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Golden-browned potato farls served on a breakfast plate with butter, eggs, and grilled tomatoes.

Traditional Irish Potato Farls Recipe – Easy Griddle Cakes for a Classic Irish Breakfast

This Traditional Irish Potato Farls Recipe brings the warmth of a classic Irish breakfast to your kitchen. Made with mashed potatoes, flour, butter, and a pinch of salt, these rustic griddle cakes are pan-fried until golden and crisp on the outside, soft and tender inside. Perfect alongside eggs, bacon, or simply with butter and jam, potato farls are a beloved staple in Irish cuisine. Easy to make and deeply satisfying, they’re ideal for weekend brunch or cozy mornings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Brunch Platter, Irish Breakfast, Savory Snack, Side Dish
Cuisine Irish (Northern Ireland)
Servings 4 farls (serves 2–3)
Calories 180 kcal

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Potato masher or fork
  • Rolling Pin
  • Knife or dough cutter
  • Cast iron or nonstick skillet
  • Spatula

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups mashed potatoes (cooled; starchy like Russet or Maris Piper)
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
  • 2 tablespoons butter (softened; plus more for frying)
  • ½ teaspoon salt

Optional:

  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons chopped scallions
  • 2 tablespoons grated cheddar or herbs (parsley, thyme)

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the Potatoes If using fresh potatoes, peel, boil until tender, and mash. Let cool completely.
  • Make the Dough In a bowl, combine mashed potatoes, flour, butter, salt, and any optional add-ins. Mix gently until a soft dough forms. Avoid overmixing.
  • Shape the Farls Lightly flour a surface. Roll dough into a ½-inch thick circle. Cut into 4 quarters (farls).
  • Pan-Fry Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a knob of butter or a drizzle of oil. Fry farls for 3–5 minutes per side until golden and crisp.
  • Serve Warm Enjoy with eggs, bacon, or smoked salmon. Garnish with herbs or sour cream if desired.

Notes

  • Texture Tip: Always use cooled mashed potatoes to avoid sticky dough.
  • Make-Ahead: Store cooked farls in the fridge for 3 days or freeze uncooked dough for 1 month.
  • Healthier Swap: Use olive oil for frying and whole wheat flour for added fiber.
  • Vegan Option: Substitute butter with plant-based alternatives.
  • Baking Option: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
 
Keyword brunch, Comfort Food, Easy Recipe, griddle bread, Irish breakfast, Mashed Potatoes, potato farls, traditional Irish food