Colcannon

This potato and cabbage dish is traditionally served on Halloween with a ring or lucky charm hidden in the center.

Ingredients

• 1 pound kale (or green leafy cabbage)
• 1 pound potatoes
• 6 scallions (or small bunch of chives)
• ⅔ cup milk (or half-and-half)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 4 to 8 Tablespoons butter, melted

Procedure

1. Remove the tough stalk from the kale or cabbage and shred the leaves finely.
2. Put about 1 inch of water in a saucepan large enough to hold the kale, and add a teaspoon of salt.
3. Heat the salted water until it boils, and add the kale. Cook, covered for 10 to 20 minutes until the kale is very tender. Drain well.
4. Scrub the potatoes and place them in a saucepan, unpeeled. Add water to cover.
5. Heat the water to boiling, and cook the potatoes until tender (about 25 minutes).
6. Drain, peel, and return to the pan over low heat to evaporate any moisture (This will take just a minute or so).
7. Mash the potatoes while warm until they are smooth.
8. Chop scallions and simmer in the milk or cream for about 5 minutes.
9. Gradually add this liquid to the potatoes, beating well to give a soft, fluffy texture.
10. Beat in the kale or cabbage along with the salt and pepper.
11. Heat thoroughly over low heat and serve in bowls. Make an indentation in the center and pour in some melted butter.

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