These traditional Irish Potato Cakes, also known as Potato Farls, are soft, buttery, and made with simple ingredients. Perfect for breakfast or as a comforting side dish, they’re crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples for an easy and budget-friendly dish.
- Versatile: Great for breakfast, a side dish, or a snack.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 20 minutes.
- Crispy and Fluffy: Golden brown exterior with a soft, pillowy center.
Ingredients
- 2 cups mashed potatoes (cooled)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder (optional, for extra fluffiness)
- 1-2 tablespoons milk (if needed)
- Butter or oil for frying
Directions
- In a mixing bowl, combine mashed potatoes, flour, melted butter, salt, black pepper, and baking powder (if using). Mix until a soft dough forms. If the dough is too dry, add a little milk.
- Transfer the dough to a floured surface and roll it out to about 1/4-inch thickness.
- Cut into quarters or use a round cutter to shape them into cakes.
- Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat and add a little butter or oil.
- Cook the potato cakes for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from the pan and serve warm with butter or alongside your favorite meal.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4 servings
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Calories: 180 kcal per serving
Variations
- Cheesy Potato Cakes: Add shredded cheddar or Parmesan for extra flavor.
- Herbed Version: Mix in fresh chives, parsley, or green onions.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour.
- Spiced Up: Add a pinch of garlic powder or paprika for extra seasoning.
- Sweet Potato Farls: Substitute mashed sweet potatoes for a slightly sweeter variation.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze cooked potato cakes in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes per side or reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated through.
FAQs
Can I use leftover mashed potatoes?
Yes! This recipe is a great way to repurpose leftover mashed potatoes.
What’s the difference between potato farls and potato pancakes?
Potato farls are thicker and more bread-like, while potato pancakes are thinner and crispier.
Can I bake these instead of frying?
Yes, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
What should I serve with potato cakes?
They pair well with eggs, bacon, smoked salmon, or a dollop of sour cream.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, refrigerate the dough for up to 24 hours before rolling and cooking.
How do I keep my potato cakes from being too dry?
Ensure your mashed potatoes are moist and add a little milk if the dough seems dry.
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, but the texture will be slightly denser.
Do I need to use baking powder?
No, it’s optional, but it helps make the cakes lighter.
Can I add onions to the dough?
Yes, finely chopped or sautéed onions add great flavor.
Can I make mini potato cakes?
Yes! Just cut them into smaller portions and reduce the cooking time slightly.
Conclusion
Irish Potato Cakes (Potato Farls) are a delicious, easy-to-make dish perfect for breakfast or as a side. Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, these traditional cakes bring comfort and flavor to any meal. Give them a try and enjoy their warm, buttery goodness!
Print
Irish Potato Cakes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Traditional Irish Potato Cakes, or Potato Farls, are soft, buttery, and crispy outside with a fluffy inside. Perfect for breakfast or a dish.
Ingredients
- 2 cups mashed potatoes (cooled)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon baking powder (optional, for extra fluffiness)
- 1–2 tablespoons milk (if needed)
- Butter or oil for frying
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine mashed potatoes, flour, melted butter, salt, black pepper, and baking powder (if using). Mix until a soft dough forms. If the dough is too dry, add a little milk.
- Transfer the dough to a floured surface and roll it out to about ¼-inch thickness.
- Cut into quarters or use a round cutter to shape them into cakes.
- Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat and add a little butter or oil.
- Cook the potato cakes for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from the pan and serve warm with butter or alongside your favorite meal.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add chopped chives or shredded cheese to the dough.
- Best served with butter, sour cream, or alongside a traditional Irish breakfast.
- Leftovers can be reheated in a pan or toaster.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Pan-Fried
- Cuisine: Irish
