Are you ready to elevate your side dish game with a deliciously creamy and comforting Irish classic? Look no further than colcannon, a dish that’s gained popularity worldwide for its versatility and adaptability. Traditionally made from mashed potatoes, kale or cabbage, onions, and sometimes ham or bacon, colcannon has been enjoyed in Ireland for centuries as a staple at family gatherings and celebrations.
In recent years, the humble colcannon recipe has been transformed into a plethora of creative and innovative dishes that cater to various tastes and dietary preferences. From vegan and gluten-free options to indulgent breakfast recipes and savory soups, there’s something for everyone in this delightful collection of 19 delicious colcannon recipes.
Whether you’re looking for a traditional take on the classic or want to try something new and exciting, we’ve got you covered with this comprehensive guide to the world of colcannon. So grab your apron, sharpen your knives, and get ready to join the colcannon craze!
Classic Irish Colcannon with Cabbage
This beloved Irish recipe combines mashed potatoes with sautéed cabbage and onions, creating a hearty and flavorful accompaniment to any meal. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can enjoy this comforting colcannon at home.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 1 medium head of cabbage, shredded
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Boil the potatoes in a large pot of salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
2. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot with butter, salt, and pepper. Mash until smooth.
3. In a separate pan, sauté the chopped onion and shredded cabbage in butter until the cabbage is tender and slightly caramelized.
4. Combine the cooked cabbage mixture with the mashed potatoes and stir well.
5. Serve hot alongside your favorite main course.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Garlic Butter Colcannon with Kale
This comforting side dish combines the rich flavors of garlic butter, mashed potatoes, and sautéed kale for a deliciously satisfying accompaniment to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup curly kale leaves, stems removed and discarded
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
Instructions:
1. Boil the potatoes in a large pot of salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
2. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot with butter, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mash until smooth.
3. In a separate pan, sauté the kale with a pinch of salt over medium heat until wilted, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the cooked kale to the mashed potatoes and stir until combined.
5. If desired, add heavy cream or half-and-half for an extra creamy texture.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: About 30-40 minutes total.
Cheesy Colcannon with Bacon Bits
Elevate your mashed potato game with this rich and flavorful Irish-inspired side dish. Creamy colcannon with crispy bacon bits is a perfect accompaniment to roasted meats, stews, or as a comforting snack.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Boil potatoes until tender, then drain and mash.
2. In a separate pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add heavy cream and stir until combined.
3. Gradually add mashed potatoes to the cream mixture, stirring until smooth.
4. Stir in grated cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon bits.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sweet Potato Colcannon with Leeks
A creamy, flavorful twist on traditional colcannon, this sweet potato and leek-based dish is perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes with the pungency of sautéed leeks and the richness of heavy cream.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes
– 2 medium leeks, white and light green parts only
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roast sweet potatoes: Pierce each sweet potato several times with a fork, then place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast for 45-50 minutes, or until tender when pierced.
3. Sauté leeks: In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Add leeks and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and caramelized (about 15-20 minutes).
4. Combine sweet potatoes and leeks: Mash roasted sweet potatoes in a bowl with 1 tablespoon butter, then stir in heavy cream and sautéed leeks.
5. Season to taste: Salt and pepper as needed.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Vegan Colcannon with Coconut Milk
Colcannon, a traditional Irish dish, typically consists of mashed potatoes mixed with kale or cabbage and onions. This vegan version adds a rich and creamy element with coconut milk, making it a delicious side dish for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups kale leaves, stems removed and chopped
– 1 can full-fat coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Boil the potatoes in a large pot of salted water until tender. Drain and mash with a fork.
2. In a separate pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the kale leaves to the pan and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Stir in the mashed potatoes, coconut milk, salt, and pepper.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Colcannon Soup with Crusty Bread
Warm up on a chilly day with this comforting Irish-inspired soup, infused with the creamy goodness of colcannon (mashed potatoes and kale). Serve it with crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup mashed potatoes
– 1/2 cup kale, stems removed and chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Crusty bread, for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
5. Stir in mashed potatoes and kale. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, accompanied by crusty bread.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Colcannon with Jalapeños
This twist on traditional colcannon adds a spicy kick from jalapeños, perfect for those who like a little heat. This side dish is easy to make and pairs well with roasted meats or as a topping for burgers.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups mashed potatoes
– 1/2 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: grated cheddar cheese for topping
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mashed potatoes, scallions, garlic, and chopped jalapeño.
