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Authentic Irish Potato Farls Recipe

5 from 105 reviews

Authentic Irish Potato Farls are traditional savory potato cakes made with mashed potatoes, flour, and simple seasonings. These golden-brown farls are soft on the inside with a slightly crisp exterior, perfect for a hearty breakfast or side dish. Using classic ingredients like Russet or Maris Piper potatoes and cooked in butter, this recipe captures the comforting flavors of Irish cuisine.

Ingredients

Scale

Potato Farls

  • 4 cups (650g / 1lb 7oz) potatoes (Russet, Maris Piper, or Roosters), peeled and chopped
  • ¾ cup (4oz / 115g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ teaspoons sea salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons (1oz / 28g) butter, plus extra for cooking

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Potatoes: Peel and chop the potatoes into evenly sized chunks, then boil them in salted water until very tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain thoroughly.
  2. Mash the Potatoes: While still warm, mash the potatoes in a large bowl until smooth and lump-free. Let them cool slightly but keep them warm for easy mixing.
  3. Make the Dough: Add the all-purpose flour, sea salt, and black pepper to the mashed potatoes. Mix thoroughly to combine into a soft dough. Add the 2 tablespoons of butter and mix until incorporated.
  4. Shape the Farls: Divide the dough into four equal portions. On a lightly floured surface, shape each portion into a round disc about 6 inches in diameter and about ½ inch thick. Cut each disc into four triangular farls.
  5. Cook the Farls: Heat a non-stick skillet or frying pan over medium heat and melt a small knob of butter. Place the potato farls in the pan and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and crisp.
  6. Serve: Remove from the pan and serve hot. They pair wonderfully with butter, eggs, or as part of a traditional Irish breakfast.

Notes

  • Use starchy potatoes like Russet or Maris Piper for the best texture.
  • Ensure potatoes are mashed very well to avoid lumps in the dough.
  • Keeping the dough slightly warm helps it to bind better.
  • Add butter while cooking for a rich flavor and crisp exterior.
  • Potato farls can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days and reheated in a pan.

Keywords: Irish potato farls, traditional Irish recipe, potato cakes, savory potato bread