THE RECIPE JOURNAL · Side Dish
Chef John Presents: Colcannon
This comforting Irish classic combines creamy mashed potatoes with sautéed cabbage for a hearty side dish that’s perfect any time of year. Simple to make and full of flavor, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
FROM THE KITCHEN • Chef John Presents: Colcannon
01 THE RECIPE
Let's make it.
Follow these steps for a delicious result. Tick off each step as you go.
FROM OUR VIDEO COLLECTION
Sautéed chicken and potatoes
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01
Step 1
Start by boiling the potatoes in a big pot of salted water until they’re nice and tender, which should take about 10 minutes. Once they’re done, drain them and pop them into a large bowl. Add 2 tablespoons of butter and give them a gentle mash.
02
Step 2
While the potatoes cook, bring another pot of water to a boil and cook the kale and leeks until they’re soft, about 5 to 7 minutes. Drain them well, then transfer the kale and leeks to a blender. Toss in the white parts of the green onions along with 2 more tablespoons of butter, and blend until smooth, scraping down the sides as you go.
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Step 3
Pour the smooth kale mixture into the mashed potatoes and mix everything together, mashing a bit more if needed. Season with salt and pepper to your liking. Stir in some cream until you get the texture you want.
04
Step 4
To finish, top the colcannon with the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and sprinkle the green parts of the green onions over the top. Serve warm and enjoy!
Why you’ll love it
This dish is a comforting blend of creamy mashed potatoes and sautéed cabbage, creating a hearty side that feels like a warm hug. Its simple ingredients come together to make a flavorful, traditional Irish classic that’s perfect any time of year.
How to serve
Serve alongside roasted meats, grilled sausages, or a hearty stew. It also pairs wonderfully with a fried egg on top for a satisfying meal any time of day.
Storage & leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or butter to keep it creamy.
