Colcannon Irish Potatoes Cabbage is a beloved dish that brings warmth and comfort to every table. This traditional Irish comfort food combines creamy mashed potatoes with tender cabbage and vibrant scallions, creating a hearty meal that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying it as a side dish or a main course, Colcannon is sure to satisfy. Let’s dive into this authentic Irish potato and cabbage recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Colcannon Irish Potatoes Cabbage
This dish is not just delicious; it’s also packed with benefits that make it a perfect addition to your meal rotation. First, it’s a fantastic way to incorporate vegetables into your diet, specifically green cabbage, which is rich in vitamins and minerals. Second, this cabbage and potatoes dish is incredibly comforting, making it a great choice for chilly evenings.
Third, the combination of flavors in this traditional Irish colcannon recipe is simply delightful, with the creamy potatoes complementing the slight crunch of cabbage. Additionally, it’s an easy colcannon preparation that only takes about 40 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners. Plus, it’s a vegetarian colcannon recipe, so everyone can enjoy it!
Finally, the versatility of Colcannon allows for variations, such as the colcannon with kale variation, which adds even more nutrients to this already healthy dish.
Ingredients for Colcannon Irish Potatoes Cabbage
Gather these items:
- 2 lbs (900 g) russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 3 cups (180 g) green cabbage, finely shredded
- 4 tablespoons (60 g) unsalted butter
- ½ cup (120 ml) whole milk or cream
- 3 green onions (scallions), thinly sliced
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Extra melted butter for serving
How to Make Colcannon Irish Potatoes Cabbage Step-by-Step
- Step 1: Place peeled and cubed potatoes in a large pot. Cover with cold salted water. Bring to a boil and cook for 15–20 minutes, or until fork-tender. Drain thoroughly and return potatoes to the pot.
- Step 2: Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add shredded cabbage and cook for 5–7 minutes until tender but still bright. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Step 3: Mash the drained potatoes with the remaining butter and warm milk until smooth and creamy. Adjust consistency with additional milk if needed.
- Step 4: Fold cooked cabbage and sliced green onions into the mashed potatoes. Season to taste with salt and black pepper.
- Step 5: Serve warm with a small well in the center and drizzle with melted butter if desired.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Colcannon Irish Potatoes Cabbage
Keep these in mind:
- Use freshly shredded cabbage for the best flavor.
- For an even creamier texture, consider adding more milk or cream.
- Don’t overcook the cabbage to maintain its vibrant color and nutrients.
- Try adding chopped bacon or ham for a non-vegetarian twist.
Best Ways to Serve Colcannon Irish Potatoes Cabbage
Colcannon is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of meals. Serve it alongside roasted meats like chicken or beef for a hearty dinner, or enjoy it as a standalone dish with a light salad. For a more traditional Irish experience, serve it with Irish stew. Consider adding a dollop of sour cream on top for an extra layer of flavor.
How to Store and Reheat Colcannon Irish Potatoes Cabbage
To store any leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. They can last up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess. This makes the dish perfect for meal prep!
Frequently Asked Questions About Colcannon Irish Potatoes Cabbage
What’s the secret to perfect Colcannon Irish Potatoes Cabbage?
The secret lies in the balance of textures; the potatoes should be creamy while the cabbage adds a slight crunch. Also, seasoning is key—make sure to taste as you go!
Can I make Colcannon Irish Potatoes Cabbage ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Colcannon ahead of time! Just store it in the fridge and reheat when you’re ready to serve. This makes it a great option for busy weeknights.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Colcannon Irish Potatoes Cabbage?
Avoid overcooking the potatoes and cabbage, as this can lead to a mushy texture. Be sure to drain the potatoes well to keep the dish creamy without becoming watery.
Variations of Colcannon Irish Potatoes Cabbage You Can Try
There are plenty of delicious variations to explore! You can try adding kale for a different leafy green flavor or even substituting some of the potatoes with sweet potatoes for a twist. For those looking to reduce calories, consider using low-fat milk instead of cream. Each variation brings a unique touch to this classic dish!
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Colcannon Irish Potatoes Cabbage: 5 Reasons to Love It
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Authentic Colcannon (Irish Potatoes and Cabbage) – A Comforting Irish Classic
Ingredients
- 2 lbs (900 g) russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 3 cups (180 g) green cabbage, finely shredded
- 4 tablespoons (60 g) unsalted butter
- ½ cup (120 ml) whole milk or cream
- 3 green onions (scallions), thinly sliced
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Extra melted butter for serving
Instructions
- Place peeled and cubed potatoes in a large pot. Cover with cold salted water. Bring to a boil and cook for 15–20 minutes, or until fork-tender. Drain thoroughly and return potatoes to the pot.
- Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add shredded cabbage and cook for 5–7 minutes until tender but still bright. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Mash the drained potatoes with the remaining butter and warm milk until smooth and creamy. Adjust consistency with additional milk if needed.
- Fold cooked cabbage and sliced green onions into the mashed potatoes. Season to taste with salt and black pepper.
- Serve warm with a small well in the center and drizzle with melted butter if desired.
Notes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Boiling and Mashing
- Cuisine: Irish
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 30mg