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Cheesy Fried Colcannon Balls: A Delightful Twist on a Classic Dish

Colcannon, a traditional Irish dish, typically consists of creamy mashed potatoes mixed with finely chopped kale or cabbage and a generous splash of milk and butter. It’s a warm and comforting meal, especially during the colder months. But what if we could take this revered classic and give it a cheeky twist? Enter Cheesy Fried Colcannon Balls – a delightful recipe that combines the essence of colcannon with the crispy allure of fried snacks.

A Taste of Tradition with a Twist

Carolyn’s Cooking brings us this creative take on colcannon, perfect as a hearty side dish or an irresistible party snack. Cheesy Fried Colcannon Balls encapsulate all the comforting flavours of the original dish while adding a fantastic crunch that makes them utterly moreish.

The addition of cheese not only enhances the flavour but also introduces a gooey, melty texture inside each ball, creating a wonderful contrast to the crispy exterior. Whether you’re making these for a casual family dinner or a lively gathering with friends, they are bound to be a hit.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To whip up these scrumptious Cheesy Fried Colcannon Balls, gather the following ingredients:

• 500g potatoes (preferably floury varieties like Maris Piper)
• 200g kale or cabbage, finely chopped
• 150ml milk
• 50g butter
• 100g cheddar cheese, grated (or any cheese of your choice)
• 1 egg
• 100g breadcrumbs (for coating)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Vegetable oil (for frying)

Method: Getting It Just Right

1. Prepare the Potatoes: Begin by peeling the potatoes and cutting them into quarters. Boil them in salted water until tender, which should take around 15-20 minutes.

2. Cook the Greens: While the potatoes are boiling, steam or blanch the kale or cabbage until soft. Drain and chop finely, then set aside.

3. Mash It Up: Once the potatoes are cooked, drain and return them to the pot. Add the butter and milk, then mash until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Combine Ingredients: Mix the chopped greens and grated cheese into the mashed potatoes. Allow the mixture to cool slightly before adding the egg to bind everything together.

5. Form the Balls: Once the mixture is cool enough to handle, take a handful and shape it into a ball, roughly the size of a golf ball. Repeat until you’ve used up all the mixture.

6. Breadcrumb Coating: Roll each ball in breadcrumbs until fully coated. This step ensures a delightful crunch once fried.

7. Fry It Up: Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or skillet over medium heat. Fry the colcannon balls in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook until golden and crispy, around 4-5 minutes. Remove from the oil and drain on kitchen paper.

Serving Suggestions

Cheesy Fried Colcannon Balls can be served as they are, or with a variety of dips. Consider pairing them with a tangy sour cream and chive dip, a zesty tomato salsa, or even a spicy mayonnaise for a little kick. They are also fantastic as part of a larger spread alongside other Irish-inspired dishes – think hearty stews and fresh soda bread.

A Cheesy Celebration

This innovative take on colcannon is not just a feast for the palate; it’s a celebration of flavours and textures. Cheesy Fried Colcannon Balls are an excellent way to introduce traditional dishes to a new audience, making them appealing to both the adventurous eater and the traditionalist. So, whether you’re cooking for a family gathering, a friendly get-together, or simply indulging in a delightful treat at home, these cheesy bites are sure to win hearts.

Try out Carolyn’s recipe today and bring a bit of Irish culinary flair to your kitchen. Enjoy the crispy crunch begging for a dip, along with the cheesy, comforting insides that remind you of home-cooked goodness!

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