Authentic Irish Colcannon Recipe

Authentic Irish Colcannon

A classic Irish recipe that uses our smoked back bacon, cabbage, cream and butter to transform humble mashed potatoes into something sumptuous and special. Serve with pork sausages any day of the year, not just St. Patrick's Day!

Cook Time:30 minutes

Serves:4-6

Prep Time:15 minutes

SKIP TO THE RECIPE

What is colcannon?

Colcannon is a traditional Irish mashed potato dish made with smoked back bacon, greens (traditionally cabbage or kale), scallions and plenty of Irish butter. Colcannon is served all year round, but is particularly popular on St Patrick’s Day and the feast of St Brigid.

How to serve colcannon mash

Many people enjoy colcannon on its own as a hearty reminder of home, but you can also use it as a side dish with some Irish sausages or your favourite Irish meat to create the perfect evening meal. While it’s unlikely you’ll have any leftovers, but if you do, mix them with some flour and eggs to create some delicious colcannon cakes the next day - delicious!

What are the best potatoes for colcannon mash?

A sure way to start an argument is asking what is the best type of potato? When it comes to making colcannon, we believe we have perfected our colcannon recipe and find Russet potatoes are the best potato for the job. Their starchy nature helps to create light fluffy mash which is perfectly complemented by the bacon and cabbage. And best of all? Russet potatoes are widely available across the US, meaning you can create the perfect Irish supper right here!

How To Make Sausage Rolls

Ingredients:

2lb russet potatoes, peeled and halved
1 stick (½ cup) salted butter, divided
8 oz smoked back bacon, sliced
1 small head dark green leafy cabbage (about 1 lb), finely shredded
½ cup heavy cream
4-5 spring onions (scallions), thinly sliced
Salt and black pepper, to taste

Method:

Step One: Boil the Potatoes
Place potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, until tender when pierced with a fork.

Step Two: Cook the Cabbage and Bacon
While potatoes cook, melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the bacon and shredded cabbage and fry until the bacon is cooked and the cabbage is soft, about 4-5 minutes. Set aside.

Step Three: Mash the Potatoes
Drain the potatoes well and return to the pot. Mash until smooth. Add the remaining butter and mash until melted and incorporated. Pour in the heavy cream and beat until smooth and creamy.

Step Four: Combine and Serve
Fold the bacon and cabbage mixture into the mashed potatoes. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste. Transfer to a serving bowl, top with sliced spring onions, and serve hot alongside pork sausages, corned beef, or your favourite main dish.