2. Add softened butter and mix until smooth.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. If desired, top with grated cheddar cheese and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Colcannon Stuffed Bell Peppers
Add a twist to traditional bell peppers by filling them with creamy colcannon, a classic Irish dish made with mashed potatoes, kale or cabbage, and onions. This flavorful combination is sure to become a new favorite!
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 head of cabbage, chopped
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook potatoes until tender, then mash with butter, salt, and pepper.
3. Sauté chopped onion and cabbage in a pan until softened.
4. Combine mashed potatoes and sautéed cabbage mixture.
5. Cut bell peppers in half, removing seeds and membranes.
6. Stuff each pepper with the colcannon mixture and top with grated cheese (if using).
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Colcannon Pancakes with Sour Cream
Elevate your breakfast game with these fluffy pancakes infused with the comforting flavors of colcannon, a traditional Irish dish. This recipe combines the sweetness of buttermilk pancakes with the savory goodness of mashed potatoes, onions, and kale.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup mashed potatoes (colcannon)
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 1/4 cup chopped kale
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Sour cream for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, combine buttermilk, eggs, mashed potatoes, onion, kale, and melted butter. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the preheated skillet or griddle.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
7. Serve warm with a dollop of sour cream.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes per batch (depending on the number of pancakes).
Colcannon Shepherd’s Pie
This comforting dish combines the creamy goodness of colcannon (mashed potatoes with kale and onions) with the savory flavors of shepherd’s pie, perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 1 bunch of kale, stems removed and chopped
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 1 pound ground beef or lamb
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup beef broth
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook the potatoes until tender, then mash with kale, onion, salt, and pepper.
3. In a separate pan, cook the ground meat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add peas and carrots, beef broth, and butter to the pan; stir until combined.
5. Transfer the meat mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Top with the colcannon mixture, spreading evenly.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the filling is hot and the potatoes are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Colcannon and Sausage Casserole
This recipe combines the creamy goodness of colcannon (mashed potatoes with kale or cabbage) with the savory flavor of sausage, all wrapped up in a warm casserole. Perfect for a cozy night in!
Ingredients:
– 4-5 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 1 head of kale, stems removed and chopped
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 pound sweet or hot sausage (such as Irish breakfast sausage), casings removed
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Boil potatoes until tender, then mash with butter, salt, and pepper.
3. In a separate pan, cook sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with spoon as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion and kale to the pan; cook until wilted.
5. Combine mashed potatoes, sausage mixture, and cheddar cheese in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Colcannon Dumplings in Broth
This hearty recipe combines traditional Irish colcannon with the comfort of a warm broth and tender dumplings. Perfect for a cozy evening meal or as a soothing soup for when you’re feeling under the weather.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked mashed potatoes (colcannon)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1 large egg, beaten
– Vegetable broth, warmed
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine colcannon, flour, and salt.
2. Add milk and mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5 minutes until smooth.
4. Cut into small pieces and shape into dumplings.
5. Bring broth to a simmer and cook dumplings for 10-12 minutes or until they float to the surface.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Colcannon Breakfast Hash
Start your day with a twist on the classic breakfast hash, featuring creamy colcannon (mashed potatoes with kale and onions) and crispy bacon. This comforting dish is perfect for a chilly morning or a lazy Sunday brunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 large Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cups curly kale leaves, stems removed and discarded
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 large eggs
Instructions:
1. Boil the potatoes until tender, then mash with butter, salt, and pepper.
2. In a pan, sauté the diced onion and kale until wilted.
3. Add the mashed potatoes to the pan, stirring until combined.
4. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until heated through.
5. Crumble the cooked bacon on top of the colcannon mixture.
6. Crack in the eggs and scramble until cooked through.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes
Colcannon and Corned Beef Bake
Combine the comforting flavors of colcannon (mashed potatoes with kale and onions) and corned beef for a satisfying casserole perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs corned beef brisket, sliced into thin strips
– 3 large potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 1 bunch of kale, stems removed and chopped
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Boil the potatoes until tender; drain and mash with butter, salt, and pepper.
