Colcannon (Traditional Irish Mashed Potatoes with Cabbage)

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Colcannon (Traditional Irish Mashed Potatoes with Cabbage)

Course Side Dish
Cuisine Irish
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings 6
Calories 220kcal

Ingredients

  • 3 pounds russet or Yukon Gold potatoes peeled and cut into chunks
  • 4 tablespoons butter divided
  • 1 cup whole milk or half-and-half for a richer version
  • 3 cups green cabbage or kale finely shredded
  • 4 scallions green onions, thinly sliced
  • 1 teaspoon salt plus more for the potato water
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • Optional: 2 cloves garlic minced
  • Optional garnish: extra butter and chopped parsley

Instructions

  • Cook the Potatoes
  • Place potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water.
  • Add about 1 tablespoon of salt.
  • Bring to a boil, then reduce to a gentle boil for 15–20 minutes, or until fork tender.
  • Drain well and let them sit in the warm pot for 2–3 minutes to evaporate excess moisture.
  • Prepare the Greens
  • While the potatoes cook, melt 2 tablespoons butter in a large skillet.
  • Add the cabbage (or kale) and cook for 5–8 minutes until tender.
  • Stir in the scallions during the last 2 minutes.
  • If using garlic, add it during the final minute of cooking.
  • Warm the Milk
  • Heat the milk gently in a small saucepan or microwave until warm (not boiling).
  • Mash Everything Together
  • Mash the potatoes until smooth.
  • Add the remaining 2 tablespoons butter and gradually stir in the warm milk.
  • Fold in the cooked cabbage and scallions.
  • Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
  • Serve
  • Spoon into a serving bowl.
  • Make a small well in the center and add a pat of butter to melt over the top.
  • Garnish with parsley if desired.

Notes

Nutrient Amount per Serving
Calories ~220 kcal
Total Fat 7 g
Saturated Fat 4.5 g
Cholesterol 20 mg
Sodium 320 mg*
Total Carbohydrates 35 g
Dietary Fiber 3.5 g
Total Sugars 4 g
Protein 5 g
Vitamin A 10% DV
Vitamin C 45% DV
Calcium 8% DV
Iron 8% DV
Potassium ~820 mg
*Sodium will vary depending on how much salt is added during cooking.

Estimated Nutrition for the Entire Recipe

  • Calories: ~1,760 kcal
  • Fat: ~56 g
  • Carbohydrates: ~280 g
  • Protein: ~40 g
  • Fiber: ~28 g

Notes

  • Using Yukon Gold potatoes will make the dish creamier and slightly higher in calories than russets.
  • Substituting kale for cabbage will increase vitamins A, K, and C while adding very few calories.
  • Using half-and-half instead of whole milk adds about 15–20 calories per serving.
  • Adding bacon or cheese can increase calories by 40–100+ calories per serving, depending on the amount used.

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