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Rumbledethumps Recipe

4.7 from 137 reviews

Rumbledethumps is a traditional Scottish comfort food featuring mashed potatoes blended with sautéed cabbage and onions, topped with sharp cheddar cheese, then baked to golden perfection. This warm, cheesy gratin is both simple and soul-satisfying, perfect as a side dish or a hearty vegetarian meal that embodies classic Celtic home cooking.

Ingredients

Scale

Potatoes

  • 4 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped

Vegetables

  • 1/2 small green cabbage, finely shredded
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped

Dairy

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1/2 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese

Seasonings

  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the dish later.
  2. Boil Potatoes: Place the peeled and chopped potatoes in a pot of salted boiling water and cook until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain well.
  3. Mash Potatoes: Mash the drained potatoes with 1 tablespoon of butter until smooth and creamy.
  4. Sauté Vegetables: While the potatoes cook, melt the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely shredded cabbage and chopped onion. Sauté for about 10 minutes until softened and fragrant. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Combine Mixture: Stir the sautéed cabbage and onion mixture into the mashed potatoes, mixing thoroughly to combine all the flavors evenly.
  6. Assemble Dish: Spoon the potato and cabbage mixture into a greased baking dish, smoothing the top evenly.
  7. Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the grated sharp cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the mixture to create a cheesy crust upon baking.
  8. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
  9. Serve: Allow the dish to cool slightly before serving. This helps the rumbledethumps set and enhances the flavors.

Notes

  • For a richer flavor, consider using smoked cheddar cheese.
  • You can substitute kale for cabbage if preferred for a slightly different texture and taste.
  • Leftovers can be reheated in the oven to maintain the crispy cheese topping.
  • This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted meats or can be enjoyed as a vegetarian main course.
  • Make sure not to over-mash the potatoes for some texture in the dish.

Keywords: Rumbledethumps, Scottish recipe, mashed potatoes, cabbage, cheddar cheese, comfort food, vegetarian gratin