Traditional Irish Colcannon Recipe

Traditional Irish Colcannon Recipe

Traditional Irish Colcannon Recipe – Traditional Irish Comfort Food At Its Best

I love making this traditional Irish colcannon recipe for dinner for my family.  Made using potatoes, green cabbage, butter and milk this is a great meal in itself, this is traditional Irish food at its best.

For a complete list of all my Irish recipes, click the link to visit my article on Irish Recipes

What is Colcannon?

Colcannon is a traditional Irish recipe that typically includes mashed potatoes, kale or cabbage, and butter. Some variations of the dish also include onions, leeks, cream, and other seasonings.

While colcannon can be enjoyed any time of year, it is particularly popular during the autumn and winter months. The dish is said to have originated in the 17th century, and there are many regional variations of the recipe.

Whether you’re looking for a simple side dish or a hearty main course, colcannon is sure to please.

Irish Colcannon Recipe.

Irish Colcannon is best served on a cold Winter’s night, this Irish Colcannon recipe is comfort food at its best and will warm your soul while tasting every bit as good as you think.

Colcannon comes from the Irish word cál ceannann which mean “white-headed cabbage” and was traditional served on Halloween in Ireland.  Charms would often be hidden inside the potato and when found would signify your future, or so they say.  A plain gold ring would signify you were to wed within a year,  a sixpence or coin denotes wealth, a thimble a spinster and a button would mean you would be a bachelor.

This traditional Irish Colconannon Recipe is great on its own but also goes really well served with roast lamb or beef.  It is a heart warming meal that all the family will love and enjoy time and time again.

Served with some melted butter in a hollow in the middle of the mash this was an extremely tasty and warming meal loved by many families throughout Ireland. 

Why not try out my Irish Colcannon recipe and enjoy a taste of traditional Irish food for yourself.

If you liked this why not try this delicious Irish Champ Recipe

5 from 4 votes
tradititional irish colcannon recipe
Traditional Irish Colcannon Recipe
Prep Time
20 mins
Cook Time
25 mins
Total Time
45 mins
 

Traditional Irish Colcannon Recipe made using potatoes, green cabbage, butter and milk.  This is a great tasting Irish comfort food.

Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: Irish
Keyword: how to make colcannon, potatoes and cabbage, traditional irish colcannon recipe
Servings: 4 People
Calories: 234 kcal
Author: J.J. Sheridan
Ingredients
  • 2 kg Floury Potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
  • 1 Head of Green Cabbage, sliced thinly
  • 250 ml Whole Milk
  • 125 g Salted Butter
  • Salt and Pepper
Instructions
  1. Boil or steam the potatoes for 20 to 25 minutes until fully cooked.

  2. In a pot bring water to a boil and add some salt. Once boiled add the thinly sliced cabbage and simmer for 4 to 5 minutes until wilted and soft.

  3. Drain the cabbage well squeezing to remove as much water as possible. Return to the pot and add a third of the butter mix to coat.  Put a lid on the pot to keep the cabbage warm.

  4. Once the potatoes are cooked strain off the water and return to the pot and heat to remove as much moisture from the potatoes as possible.

  5. Warm the milk slightly then add to the potato and mix to combine. Season to taste with salt and pepper.

  6. Add in the cabbage to the mash and mix well. Test again for seasoning.

  7. Serve heaped on a plate with a hollow in the middle.  Melt the remaining butter and pour into the hollow of each portion of colcannon.

About the author
J.J. Sheridan
Welcome to Retrobite Ireland! I’m JJ Sheridan, and I’m thrilled to share my passion for Irish culture, mythology, and cuisine with you. I have a passion for sharing our Irish Culture and promoting our old stories, ways and food. Having worked as a chef for many years, I’ve developed a deep appreciation for the flavors and traditions of Ireland, which I now combine with my love for storytelling. Through this blog, my goal is to bring the rich history of Irish mythology and folklore to life, introducing you to the fascinating tales of gods, heroes, and legendary creatures that have shaped Ireland’s cultural heritage. I believe that by passing on these stories, we keep the spirit of Irish culture alive and vibrant. Join me as we explore ancient legends, uncover the history of Ireland’s clans, and delve into the mysteries of the Otherworld. Along the way, I’ll also share insights into the best places to experience Irish culture firsthand—from hidden gem eateries to breathtaking landscapes.

6 thoughts on “Traditional Irish Colcannon Recipe”

  1. 5 stars
    As a cook in Ireland for over 50 years can I suggest that there is a common flaw in your Colcannon recipe. Milk should never be added as it will make the dish gloopy and sticky. A little of he cooking water from the potatoes works much better.

    In less affluent times Butter was often beyond the reach of ordinary people and Beef Dripping would be used instead. In my opinion Beef Dripping gives a much better, deeper, richer flavour but commercial beef dripping should not be used. The dripping from your own roast beef fresh from your own oven is the real deal.

    Finally, Curley Kale is more traditionally used more than Cabbage.

    Reply

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