If you’ve never had Irish Potato Cakes, also known as Potato Farls, you’re in for a treat. These golden, buttery, pan-fried potato cakes are made with simple ingredients and are a staple in a traditional Irish breakfast. They have a crispy outside, soft inside, and just the right amount of richness from mashed potatoes and butter. Whether served as a side dish, a snack, or with a fried egg on top, they’re pure comfort food!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- A great way to use up leftover mashed potatoes
- Super simple ingredients, big flavor
- Crispy, buttery, and totally addicting
Ingredients
(A quick preview—find the full ingredient list below!)
- Leftover mashed potatoes
- All-purpose flour
- Butter
- Salt and baking powder
Directions
Step 1: Make the Dough
In a bowl, mix the mashed potatoes with flour, salt, and baking powder. Knead gently until it forms a soft dough.
Step 2: Roll and Cut
On a floured surface, roll out the dough into a thick circle (about ¼-inch thick). Cut into quarters to form four triangle-shaped farls.
Step 3: Cook Until Golden
Heat a bit of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the farls for 2-3 minutes per side until they’re golden brown and crispy.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Enjoy them warm with butter, or as part of a full Irish breakfast!
Expert Tips and Tricks
- Use cold mashed potatoes – They hold together better.
- Don’t overwork the dough – A light hand keeps them tender.
- Cook in butter for extra richness – But a mix of butter and oil prevents burning.
Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions
- Make them cheesy – Add shredded Irish cheddar to the dough.
- Try sweet potato farls – Swap in mashed sweet potatoes for a fun twist.
- Add herbs – Chopped chives or green onions give a nice pop of flavor.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
Potato farls are perfect with:
- A fried or poached egg – A runny yolk is the best topping.
- Bacon or sausage – Classic Irish breakfast pairings.
- Sour cream or apple sauce – For a different flavor twist.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in a dry pan or toaster oven for the best crispiness.
FAQs
- Can I freeze potato farls?
Yes! Freeze them in a single layer, then reheat in a pan. - Do I have to use leftover mashed potatoes?
Freshly mashed potatoes work too—just let them cool first. - Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes! Swap the flour for a gluten-free blend. - What’s the difference between potato farls and potato pancakes?
Farls are thicker and made with mashed potatoes, while pancakes are usually grated.
Conclusion
Irish Potato Cakes (Potato Farls) are a simple, delicious, and traditional dish that you’ll want to make again and again. Whether served for breakfast, as a side, or on their own with butter, they’re pure Irish comfort food!
PrintIrish Potato Cakes (Potato Farls) – A Cozy, Traditional Favorite
Irish Potato Cakes, or Potato Farls, are a traditional Irish dish made from simple ingredients—mashed potatoes, flour, butter, and seasoning. Pan-fried to golden perfection, they have a crispy exterior and a soft, fluffy inside. These delicious potato cakes are a fantastic way to use up leftover mashed potatoes and make a comforting addition to breakfast or as a tasty snack.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish, Breakfast
- Method: Pan-Fried
- Cuisine: Irish
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 2 cups leftover mashed potatoes (cold)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
- 2 tbsp butter, melted (plus extra for frying)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
Instructions
In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, flour, salt, and baking powder. Mix until a soft dough forms.
Lightly flour a surface and roll out the dough into a ¼-inch thick circle. Cut into four triangle-shaped farls.
Heat a skillet over medium heat and melt a little butter. Cook the farls for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
Serve warm with butter or as part of an Irish breakfast with eggs, bacon, and sausage.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, cook over medium-low heat and flip when golden.
- If using freshly mashed potatoes, let them cool before making the dough.
- Try adding grated cheese, herbs, or garlic powder for extra flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 potato cake
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 0.5g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 12mg