Irish Colcannon (easy mashed potatoes with kale)
Colcannon is comfort food from Ireland at its best. Don't let the fancy name fool you: it's buttery mashed potatoes with kale and leeks mixed in, and absolutely delicious! It's a traditional side dish for St. Patrick's Day.
Servings 4 servings
Ingredients
For the potatoes:
- 2 pounds starchy potatoes
- ½ teaspoon salt
- cold water for boiling
For th kale:
- 1 cup chopped kale
- ¼ cup chopped leeks or green onions or a mix
- 1 cup milk
- large pinch of ground nutmeg
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
For the mashed potatoes:
- Peel 2 pounds starchy potatoes and cut them into roughly equal chunks, about 1 to 2 inches in size.
- Place the potatoes in a large pot, cover with cold water and add ½ teaspoon salt. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to medium and simmer until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.
For the kale mixture:
- While the potatoes cook, wash the kale thoroughly and remove any tough stems. You need 1 cup chopped kale.
- In a separate pan, heat 1 tablespoon of butter and gently sauté ¼ cup chopped leeks or green onions for 2 or 3 minutes, until soft but not browned.
- Add the chopped kale to the skillet and cook for another 2 or 3 minutes until the kale wilts down. Set aside.
- In a small saucepan, warm 1 cup milk and the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter, large pinch of ground nutmeg and ½ teaspoon salt until it melts. Don't let it boil.
- Once the potatoes are done, drain them well and return to the pot. Mash them thoroughly. Slowly pour in the warm milk and butter mixture while continuing to mash until smooth and creamy.
- Fold in the kale and leek mixture and ¼ teaspoon black pepper until everything is well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve hot with an extra pat of butter melting on top if desired!
Notes
Cabbage colcannon: Substitute the kale for finely chopped green cabbage.
Spices: Add a kick with a touch of cayenne pepper or paprika.
Add-ins: Stir in some grated Irish cheddar cheese or crisp bacon bits. Check seasonings and adjust the salt.
