The first time I savored colcannon, I was enchanted by its warm, comforting embrace. As my fork sank into the fluffy mashed potatoes, a burst of vibrant green kale mingling effortlessly with creamy butter and onions brought a smile to my face. It was not just a dish; it was a celebration of home-cooked simplicity that instantly transported me to the heart of an Irish kitchen.
In just 20 minutes, you can transform a handful of everyday ingredients into this cozy classic that is perfect for family dinners or to impress unsuspecting guests. Whether you’re looking to break free from the fast-food rut or simply craving something delicious and hearty, colcannon delivers flawlessly. And the best part? It’s incredibly versatile—swap out kale for cabbage if you’re in the mood, and enjoy it as a side dish or a standalone meal.
Join me in creating this delightful recipe that feels like a warm hug on a plate and brings a touch of nostalgia to your table. Let’s dive into the magic of colcannon!
Why You'll Love This Colcannon
- This colcannon recipe is not only easy to prepare but also comes together in just 20 minutes, making it a fantastic choice for busy weeknights.
- The rich flavors of buttery potatoes paired with tender greens make it a comforting dish that will warm your soul.
- Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on your preferences, whether you choose kale or cabbage, creating a unique twist every time.
- Visually, the vibrant green of the greens against the creamy potatoes creates an inviting dish that is sure to impress your guests.
Colcannon Ingredients
• Perfect for a comforting dish!
For the Potatoes
- Starchy potatoes – these are ideal for a creamy texture; russets or Yukon golds work wonders.
For the Greens
- Kale or cabbage – swap them based on your mood; both bring earthy goodness to colcannon.
For the Creaminess
- Unsalted butter – adds richness; feel free to adjust the amount for your taste!
- Heavy cream or milk – use milk for a lighter version, or go all out with cream for a luxurious touch.
For the Flavor
- Green onions – these add a fresh, mild onion flavor that brightens up the dish.
- Salt – essential for balancing flavors; add to taste!
- Pepper – a dash adds a touch of warmth and depth to your colcannon.
How to Make Colcannon
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Prepare the Potatoes: Start by peeling and chopping your starchy potatoes into uniform chunks to ensure they cook evenly and create that creamy base.
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Combine Ingredients: In your Instant Pot, add the chopped potatoes alongside the kale or cabbage. Pour in water until it covers them halfway, setting the stage for a delightful steam-cooking experience.
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Season and Pressure Cook: Sprinkle salt and pepper over the mix, secure the lid tightly, and set your Instant Pot to manual high pressure for just 10 minutes. That’s all it takes for tender perfection!
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Release and Add Creaminess: After the cooking time, carefully release the pressure. Drain any excess water, then add the buttery goodness, cream (or milk), and the chopped green onions for that fresh burst of flavor.
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Mash and Serve: Using a potato masher, mash everything together until you achieve a creamy consistency. Serve it hot for the ultimate comfort food experience!
Optional: Top with extra butter or crispy bacon bits for a delightful finish!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
Colcannon is an excellent choice for meal prep, saving you time on busy weeknights! You can peel and chop the starchy potatoes and store them in water in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours to prevent browning. The kale or cabbage can also be chopped in advance and kept separately for freshness. When you’re ready to serve, simply follow the cooking instructions after draining the potatoes. To maintain the creaminess, add butter and cream right before mashing and serving, ensuring the colcannon is just as delicious as if it were made fresh. This way, you’ll have a comforting, homemade dish ready in a flash!
Colcannon Variations
Feel free to explore the wonderful world of flavors and textures with these fun twists on classic colcannon.
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Vegan: Replace butter with olive oil and use coconut milk for a creamy consistency without any animal products.
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Garlic Boost: Sauté minced garlic in the butter before adding to the potatoes for a rich, aromatic flavor that elevates your dish.
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Cheesy: Stir in your favorite shredded cheese, like cheddar or Gruyère, for a luscious, cheesy colcannon that your family will adore. Melt it in while mashing for the best results!
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Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to bring a delightful heat that perfectly contrasts the creamy potatoes.
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Herbed: Infuse the dish with fresh herbs such as chives, thyme, or parsley to bring brightness and depth to every mouthful.
