Go Back
Olivia

Authentic Irish Potato Farls Recipe

These authentic Irish potato farls are golden, crispy wedges made from mashed potatoes and flour—pan-fried to perfection and perfect for a traditional Irish breakfast or hearty brunch. Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is simple, satisfying, and steeped in comfort.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Breakfast
Calories: 200
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups mashed potatoes preferably cold leftovers
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour plus extra for dusting
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon butter for frying

Method
 

  1. Prep the Dough: Mix mashed potatoes, flour, and salt in a bowl until a soft dough forms.
  2. Shape into a Disk: Turn dough onto a floured surface and shape it into a flat, round disk, about 1/2-inch thick.
  3. Cut into Farls: Slice the disk into quarters (like a pizza).
  4. Heat the Pan: Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat.
  5. Fry the Farls: Cook each wedge for 3–4 minutes per side, until golden and crisp.
  6. Serve Hot: Enjoy immediately while warm with your favorite breakfast sides.

Notes

Authentic Irish Potato Farls Recipe – Helpful Tips

Cooking Tips & Techniques
Use freshly mashed potatoes—ideally warm and well-seasoned with butter and a pinch of salt.
For the best texture, avoid using overly wet mashed potatoes. If needed, drain excess moisture or use slightly drier mash.
Mix in just enough flour to create a soft, non-sticky dough—don’t overwork it or the farls may turn tough.
Roll the dough into a round about ½ inch thick, then cut into quarters (“farls” means “four parts” in Gaelic!).
Cook on a dry cast iron skillet or griddle over medium heat—no oil needed. Each side should take 3–5 minutes and be golden and crisp.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm with a generous pat of salted Irish butter or a dollop of sour cream.
Great alongside a traditional Irish breakfast with eggs, sausage, bacon, and baked beans.
Pair with smoked salmon and chives for a more elegant twist.
Top with fried eggs or use as a base for breakfast sandwiches.
Delicious with tea and jam for a simple rustic snack.
Make-Ahead & Storage
Make-Ahead: Prepare mashed potatoes a day in advance—just bring them to room temperature before mixing.
Refrigerator: Store cooked farls in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Freeze cooled farls between parchment sheets for up to 1 month. Reheat straight from frozen.
Reheat: Warm on a dry skillet over low heat until hot and slightly crisped, or use a toaster oven.
Tasty Variations to Try
Cheese & Herb: Add shredded Irish cheddar and fresh chives or parsley to the dough.
Garlic & Black Pepper: Mix in roasted garlic and cracked pepper for savory depth.
Sweet Farls: Add a bit of cinnamon and sugar to the mash and serve with fruit preserves.
Wholemeal Version: Use part whole wheat flour for a heartier, rustic texture.
Loaded Farls: Stir in chopped scallions, crumbled bacon, or cooked cabbage for a fuller bite.