Traditional Irish Potato Farls

A soft, pillowy take on Irish potato bread, these traditional potato farls are griddle-cooked to golden perfection. Lightly crisp on the outside and fluffy on the inside, they are a must-have for any Irish breakfast or tea-time treat. Made with simple ingredients, potato farls are a delicious way to use up leftover mashed potatoes while enjoying a taste of Irish heritage.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy – Ready in just 20 minutes with minimal prep.
• Uses Simple Ingredients – Made with pantry staples and leftover mashed potatoes.
• Soft and Fluffy Texture – Buttermilk adds extra lightness, making them even more delicious.
• Versatile – Perfect with butter, jam, or served as part of a full Irish breakfast.
• No Oven Required – Cooked on a stovetop griddle for convenience.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Mashed potatoes (warm, no added butter or milk)
• All-purpose flour
• Salt
• Baking powder
• Unsalted butter (melted)
• Buttermilk (optional, for a softer texture)

Directions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm mashed potatoes with salt, baking powder, and melted butter.
2. Gradually mix in the flour until a soft dough forms. If using buttermilk, add it for a slightly fluffier texture.
3. Lightly flour a clean surface and roll out the dough to about 1/2-inch thickness.
4. Cut into squares or traditional triangle shapes.
5. Heat a dry griddle or non-stick skillet over medium heat.
6. Cook the potato farls for 3–4 minutes per side, until golden brown and slightly crispy.
7. Serve warm with butter, jam, or alongside a hearty Irish breakfast.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 8 farls
• Calories: 135 kcal per serving

Variations

• Cheesy Potato Farls – Add ½ cup of grated Irish cheddar for a rich, savory twist.
• Herbed Farls – Mix in chopped fresh chives or parsley for extra flavor.
• Gluten-Free Option – Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for a celiac-friendly version.
• Spiced Farls – Add a pinch of garlic powder or black pepper for extra depth.
• Sweet Potato Farls – Swap out regular mashed potatoes for mashed sweet potatoes for a slightly sweet variation.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store cooled farls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Wrap individual farls in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Warm in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes per side, or microwave for 20–30 seconds until heated through.

FAQs

What are potato farls?

Potato farls are a type of Irish potato bread made with mashed potatoes and flour, traditionally cooked on a griddle or skillet.

Can I use leftover mashed potatoes?

Yes, as long as they do not contain added milk or butter, which can affect the texture of the dough.

Do I need baking powder?

Baking powder helps create a lighter texture, but you can omit it for a denser, more traditional version.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can cook the farls and store them in the refrigerator or freezer for later use.

What is the best way to serve potato farls?

They are best served warm with butter, jam, or alongside eggs, bacon, and sausage for a full Irish breakfast.

Can I make them without flour?

A small amount of flour is necessary for structure, but you can try a gluten-free alternative if needed.

Can I cook potato farls in butter or oil?

Traditionally, they are cooked on a dry skillet, but a small amount of butter can be used for a richer taste.

How thick should the dough be?

Roll the dough out to about 1/2 inch thick for the best texture.

What if my dough is too sticky?

Add a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time, until it is easier to handle.

Are potato farls the same as boxty?

No, boxty is a different type of Irish potato bread that includes grated raw potatoes, while farls use mashed potatoes.

Conclusion

Traditional Irish potato farls are an easy, delicious, and authentic way to enjoy a taste of Ireland. With their soft texture and crisp edges, these simple griddle breads are perfect for breakfast or as a comforting side dish. Whether served with butter, jam, or as part of a full Irish breakfast, these farls are sure to become a household favorite. Try making a batch today and experience the warmth of traditional Irish cooking.