Irish Potato Bread, also known as “Fadge” or “Potato Farls,” is a traditional Irish bread made with mashed potatoes, flour, and a few simple ingredients. This bread is soft, slightly chewy, and perfect for breakfast or alongside hearty stews. It’s typically cooked on a griddle or skillet, giving it a lovely golden crust. Irish Potato Bread is a delicious way to use up leftover mashed potatoes and adds a comforting, rustic touch to any meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to make: Simple ingredients and minimal preparation.
- Great use for leftovers: Perfect for using up mashed potatoes.
- Versatile: Enjoy it with sweet or savory toppings.
- Authentic taste: Brings a traditional Irish flavor to your table.
- Ideal for any meal: Perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 2 cups mashed potatoes (preferably cold leftovers)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon baking powder (optional, for a lighter texture)
Directions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, flour, salt, and baking powder (if using). Add the melted butter and mix until a soft dough forms.
- Shape the Dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead lightly until smooth. Shape it into a round disc about ½ inch thick.
- Cut into Farls: Use a knife to cut the dough into quarters, creating four triangular pieces called “farls.”
- Cook the Potato Bread: Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease it with butter or oil. Cook the farls for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve: Serve warm with butter, jam, or as a side for breakfast or stews.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Variations
- Cheesy Potato Bread: Mix in grated cheddar or Irish cheese for extra flavor.
- Herbed Version: Add fresh herbs like chives, rosemary, or parsley to the dough.
- Garlic Potato Bread: Mix in garlic powder or fresh minced garlic for a savory twist.
- Sweet Version: Add a bit of sugar and cinnamon to the dough for a sweet treat.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend to accommodate dietary needs.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave for a few seconds.
- Freezing: Freeze cooked farls in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen or thaw before warming.
FAQs
Can I use instant mashed potatoes?
Yes, you can use instant mashed potatoes, but avoid overly wet or creamy potatoes to maintain the right dough consistency.
What if my dough is too sticky?
Add a bit more flour, a tablespoon at a time, until the dough is manageable.
Do I need to add baking powder?
Baking powder is optional but helps make the bread lighter and fluffier.
Can I bake Irish Potato Bread instead of frying it?
Traditionally, it’s cooked on a skillet, but you can bake it at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes until golden.
How do I serve Irish Potato Bread?
Serve it with butter, jam, or as a side to breakfast dishes like eggs and bacon, or alongside soups and stews.
Can I add other ingredients to the dough?
Yes, mix in ingredients like cooked bacon, scallions, or even cooked spinach for added flavor.
How do I make this bread dairy-free?
Use a dairy-free butter substitute or omit the butter altogether.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the dough, wrap it tightly, and refrigerate for up to a day before cooking.
What if I don’t have a skillet?
You can use a non-stick pan or even bake it in the oven as a flatbread.
Is Irish Potato Bread the same as soda bread?
No, potato bread uses mashed potatoes and is often cooked on a griddle, while soda bread is a traditional loaf with baking soda as a leavening agent.
Conclusion
Irish Potato Bread is a simple and comforting recipe that brings a taste of Ireland to your kitchen. Whether you’re making it for a cozy breakfast, a St. Patrick’s Day celebration, or as a delicious side for soups and stews, this versatile bread is sure to please. With just a few ingredients and easy preparation, you can enjoy warm, golden potato farls with a soft interior and a crispy crust. Give this traditional recipe a try and savor the wonderful flavors of homemade Irish Potato Bread!
Print
Irish Potato Bread
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Bread, Side Dish
- Method: Pan-Fried
- Cuisine: Irish
Description
Irish Potato Bread, also known as potato farls, is a traditional Irish recipe made with mashed potatoes, flour, and a pinch of salt. These soft and tender flatbreads are perfect for breakfast, served with butter, or as a side with soups and stews.
Ingredients
- 2 cups mashed potatoes (preferably made with floury potatoes like Russets)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder (optional, for fluffier bread)
Instructions
-
Prepare the Potatoes:
If using fresh potatoes, peel, boil, and mash them until smooth. Let the mashed potatoes cool slightly. -
Mix the Dough:
In a large bowl, combine mashed potatoes, flour, melted butter, salt, and baking powder (if using). Mix until a soft dough forms. The dough should be slightly sticky but hold its shape. -
Shape the Dough:
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/2-inch thick. Cut the dough into quarters to create four triangular pieces (farls). -
Cook the Potato Bread:
Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Cook the potato farls for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and slightly crispy on the outside.
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Serve:
Serve warm with butter, or use as a base for a full Irish breakfast with eggs, bacon, and sausages.
Notes
- Make sure the mashed potatoes are not too wet; if needed, add a bit more flour to the dough.
- Add chopped chives or shredded cheese to the dough for extra flavor.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator and reheated in a skillet or toaster.