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Twice-Baked: For a fun twist, scoop the mashed colcannon into potato skins, top with cheese, and bake until golden for a crispy, indulgent treat.
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Rainbow Veggies: Incorporate colorful veggies like carrots, peas, or bell peppers alongside the greens for added texture, flavor, and a vibrant plate.
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Bacon Lovers: Mix in crispy, crumbled bacon for a savory, meaty crunch that adds a satisfying twist to this classic comfort food.
How to Store and Freeze Colcannon
Fridge: Store leftover colcannon in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Be sure to let it cool to room temperature before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: Freeze colcannon in individual portions for up to 2 months. Use freezer-safe containers or bags, squeezing out as much air as possible for best results.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm it gently on the stove or microwave. Add a splash of milk or cream to regain its creamy consistency.
What to Serve with Colcannon?
Looking to create a delightful meal alongside your creamy colcannon? Let’s explore some delicious pairings that will elevate your dining experience.
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Savory Irish Sausage: The robust flavors of perfectly grilled Irish sausages complement the creamy texture of colcannon beautifully, creating a heartwarming combination.
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Roasted Root Vegetables: Caramelized carrots and parsnips add a sweet, earthy note while their crispy edges create a delightful contrast to the soft colcannon.
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Braised Lamb Shanks: The rich, tender meat of braised lamb shanks bathed in a savory sauce pairs perfectly, showcasing a luxurious take on a comforting meal.
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Garlicky Green Beans: Bright, crisp green beans sautéed with garlic provide a refreshing crunch, balancing the richness of colcannon with a burst of color.
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Shepherd’s Pie: For a true Irish feast, pair this dish with a hearty shepherd’s pie; the flavors meld beautifully with the colcannon acting as a creamy sidekick.
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Apple Tart: End the meal on a sweet note with a warm apple tart. The cinnamon-filled goodness invites a cozy finish to your dining experience, harmonizing well with the savory flavors.
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Irish Stout: A glass of rich Irish stout brings about a depth of flavor, enhancing the comforting experience of enjoying colcannon, while providing an authentic Irish touch.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the best colcannon, make sure to chop your potatoes into uniform pieces to ensure they cook evenly and achieve that creamy texture.
- Don’t forget to season the potatoes and kale with salt and pepper before pressure cooking; this enhances the flavor right from the start.
- When mashing, use a potato masher for a creamy consistency, but be careful not to over-mash, as that can lead to a gluey texture.
- After draining excess water, always add the butter and cream while the potatoes are still hot for the richest flavor.
Colcannon Recipe FAQs
What type of potatoes should I use for colcannon?
Absolutely! Starchy potatoes like russets or Yukon golds are the best choices for colcannon. They create that creamy texture you crave, making your dish irresistibly delicious!
How long can I store leftover colcannon in the fridge?
Leftover colcannon can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool to room temperature before sealing for optimal freshness!
Can I freeze colcannon? If so, how?
Yes, you can freeze colcannon! I recommend portioning it into freezer-safe containers or bags and squeezing out as much air as possible. It will last up to 2 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave. Adding a splash of milk or cream during reheating helps regain that creamy texture!
What if my colcannon turns out too runny?
If your colcannon ends up too runny, don’t worry! You can cook it down a bit over low heat. Just stir occasionally to help evaporate the excess moisture. Alternatively, you could add a small amount of instant potato flakes to thicken it—mix it in gradually until you reach your desired consistency.
Are there any dietary considerations for colcannon?
Yes, while colcannon is generally quite accommodating, if you have allergies, make sure to check the ingredients. For a dairy-free option, substitute the butter with olive oil and use a non-dairy milk alternative. If you’re serving it to pets, avoid giving them colcannon as it contains onion, which can be harmful.
Colcannon
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Peel and chop the starchy potatoes into uniform chunks.
- Add the chopped potatoes alongside the kale or cabbage to your Instant Pot. Pour in water until it covers them halfway.
- Sprinkle salt and pepper, secure the lid, and set to manual high pressure for 10 minutes.
- Release the pressure, drain excess water, then add the butter, cream (or milk), and green onions.
- Mash everything together until creamy and serve hot.
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