Few things capture the heart of Irish cooking quite like Potato Farls—crispy on the outside, soft and pillowy on the inside, and infused with the comforting flavor of freshly mashed potatoes. Traditionally cooked on a griddle, these golden rounds (or triangles) are a staple of the classic Ulster Fry, often served alongside eggs, sausage, and bacon.
The word farl comes from the old Scottish word fardel, meaning “a fourth part,” as the dough was traditionally shaped into a round and cut into four pieces before cooking. Irish Potato Farls are more than just a side dish—they’re a warm nod to Ireland’s culinary roots and a beautiful example of simple ingredients coming together to create something truly special.
Whether you’re celebrating St. Patrick’s Day, craving a hearty breakfast, or looking for a way to use up leftover mashed potatoes, this recipe brings the taste of Ireland to your table in under 30 minutes.
Recipe Overview
Irish Potato Farls are a classic griddled bread made primarily from mashed potatoes, flour, and butter. Lightly seasoned and pan-fried to golden perfection, they can be enjoyed at any time of day—warm with butter, alongside breakfast, or even with soup or stew. The result? A tender, savory bread that’s both rustic and comforting.
Ingredients & Instructions
Here’s everything you need to make a batch of fluffy, golden Potato Farls that melt in your mouth.
Ingredients
- 1 pound (500g) potatoes, peeled and quartered
- 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives (optional)
- Additional butter or oil, for frying
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Boil and Mash the Potatoes
Place your peeled and quartered potatoes into a pot of cold, salted water. Bring them to a boil and cook until tender—usually about 15 minutes, depending on the size of your pieces.
Drain thoroughly and let them cool slightly to remove excess moisture.
Mash the potatoes until completely smooth, with no lumps. This ensures a soft, even texture in your farls.
2. Combine the Ingredients
Add the melted butter, salt, baking powder, black pepper, and chopped chives (if using) to the mashed potatoes. Stir to combine evenly.
Gradually mix in the flour, a little at a time, until a soft dough forms. It should be pliable but not sticky. If it’s too sticky, sprinkle in a bit more flour until it feels right.
Pro Tip: Avoid overworking the dough—this keeps your farls light and tender.
3. Shape the Dough
Dust your work surface lightly with flour. Roll out the dough to about ½ inch (1.25 cm) thick.
For traditional triangular farls, roll the dough into a circle and cut it into four equal quarters. Alternatively, use a biscuit cutter or glass to make round farls.
4. Cook Until Golden
Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add a little butter or oil and let it melt.
Place the farls on the hot surface and cook for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Adjust the heat as needed so they don’t burn.
Pro Tip: Cook in batches so you don’t overcrowd the pan—this helps them brown evenly.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Serve your Potato Farls warm, straight from the pan, with a pat of butter melting on top.
They’re wonderful on their own or as part of a traditional Irish breakfast—paired with eggs, sausage, bacon, and baked beans. You can also serve them as a side for soups, stews, or even smoked salmon for a modern twist.
Cooking Tips & Variations
There are endless ways to make Irish Potato Farls your own. Here are a few simple ideas:
1. Use Leftover Mashed Potatoes
This recipe works perfectly with leftovers—just skip the boiling step and go straight to mixing in flour and seasonings.
2. Add Cheese for a Savory Touch
Mix in ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese or Parmesan for a rich, cheesy variation.
3. Make It Gluten-Free
Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend—the result is still wonderfully soft.
4. Try Sweet Variations
For a breakfast twist, add a pinch of nutmeg and a teaspoon of sugar to the dough, then serve with jam or honey.
5. Add Herbs
Chopped parsley, thyme, or green onions give a fragrant, flavorful kick that pairs beautifully with the buttery potato base.
Serving & Storage Suggestions
Serving Ideas
- Enjoy with a full Irish breakfast—eggs, bacon, sausage, and black pudding.
- Pair with soups like leek and potato or creamy chowder.
- Serve with smoked salmon and sour cream for a brunch-worthy plate.
- Simply top with butter and sea salt for a rustic snack.
Storage
- Refrigerate: Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Toast or pan-fry again for 1–2 minutes per side to bring back the crispness.
- Freeze: Stack between parchment paper and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Reheat straight from frozen on a hot skillet.
Irish Potato Farls are proof that simple ingredients can create something truly comforting. With their golden crust, fluffy interior, and rich buttery flavor, they’re a timeless Irish favorite that fits any occasion—from a cozy breakfast to a hearty dinner side.
Making them from scratch is easier than you’d think, and once you try, they’re bound to become part of your regular rotation. Whether you’re reconnecting with your Irish roots or just love a good homemade bread, these farls will fill your kitchen with warmth and tradition.
So grab those potatoes, dust your counter with a little flour, and enjoy a slice of Ireland today!
FAQs
1. What kind of potatoes are best for farls?
Floury potatoes like Russet or Yukon Gold work best—they mash smoothly and hold their texture beautifully.
2. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough a few hours ahead and keep it covered in the fridge until ready to cook.
3. Why are they called “farls”?
The word comes from fardel, meaning “a fourth part,” since the dough was traditionally cut into quarters before cooking.
4. Can I bake potato farls instead of frying them?
Yes! Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 15–20 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway through.
5. What can I serve with Irish Potato Farls?
They’re versatile—serve them with breakfast, alongside soups, or simply topped with butter and a sprinkle of salt.
Irish Potato Farls are soft, buttery griddled breads made from mashed potatoes. Easy, authentic, and perfect for breakfast or as a side to any meal.
