Irish Potato Farls, also known as potato bread, are a traditional Irish dish made from mashed potatoes and flour, pan-fried until golden and crispy. This simple yet hearty recipe is a classic breakfast staple in Northern Ireland, often served with a full Irish breakfast or enjoyed on their own with butter.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple ingredients: Made with pantry staples, this recipe is easy and budget-friendly.
- Comfort food: Warm, buttery, and crispy, potato farls are pure comfort in every bite.
- Versatile: Serve them as a side dish, snack, or part of a full breakfast.
- Quick to prepare: With leftover mashed potatoes, this recipe comes together in no time.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Mashed potatoes (preferably made with butter and milk for added flavor)
- All-purpose flour
- Salt
- Butter or oil (for frying)
Directions
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes with salt. Gradually add the flour, mixing until a soft dough forms. You may not need all the flour, so add it slowly.
- Shape the Farls:
- On a floured surface, roll the dough into a circle about 1/2 inch thick. Cut into quarters to form four triangle-shaped pieces.
- Cook the Farls:
- Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat and melt a small amount of butter or oil.
- Place the farls in the skillet and cook for 3-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- Serve:
- Serve warm, slathered with butter, or as a side with eggs, sausage, and bacon for a traditional Irish breakfast.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4 (one farl per serving)
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 10 minutes
- Total time: 20 minutes
Variations
- Cheesy Farls: Mix grated cheddar or Parmesan cheese into the dough for a cheesy twist.
- Herb-Infused: Add chopped chives, parsley, or rosemary for added flavor.
- Sweet Potato Farls: Substitute mashed sweet potatoes for a unique flavor profile.
- Vegan Option: Use vegan butter or oil and ensure mashed potatoes are dairy-free.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftover farls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through and crisp, or microwave in short intervals.
- Freezing: Freeze cooked farls in a single layer. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag and store for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen.
FAQs
1. What are potato farls?
Potato farls are a traditional Irish dish made from mashed potatoes and flour, cooked on a skillet until golden and crispy.
2. Can I use leftover mashed potatoes?
Yes, leftover mashed potatoes are ideal for this recipe, especially if they’re already seasoned.
3. Do I need to use a specific type of potato?
Starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds work best for a fluffy texture.
4. How can I make my farls fluffier?
Ensure your mashed potatoes are smooth and avoid overworking the dough, which can make the farls dense.
5. Can I bake farls instead of frying?
Yes, bake them on a parchment-lined baking sheet at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
6. What can I serve with potato farls?
They’re delicious with butter, jam, or as part of a full Irish breakfast with eggs, sausage, and bacon.
7. Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend as a substitute for regular flour.
8. Why are they called “farls”?
The term “farl” comes from the Gaelic word “fardel,” meaning a quarter or fourth, referring to the triangular shape of the pieces.
9. How do I keep farls warm for serving?
Place cooked farls in a low oven (around 200°F or 95°C) while you prepare the rest.
10. Can I add other ingredients to the dough?
Absolutely! You can mix in grated cheese, cooked bacon bits, or even caramelized onions for extra flavor.
Conclusion
Authentic Irish Potato Farls are a simple yet delicious dish that brings a taste of Irish tradition to your table. Whether enjoyed as part of a hearty breakfast or a comforting snack, these crispy, golden triangles are sure to become a favorite. Try this easy recipe and savor the flavors of Ireland in your own kitchen!
Print
Authentic Irish Potato Farls Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 farls (serves 2–4) 1x
- Category: Breakfast, Side Dish
- Method: Pan-Fried
- Cuisine: Irish
Description
Irish Potato Farls are a traditional dish made from mashed potatoes, flour, and a touch of butter. These pan-fried flatbreads are crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and perfect for breakfast or as a side to hearty Irish meals. Simple, rustic, and incredibly comforting!
Ingredients
- 1 lb (about 2 cups) mashed potatoes, freshly made or leftover
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
- Butter or oil for frying
Instructions
- Prepare the dough:
- In a mixing bowl, combine mashed potatoes, flour, butter, and salt. Mix until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms.
- Shape the farls:
- Lightly flour a work surface and knead the dough gently for 1–2 minutes.
- Roll the dough into a ½-inch thick circle (about 8 inches in diameter).
- Cut the circle into quarters (farls).
- Cook the farls:
- Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and add a small amount of butter or oil.
- Cook the farls for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and slightly crisp.
- Serve:
- Serve warm, slathered with butter or alongside bacon, eggs, or other breakfast favorites.
Notes
- To ensure a smooth dough, use warm mashed potatoes, as they’re easier to mix.
- For extra flavor, add chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives to the dough.
- Potato farls are best eaten fresh but can be reheated in a skillet or toaster.