Irish Seafood Chowder meets Colcannon

Indulge in a culinary journey where Ireland’s coastal bounty meets its cherished potato dish. This recipe harmoniously blends the rich, savory notes of an Irish Seafood Chowder with the creamy texture of Colcannon, creating a heartwarming fusion that celebrates the essence of Irish cuisine.
“When the sea meets the earth, magic happens on your plate.”
Ingredients
For the Chowder:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 4 cups fish or vegetable stock
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 ounces smoked salmon, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 12 ounces cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Colcannon:
- 2 large potatoes, boiled and mashed
- 1/2 cup milk or cream
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 small cabbage, finely chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Chopped fresh chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Prepare the Colcannon: Start by boiling the potatoes until tender, then mash them with milk or cream and butter until smooth. In a separate pan, sauté the cabbage in 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat until softened but still vibrant. Fold the cabbage into the mashed potatoes, season with salt and pepper, and set aside.
Sauté Aromatics: Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until they are soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
Simmer the Chowder Base: Stir in the diced potatoes and pour in the fish or vegetable stock. Bring to a simmer and cook until the potatoes are tender, approximately 15 minutes.
Enrich with Cream and Seafood: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Add the smoked salmon and shrimp, cooking just until heated through, about 3-5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Combine Chowder and Colcannon: Spoon a generous amount of the prepared Colcannon into each serving bowl. Ladle the hot seafood chowder over the Colcannon, allowing it to meld together beautifully.
This fusion dish offers a comforting embrace, perfect for chilly evenings or special gatherings. The creamy Colcannon elevates the traditional chowder with its unique texture and flavor, while the rich seafood adds depth and heartiness. Enjoy this delightful blend of Irish culinary traditions that promises warmth and satisfaction in every spoonful. Pair it with a crisp green salad and a slice of soda bread for an authentic experience.