Satisfy Your Cravings with Our Irish Colcannon Soup Recipe!
Hey there, my fellow foodies! Today, I’m thrilled to share with you an all-time classic Irish dish – the one and only Colcannon Soup. If you’re a fan of traditional Irish recipes, then this hearty soup made with mashed potatoes, cabbage, onions, cream and butter is right up your street. It’s the perfect dish to warm the soul on a cold day or enjoy as an appetizer for dinner parties.
Irish Colcannon Soup is not only a side dish but can also be enjoyed as a complete meal. The recipe has its roots in the 17th century Ireland and was traditionally eaten on Halloween or other special occasions. So, this recipe isn’t just a soup, it has a rich history behind it.
To truly understand what makes this soup great, you need to try it for yourself. The creamy texture of mashed potatoes combined with the tender savoy cabbage and chicken broth brings forth an explosion of flavors in your mouth that will delight your taste buds. And if you’re looking for a vegan version of this classic Irish dish, simply go for leek instead of bacon.
So grab your aprons, head to the kitchen and let’s dive into making some delicious Colcannon Soup – an iconic dish that is sure to whisk you away on a culinary journey to Ireland.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you’re a lover of hearty soups, then the Irish Colcannon Soup Recipe is one worth trying. This soup recipe will hit all the right notes and leave you feeling fulfilled and satisfied.
Firstly, this soup recipe is loaded with natural ingredients. We’re talking about savory savoy cabbage and onions, blended with creamy mashed potatoes to create a rich, velvety texture in every bite. The addition of colcannon thyme also provides an irresistible aroma that will awaken your senses.
Secondly, it’s the perfect alternative to traditional Irish side dishes. Colcannon Soup is a classic Irish dish made up of mashed potatoes, onions, cream, butter and sautéed kale or cabbage. This soup hearty version is a healthier iteration to this classic dish. The combination of tender boiled potatoes and shredded cabbage makes for a wholesome soup that’s perfect for any occasion.
Thirdly, it is versatile enough to accommodate your meal preferences. If you want to switch things up, vegan colcannon options are available using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. For non-vegetarian options, bacon soup or potato and leek soup can also be made using this recipe as the base.
In conclusion, if you’re looking for something delicious, healthy, and easy-to-make for dinner tonight—try out this Irish Colcannon Soup Recipe—it’s guaranteed to become a household favorite.
Ingredient List
Here’s exactly what you’ll need to make Irish Colcannon Soup:
Basic Ingredients:
- Potatoes – 2 pounds, peeled and diced
- Savoy cabbage – 1/2 head, chopped
- Onions – 2 medium, chopped
- Butter – 2 tablespoons
- Garlic – 3 cloves, minced
- Thyme – 2 teaspoons
Liquid Ingredients:
- Chicken or vegetable broth – 4 cups
Optional Substitutions:
If you want to make a vegan colcannon, replace butter with a vegan alternative. For a non-vegetarian side dish, try adding bacon bits. You can also use kale instead of cabbage or leek instead of onion.
Note:
Make sure to prepare Irish soda bread before serving the soup, as it is traditionally eaten with this dish for dinner or lunch on Halloween.
The Recipe How-To
Now comes the fun part – making the soup! This Irish Colcannon Soup Recipe is easy to follow and will surely make your taste buds dance with flavors.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups of diced and peeled potatoes
- 2 cups of sliced savoy cabbage
- 1/4 cup of chopped onions
- 2 tbsp of butter
- 4 cups of chicken broth
- 2 tbsp of chopped thyme leaves
- Salt and pepper
Recipe:
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Start by melting 2 tbsp of butter in a large pot over medium heat. Once melted, add 1/4 cup of chopped onions and sauté until the onions are tender and translucent.
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Now you can add 2 cups of sliced savoy cabbage to the pot and toss everything together. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes or until the cabbage is wilted.
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Add your diced and peeled potatoes to the pot along with 4 cups of chicken broth. Season with some salt and pepper, remember not to add too much because your broth also contains salt.
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Bring everything to a boil then reduce heat to low, simmer for about 20 minutes or until the potatoes are fork-tender and not hard anymore.
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Finally, stir in 2 tbsp of chopped thyme leaves into your soup. Check for seasoning then remove from heat.
