Authentic Irish Potato Farls : A Hearty Taste of Irish Tradition

If you’re craving a taste of true Irish comfort food, Authentic Irish Potato Farls are the answer. Golden, pan-fried, and satisfyingly starchy, these humble flatbreads made with mashed potatoes have been a staple of Irish cuisine for generations. They’re simple, filling, and perfect for soaking up runny egg yolks or accompanying a traditional Irish breakfast. Whether you’re new to Irish recipes or simply looking for a warm and nostalgic breakfast idea, this farls recipe is a must-try.

Let’s dive into the origins of Irish potato farls, how to make them from scratch, and why they belong in every hearty breakfast spread.

Save

What Are Irish Potato Farls?

The word “farl” comes from the Gaelic “fardel,” meaning a quarter or a fourth part. That’s because Irish potato farls are traditionally shaped into a round and then cut into four quarters. These flat, skillet-fried potato breads originated in Northern Ireland, particularly around Ulster, and have remained popular across the country thanks to their simplicity and flavor.

They’re made using mashed Irish potatoes, flour, butter, and salt — that’s it. The mixture is shaped into a disc, sliced into quarters, and fried until golden brown on both sides. The result? A warm, pillowy flatbread with crispy edges that pairs perfectly with other breakfast staples or can be enjoyed on its own.

---

Why This Farls Recipe Is a Must-Try

Whether you’re exploring Irish recipes traditional or simply want to make use of leftover mashed potatoes, Irish potato farls are:

• Budget-friendly: Just a handful of pantry staples
• Quick to prepare: No yeast, no resting time
• Versatile: Perfect for breakfast, lunch, or a savory snack
• Comforting: Hearty and satisfying, especially on cold mornings
• Authentic: A true slice of Irish cooking history

Best of all, they’re ideal for a full Irish breakfast, standing alongside bacon, eggs, beans, and grilled tomatoes.

Ingredients for Authentic Irish Potato Farls

To make a classic farls recipe, you’ll need only five simple ingredients:

• 2 cups (400g) mashed potatoes (preferably cold or leftover)
• ½ cup (60g) all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• ½ teaspoon salt
• Butter or oil, for frying

Tips:

• Use floury potatoes like Russet or Maris Piper for best texture
• Avoid mashed potatoes that are too wet or creamy (no milk or cream)
• Cold mashed potatoes are easier to work with when forming the dough

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Before getting started, gather these basic kitchen tools:

• Large mixing bowl
• Rolling pin
• Frying pan or griddle
• Spatula
• Knife or dough cutter
• Measuring cups and spoons

That’s all you need for one of the simplest Irish breakfast recipes you’ll ever try.

How to Make Traditional Irish Potato Farls (Step-by-Step)

Here’s a step-by-step guide to preparing authentic Irish potato farls, just like they’ve been made in Irish kitchens for generations:

1. Make the Dough

Place your cold mashed potatoes in a large bowl. Add the flour, softened butter, and salt. Mix with a fork or your hands until a soft, pliable dough forms. If it’s too sticky, add a little more flour.

2. Shape the Dough

Dust your work surface with flour. Roll the dough out gently into a circle about ½ inch (1 cm) thick and 8 inches in diameter.

3. Cut the Farls

Using a knife or dough scraper, cut the circle into four equal wedges — this is the traditional “farl” shape.

4. Cook the Farls

Heat a frying pan or griddle over medium heat and add a bit of butter or oil. Place the farls in the pan and cook for 3–4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crisp.

5. Serve Warm

Remove from the pan and serve immediately with eggs, sausage, or on their own with butter and jam.

This farls recipe is perfect for breakfast or even as a cozy side dish for lunch or dinner.

Save

Serving Suggestions for a Traditional Irish Breakfast

Irish potato farls are most famously served as part of a full Irish breakfast, which usually includes:

• Fried or poached eggs
• Grilled tomatoes
• Sausages
• Baked beans
• Mushrooms
• Black or white pudding
• Toast or soda bread

You can also serve them with soups and stews, or make a modern brunch plate by pairing farls with avocado, smoked salmon, or roasted vegetables. They’re also a great companion to dishes like creamy mushroom and spinach stuffed chicken or roasted stuffed bell peppers.

Variations and Modern Twists on Irish Potato Farls

While this is a traditional recipe, you can easily adapt it to suit different diets or flavor preferences:

• Gluten-free: Use a gluten-free flour blend
• Vegan: Swap butter for vegan margarine
• Herb-infused: Add chopped chives, thyme, or parsley to the dough
• Cheesy: Mix in grated cheddar or parmesan
• Stuffed: Fold in cooked cabbage or kale for an Irish-style “colcannon farl”

These spins keep the dish fresh and adaptable without losing its soul.

Tips for Perfect Potato Farls Every Time

To get the best results when cooking Irish potato farls, keep these tips in mind:

• Use the right potatoes: Starchy potatoes give the best texture
• Don’t overwork the dough: Mix just until combined
• Avoid high heat: Cook over medium to prevent burning the outside before the inside is heated through
• Use a nonstick pan or griddle: This ensures easy flipping and even browning
• Serve immediately: They taste best hot off the pan

Avoid using mashed potatoes with too much added liquid — it’ll make the dough too sticky.

Irish Recipes Authentic and Comforting

If you’re diving into Irish cooking, farls are just the beginning. Here are more comforting recipes with Irish roots or influence:

• Creamy Wild Rice and Mushroom Soup
• Garlic Butter Corn with Melty Cheese
• Healthy Veggie Egg Scramble

These recipes capture the cozy, hearty spirit that defines Irish cuisine.

The Role of Farls in Irish Cuisine

Farls represent more than just a tasty breakfast side — they symbolize Irish heritage, simplicity, and the resourceful nature of traditional Irish recipes. In the past, they were a way to use up leftover mashed potatoes and stretch meals without spending extra money.

Today, they remain a beloved component of the traditional Irish breakfast and are often served at family gatherings, holidays, or even as a nostalgic treat.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

You can store cooked farls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat:

• Pan-fry in a bit of butter or oil until heated through
• Microwave for 20–30 seconds, though the texture may soften
• Oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–10 minutes to restore crispness

These options make farls excellent for quick, satisfying leftovers.

Make-Ahead Tips for Busy Mornings

Want to enjoy authentic Irish potato farls on a weekday morning? Try these make-ahead strategies:

• Prep and refrigerate the dough the night before
• Cook a batch ahead, then refrigerate or freeze cooked farls
• Reheat in a skillet or toaster oven for a crispy, quick breakfast

They’re great for meal prepping alongside other Irish-style breakfasts like pumpkin baked oatmeal or protein-packed egg bakes.

Save

Irish Breakfast Inspiration

A full Irish breakfast featuring farls is more than just food — it’s an experience. Build your own plate with:

• Freshly brewed tea
• Crisp bacon or plant-based alternatives
• Eggs your way
• Pan-fried farls and toast
• Tomatoes and mushrooms grilled with herbs
• Optional beans or black pudding (if desired)

It’s the ultimate way to start the day, full of warmth, texture, and tradition.

Final Thoughts

There’s something deeply comforting about a hot skillet of Authentic Irish Potato Farls. Whether you’re revisiting old family recipes or trying Irish cuisine for the first time, farls are a simple yet powerful way to connect with culinary heritage.

If you loved this recipe, please share it with friends, bookmark it for later, and subscribe to Lyndy’s Kitchen for more global-inspired recipes that are wholesome, nostalgic, and full of heart.

Print