Go Back
Homemade authentic Irish potato farls on a rustic wooden table.

Authentic Irish Potato Farls

Crispy on the outside and tender inside, these potato cakes are perfect for breakfast or brunch, especially with leftover mashed potatoes.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 pieces
Course: Breakfast, Brunch
Cuisine: Irish
Calories: 150

Ingredients
  

Potatoes & Binder
  • 2 cups mashed potatoes (leftover or freshly made)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
Dry Ingredients
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • as needed additional flour for dusting
For Frying & Serving
  • 1–2 tablespoons butter or oil for frying
  • as desired butter, jam, or eggs for serving (optional)

Method
 

Preparation
  1. If using leftover mashed potatoes, bring them to room temperature for easier mixing.
  2. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
  3. Add mashed potatoes and softened butter into the dry mix. Stir until a soft dough forms; add up to 2 tbsp extra flour if the dough is too sticky.
  4. Lightly flour your work surface, divide dough in half, and shape each half into a flat round about 1/2-inch thick.
Cooking
  1. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add 1 tbsp butter or oil.
  2. Fry each farl for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and crisp at the edges.
  3. Transfer to a plate and let rest for 1–2 minutes, then cut into quarters.
Serving Suggestions
  1. Serve hot with butter, jam, or alongside eggs.
  2. For breakfast, serve alongside fried eggs and bacon.
  3. For brunch, add a dollop of butter and your favorite jam.
  4. For a snack, top with smoked salmon, crème fraîche, and chives.

Notes

Use cooled mashed potatoes to ensure the dough isn’t too sticky. Don’t overcrowd the pan; give each farl space to crisp evenly.