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Use an immersion blender or transfer your soup into a blender then blend until it’s smooth and creamy.
Your Irish Colcannon Soup Recipe is now ready! Serve it hot with some toasted Irish soda bread, sprinkle some fresh thyme leaves, or even topped with crumbled bacon pieces. Enjoy this hearty version of a classic Irish dish made with mashed potatoes, cabbage, and onions!
Substitutions and Variations
Do you want to mix it up with your Irish Colcannon Soup recipe? Here are some substitutions and variations you can try to make it your own and add your own twist to this classic Irish dish.
Firstly, if you’re looking for a vegan version of this soup, simply swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth and replace the butter with olive oil or vegan butter. You can still enjoy the hearty and comforting flavors of traditional Irish Colcannon in a plant-based way.
If you want to add a little extra flavor and texture to your soup, try adding some crispy bacon on top or mix in some chopped kale with the cabbage. This will give your soup an added depth of flavor and a crunch that adds a bit of excitement to every bite.
Additionally, you can use leeks instead of onions for a milder flavor profile, while still retaining the classic Irish essence. You can also try using different types of potatoes for a variation in texture and taste. Yukon gold or fingerling potatoes offer a creamier texture to mashed potatoes while adding different seasoning such as garlic or herbs into the recipe can elevate the flavors in new ways.
Finally, consider swapping out savoy cabbage for green cabbage or even adding some broccoli or cauliflower to mix things up too. Experiment with any substitutions that appeal to your taste buds and enjoy creating your own version of this beloved traditional Irish dish!
Serving and Pairing
Now that your Irish Colcannon soup is ready, it’s time to serve it up and enjoy this classic Irish dish. This soup is hearty and filling, so it can be served as a main course for a cozy weeknight dinner.
For a traditional presentation, serve the soup with some freshly baked Irish soda bread on the side. The crusty bread will help soak up the creamy broth, leaving you feeling satisfied and warm. You may also sprinkle some chopped fresh thyme over the top of the soup to add some extra flavor.
If you’re looking to elevate the dish for a special occasion, consider serving the Irish Colcannon soup as an appetizer or side dish. Since this soup is packed with potatoes and cabbage, it’s perfect to accompany a meat entrée like roasted lamb or beef.
For those who prefer vegetarian or vegan options, this recipe can easily be adapted by substituting the chicken broth with vegetable broth and using vegan butter instead of regular butter. You can also consider adding some cooked bacon bits on top of each bowl for an extra salty crunch.
Remember that this traditional Irish soup is best enjoyed hot and fresh out of the pot. However, if you have any leftovers, refrigerate them in an air-tight container for up to three days. You can reheat the soup in a saucepan over low heat or in the microwave for a quick lunch or dinner option.
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
Are you looking for a soup recipe that can last you a few days? Look no further than Irish Colcannon Soup! Luckily, this soup can be made ahead of time for an easy meal prep option.
To make ahead: After cooking the soup, let it cool completely and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding extra chicken broth if needed to thin out the soup.
To store: Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze the soup for up to 2 months by placing it into freezer-safe containers or bags. Allow the soup to thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating on the stove or in the microwave.
To reheat: Reheat individual servings of Irish Colcannon Soup on the stove or in a microwave-safe dish. If needed, add more chicken broth to thin out the soup as it tends to thicken as it sits.
Pro tip: Before reheating, stir in some fresh herbs or crumbled bacon for added flavor and texture.
In summary, making Irish Colcannon Soup ahead of time is a great way to save time in your busy schedule. It’s also an ideal option for meal prep, leftovers, and freezing for later. Just follow these simple storing and reheating instructions for continued enjoyment of this delicious soup!
Tips for Perfect Results
Listen up, my fellow foodies. Here are some killer tips that will have you whipping up the most delicious Irish Colcannon Soup in no time!
First of all, when cooking your onions and cabbage, be sure not to overcook them. Keep them slightly crunchy so that they add a nice texture to the soup.
Secondly, make sure you use fresh thyme. Dried thyme will not have the same flavor punch as fresh. Trust me on this one.
When making the mashed potatoes for your soup, use Yukon Gold potatoes as they are the creamiest and best for mashing. Also, don’t over-mash them or it could result in a gluey texture.
