Traditional Scottish Rumbledethumps

Featured in Hearty Main Courses.

Rumbledethumps is a comforting Scottish side dish made with creamy mashed potatoes, sautéed cabbage, and fried onions. The mixture is seasoned, topped with grated mature cheddar cheese, and baked until golden and bubbling. Perfect as an accompaniment to hearty meals, this dish blends simple ingredients into a soul-warming favorite. Customize with optional onions or spices to suit your taste and enjoy a slice of traditional Scottish cuisine.

Ranah
Updated on Sun, 27 Apr 2025 21:23:37 GMT
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A slice of cheesy casserole. | yummyflavorsrecipes.com

This Scottish comfort food transforms simple ingredients into a decadent side dish that perfectly complements any main course. Rumbledethumps combines creamy mashed potatoes with tender cabbage, all topped with a golden crust of melted cheese for a dish that celebrates humble ingredients in the most delicious way.

I first discovered rumbledethumps when exploring my Scottish heritage and it quickly became my go-to side dish for Sunday roasts. The name alone makes my children giggle every time I announce it for dinner.

Ingredients

Step-by-Step Instructions

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A white bowl with a piece of food in it. | yummyflavorsrecipes.com

My grandmother always insisted on using the sharpest cheddar possible claiming that the contrast between the mild potatoes and the tangy cheese was what made rumbledethumps special. After years of making this dish I completely agree with her wisdom. When I serve this at gatherings people always ask for the recipe name first then laugh and immediately request seconds.

Make It Your Own

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A slice of cheesy casserole. | yummyflavorsrecipes.com

Storing and Reheating

Historical Background

Serving Suggestions

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What is Rumbledethumps made of?

Rumbledethumps consists of mashed potatoes, sautéed cabbage, and onions, topped with cheese and baked until golden brown.

→ Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute cheddar with other melty cheeses like gruyere or mozzarella for a different flavor.

→ Is Rumbledethumps gluten-free?

Yes, the dish is naturally gluten-free, as it uses basic ingredients like potatoes, cabbage, and cheese. Ensure no cross-contamination in your kitchen if required.

→ What main course pairs well with Rumbledethumps?

It pairs splendidly with roasted meats, grilled fish, or vegetarian mains like lentil loaf or mushroom stew.

→ Can I prepare it ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the dish and refrigerate it. Bake just before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Traditional Rumbledethumps Scottish Dish

Creamy mashed potato, cabbage, and cheddar cheese baked together in a classic Scottish dish.

Prep Time
10 Minutes
Cook Time
40 Minutes
Total Time
50 Minutes
By: Ranah

Category: Hearty Main Dishes

Difficulty: Easy

Cuisine: Scottish

Yield: 6 Servings

Dietary: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free

Ingredients

→ Main Ingredients

01 1kg potatoes, peeled and chopped
02 1 savoy cabbage (250g), roughly sliced
03 75g butter, divided
04 100g mature cheddar cheese, grated
05 2 small onions, sliced (optional)

Instructions

Step 01

Peel and chop the potatoes. Boil them for 15-20 minutes until soft.

Step 02

Slice the onions if using, and fry them in a pan until softened. Set aside.

Step 03

Roughly slice the cabbage and cook it with 50g of butter in a pan until softened and wilted.

Step 04

Mash the boiled potatoes with the remaining butter and season to taste.

Step 05

Preheat the oven to 180°C.

Step 06

Mix the cooked cabbage and fried onions into the mashed potatoes.

Step 07

Transfer the potato and cabbage mixture into an ovenproof dish.

Step 08

Top the mixture with grated cheddar cheese and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.

Step 09

Serve hot as a side dish with your chosen main meal.

Notes

  1. Ensure the cheese is evenly spread for a golden crust.
  2. This dish is traditionally served as a side but can be enjoyed as a main when accompanied by a salad or protein of your choice.

Tools You'll Need

  • Peeler
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Large pot
  • Frying pan
  • Ovenproof dish
  • Oven
  • Masher

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Contains dairy (butter and cheese).

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 327
  • Total Fat: 16 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 39 g
  • Protein: 9 g