Scottish Rumbledethumps is a traditional Scottish dish that combines mashed potatoes, cabbage, and sometimes onions or leeks, all baked together into a hearty, comforting casserole. It’s a wonderful, rustic side dish, often served alongside meats like roast beef or sausages. The name “rumbledethumps” is thought to refer to the sound of the potatoes being mashed, and it’s a dish that reflects the simple, homey flavors of Scottish cuisine.
Here’s how to make Scottish Rumbledethumps:
Scottish Rumbledethumps Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs (about 900g) potatoes, peeled and chopped
- 1 small head of green cabbage, shredded (about 3 cups)
- 1 large onion or 2 leeks, finely chopped (optional)
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1/2 cup milk (or cream for extra richness)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup grated cheese (typically Cheddar, but a mix of Cheddar and Gruyère works well)
- A pinch of nutmeg (optional)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for frying the onions or leeks)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Potatoes:
- Boil the potatoes in a large pot of salted water until they are tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Cabbage:
- While the potatoes are cooking, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onions or leeks (if using) and cook for about 5 minutes until they soften and become translucent.
- Add the shredded cabbage and cook, stirring occasionally, for 5-7 minutes until the cabbage is tender and slightly caramelized. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg if desired. Set aside.
- Mash the Potatoes:
- Once the potatoes are drained, return them to the pot and mash them with butter and milk (or cream) until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine the Ingredients:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, cooked cabbage mixture, and half of the grated cheese. Mix everything together until well combined.
- Bake the Rumbledethumps:
- Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Enjoy as a hearty side dish to meats or as a comforting vegetarian main course!
Rumbledethumps is a perfect example of comfort food—simple, satisfying, and full of flavor. The mashed potatoes and cabbage come together beautifully with the creamy richness of cheese, and the dish is easy to adapt based on what you have in your kitchen. It’s great for cold weather or a cozy family meal.
