Irish Potato Bread is a beloved traditional dish made with mashed potatoes, flour, butter, and a pinch of salt. Soft and fluffy on the inside with a golden, crispy exterior, this bread is a staple in Irish households. Whether served as part of an Ulster Fry, alongside soups and stews, or simply with butter and jam, potato bread is a comforting and versatile addition to any meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to make: Only a handful of ingredients needed.
- Great for leftovers: Perfect for using up extra mashed potatoes.
- Soft and fluffy texture: Thanks to the potatoes.
- Versatile: Works for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
- Traditional Irish comfort food: A classic, time-honored recipe.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Mashed potatoes (cooled)
- All-purpose flour
- Butter (melted)
- Salt
- Baking powder
- Milk (if needed)
- Butter or oil (for frying)
Directions
- Prepare the dough
- In a bowl, mix mashed potatoes, flour, baking powder, salt, and melted butter until combined.
- If the dough is too dry, add a splash of milk to bring it together.
- Shape the bread
- Lightly flour a surface and roll out the dough into a ½-inch thick circle.
- Cut into four triangles (farls) or shape into small rounds.
- Cook the bread
- Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat with a little butter or oil.
- Cook each piece for 3–4 minutes per side, until golden brown.
- Serve warm with butter, jam, or as part of a traditional Irish breakfast.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4 pieces
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 10 minutes
- Total time: 20 minutes
Variations
- Cheesy potato bread: Add shredded cheddar cheese.
- Garlic and herb: Mix in garlic powder, chives, or rosemary.
- Whole wheat: Use half whole wheat flour for a heartier texture.
- Sweet version: Add a sprinkle of cinnamon and sugar for a unique twist.
- Gluten-free: Swap regular flour for a gluten-free blend.
Storage/Reheating
- Store: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for 1–2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
- Freeze: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Warm in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
FAQs
What is the difference between potato bread and potato farls?
Potato farls are typically thinner and pan-fried, while potato bread can be thicker and sometimes baked.
Can I use instant mashed potatoes?
Yes, but ensure they are thick and not too watery for the right texture.
Can I bake this instead of frying?
Yes! Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 15–20 minutes until golden.
How can I make the bread fluffier?
Adding a pinch of baking powder helps create a lighter texture.
What should I serve with potato bread?
Enjoy with butter, jam, eggs, bacon, or alongside soups and stews.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes! Use dairy-free butter and substitute almond or oat milk.
Why is my potato bread too dense?
Too much flour can make it heavy—add just enough to bring the dough together.
What type of potatoes work best?
Starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds yield the best texture.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before cooking.
How do I keep it from sticking to the pan?
Use a well-greased non-stick pan or a cast-iron skillet for best results.
Conclusion
Irish Potato Bread is a simple yet delicious recipe that brings a taste of Ireland to your kitchen. Whether pan-fried or baked, it pairs beautifully with both sweet and savory toppings. Try different variations and enjoy this traditional dish any time of day!
Print
Irish Potato Bread
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf (about 10 slices) 1x
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Irish
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Irish Potato Bread is a soft, slightly dense bread made with mashed potatoes, giving it a unique texture and mild, buttery flavor. It’s perfect for breakfast with butter and jam or served alongside soups and stews.
Ingredients
For the Bread:
- 2 cups mashed potatoes (cooled, no added milk or butter)
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
- 2 1/4 tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 3/4 cup warm milk (about 110°F)
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
Activate the Yeast:
- In a small bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
2. Make the Dough:
- In a large bowl, mix mashed potatoes, flour, and salt.
- Add the yeast mixture and melted butter. Stir until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 8-10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
3. First Rise:
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
4. Shape & Second Rise:
- Punch down the dough and shape it into a round or oval loaf.
- Place on a greased baking sheet or in a loaf pan. Cover and let rise for 30 minutes.
5. Bake:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
- Let cool before slicing.
6. Serve & Enjoy!
- Spread with butter, jam, or honey for a delicious treat.
- Serve alongside soups, stews, or an Irish breakfast.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add 1 tsp garlic powder or fresh herbs like rosemary.
- Prefer a rustic crust? Brush the dough with a little milk before baking.
- Leftovers? Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for later.
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