Colcannon Balls Recipe Review: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Irish Dish
Colcannon, the traditional Irish dish made with mashed potatoes and cabbage or kale, has long been a comfort food favorite. But have you ever tried Colcannon Balls? This creative twist on the classic recipe transforms the humble side dish into a fun, bite-sized appetizer or snack that’s perfect for St. Patrick’s Day or any time you’re craving something hearty and flavorful. After testing this recipe, I’m excited to share my thoughts and tips for making these delightful little bites.
What Are Colcannon Balls?
Colcannon Balls are essentially colcannon mashed into small, round portions, coated in breadcrumbs, and fried or baked until crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside. They’re a fantastic way to repurpose leftover colcannon or to elevate the dish into something new and exciting.
The Recipe Overview
The recipe I tried is straightforward and uses simple, wholesome ingredients. Here’s a quick breakdown of what you’ll need:
Ingredients:
- 4 cups of mashed potatoes (preferably leftover colcannon, which includes cabbage or kale)
- 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese (optional, but highly recommended)
- 1 cup of breadcrumbs (panko works great for extra crunch)
- 1 egg (for binding)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying (or cooking spray for baking)
Instructions:
- Mix the mashed potatoes (or colcannon) with shredded cheese, if using. Season with salt and pepper.
- Form the mixture into small balls, about the size of a golf ball.
- Dip each ball into beaten egg, then roll in breadcrumbs until fully coated.
- Fry in hot oil until golden brown, or bake in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Serve warm with a dipping sauce like sour cream, garlic aioli, or even a tangy mustard.
What Worked Well
- Flavor and Texture
The combination of creamy mashed potatoes and crispy breadcrumbs is a winner. The addition of cheddar cheese adds a rich, savory flavor that takes these balls to the next level. If you’re using traditional colcannon (with cabbage or kale), the slight bitterness of the greens balances the richness of the potatoes and cheese beautifully. - Versatility
These Colcannon Balls are incredibly versatile. They can be served as an appetizer, a side dish, or even a snack. They’re also great for parties or potlucks, as they’re easy to make in large batches. - Customization
The recipe is highly customizable. You can add ingredients like bacon bits, green onions, or even a pinch of smoked paprika for extra flavor. For a healthier version, you can bake them instead of frying. - Leftover Magic
If you have leftover colcannon, this is a fantastic way to give it new life. The balls are easy to assemble, and the frying or baking process adds a delightful crunch that makes them feel like a completely new dish.
What Could Be Improved
- Binding Issues
While the recipe calls for an egg to help bind the mixture, I found that the balls can still be a bit fragile, especially if the mashed potatoes are on the wetter side. To fix this, I recommend chilling the mixture in the fridge for 30 minutes before forming the balls. This makes them easier to handle and less likely to fall apart. - Greasy Texture (When Fried)
Frying the balls gives them a deliciously crispy exterior, but they can end up a bit greasy if the oil isn’t hot enough. Make sure the oil is at the right temperature (around 350°F or 175°C) before frying. Alternatively, baking is a great option for a lighter version. - Sauce Pairing
While the recipe suggests serving the balls with sour cream or aioli, I found that they could benefit from a more robust dipping sauce. A spicy sriracha mayo or a tangy barbecue sauce would add an extra layer of flavor.
Final Thoughts
Colcannon Balls are a fun, creative, and delicious way to enjoy a classic Irish dish. They’re easy to make, highly customizable, and perfect for any occasion. While there are a few minor tweaks that could improve the recipe, the end result is a crowd-pleasing treat that’s sure to impress.
Rating: 8.5/10
This recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves colcannon or is looking for a new way to enjoy mashed potatoes. Whether you fry or bake them, these crispy, creamy bites are guaranteed to be a hit!
Pro Tips
- Use leftover colcannon for the best flavor and texture.
- Chill the mixture before forming the balls to make them easier to handle.
- Experiment with different dipping sauces to find your favorite pairing.
- For a healthier version, bake the balls instead of frying.
Give this recipe a try, and let me know how your Colcannon Balls turn out! Sláinte! 🥔✨