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Authentic & Easy Irish Potato Farls Recipe

A stack of four golden-brown, pan-fried irish potato farls resting on a white plate.

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Make traditional Irish Potato Farls using leftover mashed potatoes. These pan-fried potato cakes are crispy outside and soft inside, perfect for a classic Irish breakfast or a simple side dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups leftover mashed potatoes (plain, no milk or cream added if possible)
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • Extra flour for dusting

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes and melted butter. Mix until just combined.
  2. Add the salt and half of the flour to the potato mixture. Begin mixing with a fork or your hands.
  3. Gradually add the remaining flour until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms. Do not overmix.
  4. Lightly flour a clean work surface. Turn the dough out onto the surface.
  5. Gently knead the dough a few times until it comes together into a smooth ball.
  6. Pat the dough into a circle about 1/2 inch thick.
  7. Use a knife or bench scraper to cut the circle into four equal wedges (farls).
  8. Heat a dry griddle or heavy-bottomed skillet over medium heat. You do not need oil or butter for cooking the farls.
  9. Place the farls onto the hot griddle. Cook for 4 to 6 minutes per side, until they are golden brown and slightly crisp.
  10. Remove from the griddle and serve immediately with butter, jam, or as part of your Irish breakfast.

Notes

  • Using cold, day-old mashed potatoes works best for achieving the correct texture.
  • If your dough is too wet, add flour one tablespoon at a time until it is manageable.
  • For a richer flavor, you can substitute some of the flour with fine semolina flour.
  • Serve these crispy potato cakes warm for the best experience.

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