Description
This creamy Irish Colcannon is a comforting side dish made with mashed potatoes, kale, leeks, and crispy bacon. It’s perfect for St. Patrick’s Day or any time you crave something hearty and flavorful. Quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying, this dish fits right in with your favorite healthy recipes, recipes for dinner, and simple high protein meals. Great for those looking for quick and easy dinner recipes with ground beef alternatives or recipes to try for your next festive gathering.
Ingredients
- 2 ½ pounds Russet potatoes, peeled and quartered
Kosher salt, to taste
5 thick-cut bacon slices, diced
1 leek, rinsed and sliced
1 bunch kale, rinsed, stems removed and chopped
1 cup heavy cream
3 scallions, chopped
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
5 tablespoons unsalted butter
Instructions
Place the potatoes in a large saucepan and cover with water. Season with salt. Bring to a boil and cook for about 20 minutes, or until tender. Drain well and transfer to a large bowl.
While the potatoes cook, heat a Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced bacon and cook until crispy. Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
Drain most of the bacon fat, leaving about 2 tablespoons in the pot. Add leeks and scallions, sautéing until softened, about 5 minutes.
Add the chopped kale and cook for 2-3 minutes, until wilted.
Mash the drained potatoes with 3 tablespoons of butter. Stir in the sautéed greens and continue mashing until smooth.
Mix in the heavy cream and bacon. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Top with the remaining butter and some chopped scallions. Serve warm.
Notes
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For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and sauté the leeks in butter or olive oil.
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You can substitute cabbage for kale if preferred.
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Make ahead and reheat gently with a splash of cream or milk.
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Great with sausages, roast meats, or as part of a holiday spread.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 recipe
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 340mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 50mg