Boxty is a traditional Irish potato pancake, known for its crispy golden crust and soft, fluffy center. Made with a combination of grated raw potatoes and mashed potatoes, this dish is a beloved staple in Irish cuisine, perfect for St. Patrick’s Day, breakfast, or a comforting side dish!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy and Golden – The perfect balance of crunchy edges and soft interiors.
- Simple and Budget-Friendly – Uses basic ingredients found in most kitchens.
- Authentic Irish Dish – A classic St. Patrick’s Day favorite with deep Irish roots.
- Versatile – Serve with sour cream, smoked salmon, eggs, or bacon.
- Quick and Easy – Ready in just 25 minutes!
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 2 cups grated raw potatoes
- 1 cup mashed potatoes
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 egg, beaten
- ½ cup milk
- 2 tablespoons butter (for frying)
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions (for garnish)
- Sour cream (for serving)
Directions
Prepare the Batter:
- In a large bowl, mix grated raw potatoes with mashed potatoes.
- Stir in flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper.
Add Wet Ingredients:
- Mix in the beaten egg and milk until combined into a thick batter.
Cook the Pancakes:
- Heat butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Drop ¼ cup of batter into the pan and flatten slightly.
- Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Garnish with chopped green onions and serve warm with sour cream.
Servings and Timing
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories: 220 kcal per serving
Variations
- Cheesy Boxty – Add ½ cup shredded cheddar to the batter for extra richness.
- Herb-Infused Boxty – Mix in fresh parsley or chives for added flavor.
- Bacon and Onion Boxty – Stir in crispy bacon bits and caramelized onions.
- Spicy Boxty – Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a kick.
- Gluten-Free Option – Substitute gluten-free flour for an alternative.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze cooked pancakes for up to 2 months. Thaw before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side to restore crispiness.
FAQs
Can I use just raw potatoes?
Traditional boxty combines grated raw and mashed potatoes, but you can use all raw potatoes for a crispier version.
What’s the best potato for boxty?
Use starchy potatoes like Russet or Yukon Gold for the best texture.
Can I bake instead of fry?
Yes! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes, flipping halfway, for a healthier version.
What can I serve with boxty?
Serve with sour cream, smoked salmon, eggs, bacon, or even corned beef.
Can I make the batter ahead of time?
Yes! Store the batter in the fridge for up to 24 hours, but stir well before using.
Why is my boxty too soft?
Make sure to drain excess moisture from the grated potatoes to keep the batter from being too wet.
Can I make mini boxty pancakes?
Absolutely! Just use 1 tablespoon of batter per pancake for bite-sized versions.
Do I need to peel the potatoes?
It’s optional! Leaving the peel on adds texture and nutrients.
Is this an authentic Irish recipe?
Yes! Boxty is a traditional Irish dish with roots dating back to the 18th century.
Can I air-fry these?
Yes! Air-fry at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway.
Conclusion
These Irish Potato Pancakes (Boxty) are a crispy, golden, and delicious way to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day or enjoy a comforting Irish dish any time of year. With their fluffy yet crunchy texture, they’re easy to make, versatile, and perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner! Serve warm with sour cream or your favorite toppings, and enjoy a taste of Irish tradition.
