Name: Scottish Rumbledethumps Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Scottish
Ingredients: 21 oz boiled and mashed russet potatoes (about 3 medium potatoes); 14 oz boiled and mashed turnips (about 2 medium turnips); 9 oz green cabbage, thinly sliced (about 1/2 a head); 3 oz unsalted butter (divided); 1 oz sharp cheddar cheese, grated (about 1/4 cup); 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Jump to Recipe

Introduction

Scottish Rumbledethumps is a comforting, rustic dish combining creamy mashed potatoes, turnips, and sautéed cabbage topped with melted cheddar. It’s a perfect hearty side or a simple vegetarian main that brings a taste of traditional Scotland to your table.

A close-up view of a white plate filled with creamy mashed potatoes topped with browned, seared pieces of meat covered in thick brown gravy. The mashed potatoes form one smooth, light-yellow layer at the bottom, while the meat chunks are arranged on top in a scattered pattern with slight charring and a glistening surface. The glossy gravy coats the meat and pools slightly over the mashed potatoes, creating a rich and textured look. A small green parsley leaf is placed in the center for a pop of color. The plate is set on a white marbled surface, with blurred bowls of food in the background, giving a warm and inviting feeling. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

21 oz boiled and mashed russet potatoes (about 3 medium potatoes)
14 oz boiled and mashed turnips (about 2 medium turnips)
3 oz unsalted butter (divided)
9 oz green cabbage, thinly sliced (about 1/2 a head)
1 oz sharp cheddar cheese, grated (about 1/4 cup)
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9 inch baking dish with a small amount of butter to prevent sticking.
Step 2: In a skillet over medium heat, melt 2 ounces of butter. Add the thinly sliced cabbage and sauté for about 5 minutes until it softens slightly but still retains some texture.
Step 3: In a large bowl, combine the boiled and mashed potatoes, boiled and mashed turnips, sautéed cabbage, the remaining 1 ounce of butter, kosher salt, and black pepper. Mash everything together thoroughly until well blended.
Step 4: Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the grated sharp cheddar cheese evenly on top.
Step 5: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes until the cheese is lightly browned and bubbly.
Step 6: Allow the Rumbledethumps to rest for 5 minutes before serving. This will help it set and make it easier to slice. Enjoy your warm, flavorful dish!

Tips & Variations

For extra richness, stir in a splash of cream or milk into the mashed potato and turnip mixture before baking.
Swap cheddar for a smoky cheese like Gouda or smoked mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
Add cooked bacon or pancetta pieces to the cabbage for a non-vegetarian twist.
Use kale or savoy cabbage instead of green cabbage for a slightly different texture and taste.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 325°F (160°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions on medium power. Avoid overheating to prevent drying out.

How to Serve

A white plate holds two layers: the bottom layer is smooth and creamy mashed potatoes with a light yellow color, and the top layer consists of golden brown browned chicken pieces coated with a shiny, rich brown gravy. The chicken pieces have a slightly crispy texture with small charred spots. At the center, a small sprig of green parsley adds a fresh pop of color. The plate sits on a white marbled surface with blurred white and green bowls in the background, making the dish the clear focus. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make Rumbledethumps ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mixture and assemble it in the baking dish a few hours before baking. Keep it refrigerated until ready to bake, then follow the baking instructions as normal.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, Rumbledethumps is naturally gluten-free as it contains no wheat or gluten ingredients. Just be sure the cheese you use is also gluten-free if you have sensitivities.