Irish Colcannon with Kale (Printable)

Creamy mashed potatoes combined with tender kale and butter for a rich, classic Irish side.

# What You Need:

→ Vegetables

01 - 2 lbs floury potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
02 - 4 cups kale, ribs removed and finely chopped
03 - 2 scallions, thinly sliced

→ Dairy

04 - 4 tbsp unsalted butter, plus extra for serving
05 - 1/2 cup whole milk
06 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

# Steps:

01 - Place potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold salted water. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until fork-tender.
02 - Melt 2 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped kale and cook for 4-5 minutes until tender and bright green. Stir in scallions and cook 1 minute longer.
03 - Drain potatoes well and return to pot. Add milk and remaining 2 tbsp butter. Mash until smooth and creamy.
04 - Fold sautéed kale and scallions into mashed potatoes. Season generously with salt and pepper.
05 - Transfer to serving bowl and make a small well in center. Add extra knob of butter to melt on top before serving.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The combination of creamy potatoes and earthy kale creates layers of flavor that feel nourishing and substantial
  • It comes together in under an hour but tastes like something that simmered all afternoon
  • Most ingredients are probably already in your kitchen, making it perfect for last minute comfort meals
02 -
  • Start potatoes in cold water not boiling, to ensure even cooking throughout
  • Do not overwork the potatoes once milk is added or they can become gluey and dense
  • The well of butter on top is traditional and each spoonful should get a little melted richness
03 -
  • Warm your milk before adding it to the potatoes so they stay hot and absorb the liquid better
  • Use a potato ricer for the smoothest texture if you want restaurant quality results

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