cream instead of milk.
• Add a pinch of dried herbs like thyme or chives for a touch of extra flavor.

Tips for Success

Here are a few tips for making this traditional Colcannon recipe:

• Use starchy potatoes like russet potatoes for the best mashing results.
• Don't overcook the potatoes, as they will become mushy.
• Don't overcook the cabbage and kale, you want them bright and still slightly firm.
• Mash the potatoes while they are hot for a smoother texture.
• Be gentle when folding in the cabbage and kale to avoid breaking it down too much.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with classic Irish fare like bangers and mash, a comforting dish featuring sausages served atop a bed of mashed potatoes. For a more substantial option, consider roast lamb or braised beef short ribs. Colcannon potatoes also pairs well with lighter options like grilled salmon or baked chicken.

• Serve Colcannon alongside roasted meats, stews, or sausages.
• Enjoy it for a light lunch or minus the crisp bacon, a hearty vegetarian main course.
• Top it with a fried egg or dollop of sour cream for an extra layer of flavor and richness.

Related Recipes

• Traditional Irish Champs
• Dutch Oven Corned Beef
• Irish Soda Bread with Raisins
• Cabbage Varieties - All Super Foods
• Slow Cooker Baked Apples with Cranberry Stuffing
• Blarney Stones Bars

Equipment

Storage Options

• Leftover Colcannon can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.
• Colcannon can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

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