Now on to the butter – use a high-quality unsalted butter for maximum flavor. Be generous with it too since it adds richness and depth to the soup.
If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding some crispy smoked bacon to your soup for a smoky flavor kick. Or if you’re looking for a vegan option, substitute the butter with plant-based butter and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Lastly, don’t forget about your garnish game! Top your soup with extra thyme leaves or chopped kale for some color and added nutrition.
Just remember these tips and you’ll be well on your way to creating a bowl of unbeatable Irish Colcannon Soup.
FAQ
Before we wrap things up, let’s dive into some frequently asked questions about the Irish Colcannon Soup recipe. It’s important to clear up any confusion or concerns so that you can enjoy this delicious dish without any hiccups. So, sit back and read on for answers to some of the most common questions about this soup!
What is Irish Colcannon made of?
In this recipe, you’ll learn how to make a classic side dish called Colcannon. It features a rich blend of smooth mashed potatoes, fried cabbage, onions, and crispy bacon bits, all seasoned to perfection with salt and pepper. This dish is an excellent complement to many comfort food meals.
Why is it called colcannon?
Colcannon is a popular Irish side dish that blends creamy mashed potatoes with leafy greens such as cabbage or kale. The name “colcannon” comes from the Gaelic words “cal ceannann,” which translates to “white-headed cabbage,” the traditional vegetable used in the dish. Colcannon is a classic accompaniment to various Irish meat dishes.
What is another name for colcannon?
“Colcannon” or “The Skillet Pot” is a popular Irish song that has been covered by various musicians, including Mary Black.
Why is colcannon eaten at Halloween?
For generations, people have been enjoying a filling meal called Colcannon on Halloween night. It used to be a tradition to hide a ring inside the dish, and rumor had it that whoever discovered it was destined for marriage in the coming year!
Bottom Line
with a persuasive text:
In conclusion, the Irish Colcannon Soup Recipe is a must-try for all soup lovers out there! This hearty version of the classic Irish dish mashed potatoes and cabbage is perfect for any season. The combination of potatoes, savoy cabbage, and onions cooked in cream butter creates a creamy and rich texture that will satisfy your taste buds.
Not only is this recipe delicious, but it’s also incredibly easy to make. You only need a few ingredients that you can easily find at your local grocery store. Plus, you can customize this recipe based on your dietary restrictions. For instance, you can make it vegan by using vegan butter instead of regular butter or adding some diced tempeh bacon for extra flavor.
Additionally, this soup goes great alongside some homemade Irish soda bread. Imagine the aroma of freshly baked bread coming out of the oven mixed with the savory smell of the soup simmering on the stove. It’s simply irresistible!
Overall, whether you’re looking for a comforting soup to warm up on a cold day or just want to try something new and unique, this Irish Colcannon Soup Recipe is the way to go. So grab your apron and get cooking!
Irish Colcannon Soup Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 ounces butter
- 14 1/2 ounces potatoes, peeled and diced
- 6 1/2 ounces onions, diced
- salt and pepper
- 4 1/4 cups chicken stock or 4 1/4 cups vegetable stock
- 2/3 cup creamy milk
- 14 1/2 ounces savoy cabbage
- 1 1/2 ounces butter
Instructions
- Add the butter, potato and onion iton a large saucepan and stir until well coated. Season with salt and pepper. Cover and sweat on a medium heat for 6-10 minutes. Add the stock and bring to a boil, reduce heat and simmer until vegetables are soft.
- To make the buttered cabbage, wash and remove outer leaves, then divide the whole cabbage into 4 sections. Cut out the stalks and then cut into fine shreds across the grain.
- Put 3 tbsp of water into a large saucepan and bring to a boil. Add the cabbage and toss constantly over a high heat, for about 3-5 minutes. Cover for another 2 minutes and then toss again. Add more salt and pepper if needed then add the remaining 1 1/2 oz of butter.
- Remove from heat.
- Puree the potato and onion mixture in a blender and return to the pan. Add the cabbage to the soup. Thin the soup with the milk to the consistency you desire.
Nutrition
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Brian is a British chef cum food blogger who has been in the kitchen since he was a young lad. Growing up in Manchester, he developed a passion for cooking and a keen eye for the perfect dish. He now runs his own blog and YouTube channel, which is dedicated to sharing his passion for food with the world.