Peel the potatoes and cut them into 2-inch pieces for even cooking. Place them in a large pot, cover with cold salted water, and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes until the potatoes are completely tender and easily pierced with a fork. Drain well in a colander, then return them to the hot pot. Cover the pot with a clean kitchen cloth and the lid to keep the potatoes warm and allow residual heat to dry them out slightly—this helps them mash to a creamier texture.

While the potatoes cook, mince the shallots and chop the green onions, keeping them separate. In a large skillet, melt the 2.5 oz butter over medium heat. Add the minced shallots and cook for about 2 minutes until softened and fragrant. Add the stemmed kale (chopped into ½-inch ribbons) and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the kale is wilted and tender. Finish by stirring in the green onions and cooking for another 2 minutes. Season the greens with the ¼ teaspoon salt and white pepper, then set aside.

Add the 2.5 oz butter to the warm potatoes in the pot and begin mashing with a potato ricer or masher until mostly smooth. I like to warm the half and half to about 110°F before adding it—this prevents it from cooling down the hot potatoes and helps you achieve a silkier, fluffier mash. Gradually add the warm half and half while continuing to mash until you reach your desired consistency (I prefer it creamy but still with some texture). Fold in the cooked kale and green onion mixture from Step 2, stirring gently until the greens are evenly distributed. Taste and adjust seasoning with the ½ teaspoon salt and a pinch of grated nutmeg for that classic Halloween colcannon warmth.

Divide the colcannon into warm bowls or a serving dish. Create a small well in the center of each portion and place a pat of butter in it, allowing it to melt slightly into the colcannon as it's eaten. The warm colcannon will create a beautiful presentation with the golden butter melting into the creamy, vibrant green interior—perfect for the Halloween table.