Soft, golden, and slightly crispy on the edges, traditional Irish potato bread—also known as potato farls—is a beloved staple of Irish breakfasts. Made with just a few simple ingredients, this rustic bread has a tender texture and a mild, comforting flavor. Whether served with butter or as part of a hearty full Irish breakfast, potato farls are a delicious way to enjoy the flavors of Ireland.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Ingredients – Uses basic pantry staples and leftover mashed potatoes.
- Quick to Make – Ready in just 20 minutes with minimal effort.
- Authentic Flavor – A true taste of Ireland, perfect for a traditional breakfast.
- Versatile – Enjoy it on its own, with butter, or alongside eggs and bacon.
- No Oven Required – Cooked on a stovetop, making it easy and convenient.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Mashed potatoes (warm, without added milk or butter)
- All-purpose flour
- Unsalted butter (melted)
- Salt
- Baking powder
Directions
- In a large bowl, mix the warm mashed potatoes with salt and melted butter.
- Gradually add the flour and baking powder, stirring until a soft dough forms.
- Lightly flour a clean surface and roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thick.
- Cut into four equal wedges (farls).
- Heat a dry skillet or griddle over medium heat. Cook the farls for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Serve warm with butter or as part of a traditional Irish breakfast.
Servings and Timing
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 4 farls
- Calories: 120 kcal per serving
Variations
- Cheesy Farls – Add shredded cheddar or Irish cheese to the dough for extra flavor.
- Herb-Infused – Mix in chopped fresh herbs like chives or parsley.
- Garlic Butter – Brush the warm farls with garlic butter for a richer taste.
- Gluten-Free Option – Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- Sweeter Version – Add a teaspoon of sugar and serve with jam for a sweet twist.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store cooled potato 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 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 1/4 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 bread (farls) is an easy, delicious, and authentic way to enjoy a taste of Ireland. With its soft texture and crisp edges, this simple bread is 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.
