I know that St. Patrick’s Day is still six months away (exactly six months from today!), but I wanted to try out this traditional Irish potato dish early so I could decide if I wanted to add it to our holiday meal next year. I loved it…potatoes, bacon, cabbage…how can you go wrong? It got mixed reviews from the rest of my family, but enough of us liked it that I think I just may make it on March 17 next year!

• 2 1/2 pounds potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 4 slices bacon
• 1/2 small head of cabbage, chopped
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 1/2 cup milk
• salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup butter, melted

Place potatoes in a saucepan with enough water to cover. Bring to a boil, and cook for 15 to 20 minutes, until tender.
Place bacon in a large, deep skillet. Cook over medium high heat until evenly brown. Drain, reserving drippings, crumble and set aside. In the reserved drippings, saute the cabbage and onion until soft and translucent. Putting a lid on the pan helps the vegetables cook faster.
Drain the cooked potatoes, mash with milk and season with salt and pepper. Fold in the bacon, cabbage, and onions, then transfer the mixture to a large serving bowl. Make a well in the center, and pour in the melted butter. Serve immediately.