3. In a pan, sauté the chopped onion, garlic, and kale until wilted. Add chicken broth and milk; stir until combined.
4. Combine the mashed potatoes, kale mixture, and sliced corned beef in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Colcannon Gnocchi with Brown Butter
This recipe combines the creamy richness of colcannon (mashed potatoes with kale and onions) with the comforting warmth of gnocchi, all wrapped up in a nutty brown butter sauce. The result is a delightful fusion of textures and flavors that’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup kale leaves, finely chopped
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– Salt, to taste
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Brown butter sauce (see below)
Gnocchi:
1. Boil the potatoes until tender, then mash and let cool.
2. Mix in flour, kale, onion, salt, and egg. Knead until a dough forms.
3. Divide the dough into 4 pieces and roll each into a long rope.
4. Cut the ropes into 1-inch pieces to form gnocchi.
Brown Butter Sauce:
1. Melt 2 tablespoons butter in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the butter turns golden brown (about 5 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and season with salt.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
To cook the gnocchi, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the gnocchi for 3-5 minutes or until they float to the surface. Serve with brown butter sauce and enjoy!
Colcannon Pizza with Mozzarella
This recipe combines the creamy, comforting flavors of colcannon (mashed potatoes and kale) with the gooey goodness of mozzarella cheese on top of a crispy pizza crust. The result is a unique and delicious twist on traditional pizza.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked mashed potatoes
– 1/2 cup chopped kale or spinach
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup whole milk
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 pre-made pizza crust (homemade or store-bought)
– 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F.
2. In a bowl, mix together mashed potatoes, kale or spinach, cheddar cheese, milk, and butter until well combined.
3. Roll out the pizza crust to desired thickness.
4. Spread the colcannon mixture evenly over the crust, leaving a small border around edges.
5. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top of colcannon.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crust is golden brown and cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Colcannon Croquettes with Dipping Sauce
Experience the comforting flavors of Ireland with these crispy Colcannon Croquettes, served with a tangy Dipping Sauce. A perfect snack or appetizer for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked colcannon (mashed potatoes with kale and onions)
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Dipping Sauce (see below)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine colcannon, panko breadcrumbs, and egg. Mix well.
2. Divide the mixture into 6-8 portions, depending on desired size.
3. Shape each portion into a ball and then flatten slightly into a disk shape.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch (1 cm) of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry the croquettes for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
6. Drain on paper towels.
Dipping Sauce:
– 1 cup sour cream
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Mix all ingredients together in a bowl. Serve with Colcannon Croquettes.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes for frying, including heating the oil.
Colcannon and Smoked Salmon Rolls
A delicious twist on traditional Scottish colcannon, these bite-sized rolls combine the creamy potato and cabbage dish with smoked salmon for a savory and indulgent treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 head of cabbage, shredded
– 1/4 cup butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup smoked salmon, flaked
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon milk
– Fresh dill, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Boil the potatoes until tender, then mash with butter and season with salt and pepper.
2. In a separate pan, sauté the cabbage with butter until softened.
3. Mix the mashed potatoes and cooked cabbage together, adding flour to thicken.
4. Roll out puff pastry to desired thickness. Spoon a small amount of colcannon onto one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2 inch border.
5. Top with flaked smoked salmon and fold the other half of the pastry over to form a triangle. Seal edges with a fork.
6. Brush tops with beaten egg and milk mixture.
7. Bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Colcannon Quiche with Cheddar
This quiche combines the creamy goodness of colcannon (mashed potatoes, kale, and onions) with the sharpness of cheddar cheese, making for a satisfying brunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pie crust
– 2 cups leftover colcannon
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the pie crust and place it in a 9-inch tart pan.
3. Spread the colcannon evenly over the bottom of the crust.
4. Sprinkle the cheddar cheese over the colcannon.
5. In a bowl, whisk together the heavy cream and eggs. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Pour the egg mixture over the cheese and colcannon.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the rich flavors of Ireland with these 19 delicious colcannon recipes! From classic dishes like Irish Colcannon with Cabbage and Garlic Butter Colcannon with Kale, to modern twists like Cheesy Colcannon with Bacon Bits and Sweet Potato Colcannon with Leeks, there’s something for everyone. Vegans will love the Coconut Milk version, while meat-lovers will enjoy the Sausage Casserole or Shepherd’s Pie. And don’t forget the creative takes on traditional dishes, such as Colcannon Pancakes with Sour Cream or Colcannon Pizza with Mozzarella. Whether you’re looking for a comforting side dish or a show-stopping main course, these colcannon recipes are sure to delight!
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