Creamy Irish Colcannon Casserole with Kale and Leeks
Experience the heartwarming flavors of Ireland with this Creamy Irish Colcannon Casserole, a delightful winter dish featuring layers of buttery potatoes, sweet parsnips, and nutritious kale (or cabbage), all melded together with soft leeks in a creamy milk sauce. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in, this casserole not only fills the belly but also warms the soul. Garnished with fresh parsley, it brings a pop of color to your table and can be easily adapted for a slow-cooked version, making it a versatile addition to your winter recipe repertoire.
8
Servings
N/A
Calories
11
Ingredients
Ingredients
Potatoes
1 lb (sliced)
Parsnips
2 medium (peeled and sliced)
Leeks
2 medium (chopped (including greens))
Milk
1 cup (heated)
Kale or Cabbage
1 lb (washed, chopped, and lightly steamed)
Mace
1/2 teaspoon
Garlic
2 cloves (minced)
Salt
1 teaspoon
Pepper
1/2 teaspoon
Butter
2 tablespoons (melted)
Fresh Parsley
1 bunch (chopped for garnish)
Instructions
1
In a large pot, bring water to a boil and cook the sliced potatoes and parsnips until tender, approximately 15-20 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2
In a separate saucepan, simmer the chopped leeks in the milk over low heat until they are soft but not broken down, about 10 minutes. Keep warm.
3
While the leeks are cooking, steam or sauté the chopped kale or cabbage in a little water or oil until tender. Set aside and keep warm.
4
Once the potatoes and parsnips are drained, return them to the pot. Season them with mace, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mash the mixture until smooth and creamy.
5
Gently fold in the cooked leeks along with their milk, ensuring not to overmix the leeks.
6
Finally, stir in the chopped kale or cabbage and melted butter until everything is well combined and creamy.
7
Transfer the mixture to a serving dish, smoothing the top. Garnish generously with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
8
For a slow-cooker version, layer the sliced potatoes, parsnips, and greens. Cook on low for 6-8 hours and then follow the same mixing process to combine with milk and butter.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Irish Colcannon Casserole?
It is a traditional Irish winter dish featuring layers of buttery potatoes, sweet parsnips, and nutritious kale or cabbage melded with leeks in a creamy sauce.
What are the primary ingredients in this recipe?
The main ingredients include potatoes, parsnips, leeks, milk, kale or cabbage, mace, garlic, butter, and fresh parsley.
How long does it take to cook the potatoes and parsnips?
The sliced potatoes and parsnips should be boiled for approximately 15 to 20 minutes until they are tender.
Can I substitute kale with another vegetable?
Yes, you can easily substitute the kale with an equal amount of chopped cabbage.
How should the leeks be prepared?
The leeks should be chopped, including the greens, and simmered in milk over low heat for about 10 minutes until soft.
What spices are used for seasoning?
The recipe uses mace, minced garlic, salt, and pepper to season the mash.
Is this Colcannon recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this is a vegetarian dish as it contains only vegetables, dairy, and seasonings.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe is designed to serve 8 people.
Can this dish be made in a slow cooker?
Yes, layer the sliced potatoes, parsnips, and greens in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours before mixing with milk and butter.
How much milk is needed for the sauce?
The recipe calls for 1 cup of heated milk.
What is the recommended garnish?
The dish should be garnished generously with a bunch of chopped fresh parsley.
Do I need to peel the parsnips?
Yes, the instructions specify that the parsnips should be peeled and sliced before cooking.
How much butter is used in the casserole?
The recipe uses 2 tablespoons of melted butter, stirred in at the final stage.
How do I prepare the kale or cabbage?
The greens should be washed, chopped, and then either steamed or sautéed in a little water or oil until tender.
What is the best way to combine the ingredients?
Mash the potatoes and parsnips first, then gently fold in the leeks and milk, and finally stir in the greens and butter.
Can I use frozen kale?
While fresh is recommended, you can use frozen kale as long as it is thawed and drained before being incorporated.
What is the purpose of the mace in this recipe?
Mace provides a warm, aromatic flavor that complements the earthy tones of the root vegetables.
Should I include the green parts of the leeks?
Yes, the recipe specifically mentions including the greens of the two medium leeks.
How much garlic is required?
You will need 2 cloves of garlic, minced.
What category of food does this fall into?
This recipe is categorized as a Potato dish and is often served as a side dish.
Is this a traditional Irish recipe?
Yes, Colcannon is a classic Irish dish, and this version adds parsnips for extra sweetness.
What is the total weight of potatoes used?
The recipe requires 1 pound of potatoes.
What is the total weight of greens used?
The recipe requires 1 pound of kale or cabbage.
How do I serve the Colcannon?
Transfer the mixture to a serving dish, smooth the top, and add fresh parsley garnish.
Can I add extra salt?
The recipe calls for 1 teaspoon of salt, but you can adjust to your personal preference.
Is it okay to overmix the leeks?
No, you should gently fold the leeks in to ensure they do not break down too much.
Can I use heavy cream instead of milk?
Yes, for a richer version, you could substitute the cup of milk with heavy cream.
Does this dish store well as leftovers?
Yes, this casserole can be stored in the refrigerator and reheated, making it great for meal prep.
What texture should the potato and parsnip mash have?
The mash should be processed until it is smooth and creamy before adding the other ingredients.
Is this a good dish for family gatherings?
Absolutely, its hearty nature and 8-serving yield make it perfect for families or cozy gatherings.