Rumbledethumps: A Hearty Scottish Potato and Cabbage Casserole

I’m thrilled to share with you my recipe for Rumbledethumps, a traditional Scottish dish that embodies the essence of comfort food. This hearty casserole, with its delightful combination of potatoes, cabbage, and cheese, is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a testament to the resourcefulness and ingenuity of Scottish cuisine.

The Curious Origins of Rumbledethumps

Rumbledethumps, despite its whimsical name, is a dish deeply rooted in Scottish culinary tradition. It hails from the Scottish Borders region and is closely related to other British Isles dishes like Colcannon (Irish) and Bubble and Squeak (English). The origin of its name is somewhat mysterious, but it’s believed to be onomatopoeic, possibly referring to the sound made while mashing the ingredients together.

This dish exemplifies the Scottish tradition of making the most of simple, readily available ingredients. It was likely born out of necessity, as a way to use up leftover vegetables and potatoes, transforming them into a filling and delicious meal. Today, Rumbledethumps stands as a beloved comfort food, cherished for its rustic charm and satisfying flavors.

Ingredients

  • 2 lbs (900g) potatoes, peeled and chunked
  • 1 head cabbage or bunch kale, chopped
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 4 tbsp (60g / 2 oz) butter, divided
  • 1/2 cup (120ml / 4 fl oz) milk or cream
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 cups (200g / 7 oz) shredded cheddar cheese
  • 3 green onions, finely chopped

Detailed Instructions

  1. Begin by preparing your potatoes. Peel them and cut them into roughly equal-sized chunks. This ensures even cooking. Place the potato chunks in a large pot of cold, salted water and bring to a boil. Cook until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork, usually about 15-20 minutes. Once done, drain the potatoes thoroughly and return them to the pot.
  2. While the potatoes are cooking, melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it becomes soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. This process not only softens the onion but also brings out its natural sweetness.
  3. Add your chopped cabbage or kale to the skillet with the softened onions. If using cabbage, you may need to add it in batches as it wilts down. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the greens are wilted and tender. This should take about 10 minutes for cabbage, or 5-7 minutes for kale. The key is to cook the greens until they’re soft but still retain a bit of texture.
  4. Now, it’s time to mash your cooked potatoes. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and the milk or cream to the pot with the drained potatoes. Using a potato masher or a large fork, mash the potatoes until they reach your desired consistency. Some people prefer a smoother mash, while others enjoy a more rustic texture with a few lumps.
  5. Combine your mashed potatoes with the cooked vegetables from the skillet. Mix them together gently but thoroughly. This is where the real magic of Rumbledethumps happens – the meeting of creamy potatoes and savory vegetables. Season the mixture generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Remember, potatoes absorb a lot of salt, so don’t be shy with the seasoning.
  6. Transfer this delightful mixture to a large baking dish. Spread it out evenly, creating a slightly rough surface. These little peaks and valleys will create delicious crispy bits during baking.
  7. Preheat your oven to 360°F (180°C).
  8. Top your casserole with a generous layer of shredded cheddar cheese. The cheese will melt and create a golden, crispy top that’s irresistibly delicious. Feel free to use a sharp cheddar for extra flavor, or experiment with other types of cheese like Gruyère or a mixture of cheddar and Parmesan.
  9. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown. If you like a crispier top, you can finish it under the broiler for a minute or two, but watch it closely to prevent burning.
  10. Once out of the oven, let the Rumbledethumps cool for a few minutes. Just before serving, sprinkle the top with finely chopped green onions. This adds a fresh, vibrant touch to the rich, comforting casserole.

Serving Suggestions

Rumbledethumps is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways:

  • As a main course: Serve a generous portion alongside a crisp green salad for a satisfying vegetarian meal.
  • As a side dish: It pairs wonderfully with roasted meats, especially a traditional roast beef or lamb.
  • For breakfast: Leftover Rumbledethumps can be reheated and topped with a fried egg for a hearty breakfast.
  • At a gathering: Cut into smaller portions, it makes a great appetizer or party food.

Nutrition Information

Per serving (assuming 6 servings):

  • Calories: Approximately 400
  • Protein: 15g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fat: 22g
  • Fiber: 6g
  • Sodium: 400mg (varies based on how much salt is added)

Please note that these are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Tips for Perfect Rumbledethumps

  1. Choose the right potatoes: Starchy potatoes like Russets or Maris Piper work best for mashing.
  2. Don’t overwork the potatoes: Overmixing can make them gluey. Mix just until combined for the best texture.
  3. Experiment with greens: While cabbage is traditional, kale, collard greens, or even Brussels sprouts can work well.
  4. Make it your own: Add other vegetables like carrots or parsnips for extra flavor and nutrition.
  5. Prep ahead: You can assemble the casserole earlier in the day and refrigerate it. Just bring it to room temperature before baking.
  6. Leftovers: Rumbledethumps reheats beautifully. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat in the oven for best results.
  7. Freezing: You can freeze Rumbledethumps before baking. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed.

By following these instructions and tips, you’ll create a Rumbledethumps that’s not only delicious but also a tribute to Scottish culinary tradition. The combination of creamy potatoes, tender vegetables, and crispy cheese creates a comforting dish that’s perfect for cool evenings or any time you need a bit of culinary warmth.

This dish is more than just a recipe – it’s a celebration of simple ingredients transformed into something special. It represents the heart of home cooking, where leftovers become the star of a new meal and humble vegetables are elevated to delicious heights.

Remember, cooking is about more than following a recipe – it’s about creating memories and sharing comfort. Don’t be afraid to adjust the seasonings or ingredients to suit your taste. The joy of cooking lies not just in the end result, but in the process of creation and the pleasure of sharing your efforts with others.

Enjoy the process of making Rumbledethumps, and savor every creamy, cheesy bite of this Scottish classic. Slàinte mhath! (That’s “Cheers!” in Scottish Gaelic.)

Join the Made By Emily Community!

Join the Emily newsletter to get exclusive recipes, tips and more!

You have Successfully Subscribed!

Pin It on Pinterest