Irish Potato Bread Recipe – Traditional Soft & Easy Potato Farls

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Introduction

After more than a decade working in professional kitchens and studying traditional cuisines, I have learned that some of the most meaningful recipes come from necessity rather than luxury. Irish Potato Bread is a perfect example. Created as a way to use leftover mashed potatoes, it became a beloved staple across Ireland.

This bread is humble, hearty, and incredibly satisfying. It does not rely on yeast or long rising times. Instead, it comes together quickly and delivers a soft, tender bite that pairs beautifully with butter, eggs, or soups. Irish Potato Bread proves that simple ingredients, treated with respect, can create something truly special.

Essential Ingredients

Irish Potato Bread is made from just a few basic ingredients, but each one plays an important role. Mashed potatoes provide moisture and structure while giving the bread its signature softness. All-purpose flour binds the dough and creates a lightly crisp surface when cooked.

Butter adds richness and flavor, while salt enhances the potatoes and balances the dough. That is all you need. No yeast, no eggs, and no complicated steps.

Ingredients

• 2 cups mashed potatoes, cooled
• 2 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon salt

Alternative Ingredients

If you want a slightly richer dough, you can add a tablespoon of milk or cream. Whole wheat flour can replace part of the all-purpose flour, though it will create a denser texture. Dairy-free butter works well for a plant-based version.

Recipe Information

Detail	Value
Prep Time	15 minutes
Cook Time	15 minutes
Total Time	30 minutes
Servings	4 servings
Yield	8 potato farls

Key Features

Irish Potato Bread is quick to prepare and requires no yeast or oven. It is cooked on a skillet or griddle and uses simple pantry ingredients. The bread is soft, filling, and ideal for breakfast or as a side dish.

Step-by-Step Directions

Preparing the Dough

Place the cooled mashed potatoes in a large bowl. Add melted butter and salt, mixing until smooth. Gradually add the flour, mixing gently until a soft dough forms. Do not overwork the dough.

Shaping

Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead very gently just until smooth. Roll into a circle about ½ inch thick and cut into quarters.

Cooking

Heat a dry skillet or griddle over medium heat. Cook each piece for about 3 to 4 minutes per side until golden brown and lightly crisp on the outside. The inside should remain soft and tender.

Serving

Serve warm with butter, jam, or alongside eggs and breakfast meats.

Pro Tips

Always use cooled mashed potatoes to avoid a sticky dough. Do not over-knead, as this will make the bread tough. Cook on medium heat to ensure the bread cooks through without burning.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Irish Potato Bread is comforting, easy, and deeply satisfying. It comes together quickly and uses ingredients you likely already have. This bread is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a simple side.

What Makes This Recipe Unique

Unlike traditional bread, Irish Potato Bread relies on potatoes instead of yeast for structure and softness. It is cooked on a griddle rather than baked, giving it a distinctive texture and flavor rooted in Irish tradition.

Conclusion

Irish Potato Bread is a timeless recipe that reflects the heart of traditional Irish cooking. With over ten years of professional experience, I can say this is one of the simplest yet most rewarding breads you can make at home. It is warm, comforting, and proof that great food does not need to be complicated.