Name: Irish Potato Farls Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Irish
Ingredients: 2 cups (about 1 pound) mashed potatoes (cooled); 1 cup all-purpose flour (plus more for dusting); 1/4 teaspoon salt; 2 tablespoons butter (melted)

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Introduction

Irish Potato Farls are a comforting and simple traditional Irish bread made from leftover mashed potatoes. Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, these farls make a perfect accompaniment to breakfast or any meal. Their humble ingredients and easy preparation make them a beloved staple in Irish kitchens.

A round black pan holds a flatbread cut into five triangular pieces, each with a crispy, golden-brown toasted top sprinkled lightly with green herbs. The bread's sides are pale and soft, contrasting with the well-browned, textured surface. Next to the bread pieces, there is a small dollop of white creamy butter or sauce melting slightly in the pan. A blue and white textured cloth is partially visible under the pan, with a white marbled texture as the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 cups (about 1 pound) mashed potatoes, cooled
1 cup all-purpose flour (plus more for dusting)
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons butter, melted

Instructions

Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, flour, salt, and melted butter. Mix until a dough forms.
Step 2: Lightly flour a work surface and turn the dough out. Gently knead until smooth but not overworked.
Step 3: Roll the dough into a circle about 1/4 inch thick.
Step 4: Cut the circle into four equal wedges (farls).
Step 5: Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat—no oil needed.
Step 6: Cook each farl for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and slightly crisp on the outside.
Step 7: Serve warm with butter, eggs, or your favorite breakfast dishes.

Tips & Variations

Use cold mashed potatoes to help the dough hold together better and prevent stickiness.
For extra flavor, add a pinch of chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives to the dough.
Substitute some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier taste.
Serve farls topped with jam or honey for a sweet twist.

Storage

Store leftover farls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 1 month. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or in a toaster to restore crispness.

How to Serve

Five triangular pieces of golden-brown fried flatbread are arranged in a black pan, with each piece showing a crispy, unevenly browned texture on the surface and a few green herb specks sprinkled on top. One piece is slightly separated from the rest, revealing the soft inside, and next to it is a small dollop of creamy white butter partly melted, blending into the pan’s surface. The pan sits on a white marbled textured surface with a blue cloth underneath. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use leftover mashed potatoes straight from the fridge?

Yes, cold leftover mashed potatoes work best for this recipe, as they make the dough easier to handle and less sticky.

Do I need to add oil or butter while cooking the farls?

No, the farls cook well in a dry non-stick skillet or griddle without added fat, as the melted butter in the dough provides enough richness.