The traditional Irish champ mash is packed with flavours and is an excellent side dish with bacon and even fish. This creamy potato dish has also been elected the most classic dish in Ireland. The flavoursome scallions and plump potatoes are blended with butter and milk into a perfect creamy mash.
Lots of dishes that looks and tastes exactly like the champ could be found in various parts of Ireland. Colcannon too is a potato mash in which fresh cabbages are used instead of scallions.
Champ became popular in Ireland as a simple yet nutritious food that people could afford during the times of famine and political upheavals. The basic idea behind the champ was a simple and delicious dish that could be easily made using the ingredients that are available in all seasons. Later, when Ireland saw the dawn of peace and prosperity, the champ got modified with cooks experimenting with the ingredients and flavours. However, it is the simple ingredients and flavours that make champ a favourite among the Irish people.
Interestingly, elaborate garnishes are not seen on champ. It is the delicious champ that is served every year, on the festival to honour the memories of the departed souls. A coin would be hidden in the champ that is wrapped in paper and distributed to the guests. It is believed that the person who gets the coin is lucky.
