Easy Potato Cakes (Mary Berrys Potato Farls)

Are you ready to indulge in the delightful world of potato farls? Get ready to savour the scrumptiousness of these baked potato cakes that are not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re looking for a tasty side dish or a satisfying breakfast item, potato farls have got you covered!

What are Potato Farls?

Let’s start by understanding what potato farls actually are. These delightful treats have their roots in traditional Irish cuisine, where they are often enjoyed as a staple. Imagine tender, golden-brown potato cakes, lightly crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. That’s potato farls for you, a perfect marriage of simplicity and deliciousness!

Benefits of Making Potato Farls:

Why bother making potato farls from scratch when you can buy them? Well, there are several advantages to taking the homemade route. Firstly, you have complete control over the ingredients and flavours, allowing you to customize the farls to your liking. Plus, making them at home is fun and more cost-effective in the long run. So roll up your sleeves and get ready to enjoy the perks of homemade potato farls!

Ingredients

For 12 servings, you will need the following ingredients. I had a lot of mashed potato left over, so I tripled the amount stated.

• 175 g Plain Flour
• 1 tbsp Baking Powder
• 60 g Butter
• 45 g Caster Sugar
• 125 g Cooled Mashed Potatoes
• 3 tbsp Milk
• Salt and Pepper (optional)

How to make baked potato farls from mashed potatoes

• Sift the 175 g Plain Flour and 1 tbsp Baking Powder into a bowl. Rub in the 60 g Butter until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs. Stir in the 45 g Caster Sugar and 125 g Cooled Mashed Potatoes. Add enough milk to bind to a soft but not sticky dough.
• Turn out the dough to a floured surface and knead lightly until blended. Roll out until 1cm thick and cut into either circles, rectangles or triangles.
• Place the farls on a buttered baking tray and bake for 12 – 15 minutes until risen and golden. Leave to cool on a wire rack.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving Irish potato farls, these versatile and delicious potato cakes can be easily paired with a variety of accompaniments to suit any mealtime event. Whether you’re enjoying them for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or dinner, consider the following serving suggestions that complement the texture and taste of potato farls:

• Breakfast/Brunch: Pair your potato farls with a full English breakfast featuring eggs, bacon, sausages, and grilled tomatoes. Or my favourite combo scrambled eggs and smoked salmon! The hearty combination of flavours and textures will satisfy your morning cravings.
• Lunch/Appetizer: Serve potato farls as a side dish with a light and refreshing salad, or use them as a base for appetizers topped with smoked salmon, cream cheese, and fresh dill.
• Dinner: For a more substantial meal, enjoy your potato farls alongside savoury dishes like grilled steak, roasted vegetables, or a hearty stew.

As for toppings, don’t forget the classics:

• Salt and Butter: A simple yet satisfying option, enhance the natural flavours of potato farls by spreading them with a generous layer of butter and a sprinkle of salt. This classic topping elevates the dish while still allowing the distinct taste and texture of the farls to shine through.
• Sour Cream and Chives: For a tangy twist, top your potato farls with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkling of freshly chopped chives. This combination adds a zesty and refreshing flavour that complements the farls perfectly.
• Avocado and Poached Egg: Turn your potato farls into a wholesome and nutritious meal by topping them with mashed avocado and a perfectly poached egg. The creaminess of the avocado and the rich, runny yolk creates a delightful contrast with the crispy potato farls.
• Caramelized Onions and Goat Cheese: For a sophisticated and savoury option, spread a layer of soft goat cheese onto the potato farls and top with caramelized onions. The onions’ sweetness balances the cheese’s tanginess, creating a harmonious and mouthwatering combination.
• Apple Chutney and Brie: If you’re looking for a sweet and savoury pairing, try topping your potato farls with a slice of creamy brie cheese and a spoonful of apple chutney. The mild, buttery flavour of the brie pairs beautifully with the sweet and tangy chutney for a unique and delicious experience.
• Pulled Pork and Coleslaw: Transform your potato farls into a satisfying and flavorful main course by topping them with tender, slow-cooked pulled pork and a generous helping of tangy coleslaw. The combination of succulent meat, crunchy slaw, and crispy farls creates a delightful texture and taste sensation.

How to store leftover potato cakes

To ensure your potato farls remain fresh and delicious, first allow them to cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, place the farls in an airtight container or wrap them individually in plastic wrap or aluminium foil to prevent them from drying out. Store the wrapped or contained potato farls in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

For longer storage, consider freezing the farls by placing them in a freezer-safe container or a resealable plastic bag with as much air removed as possible. Frozen potato farls can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy your stored leftovers, simply reheat them in a toaster, oven, or skillet until warmed through and crispy on the outside. By following these storage tips, you can savour the delightful taste and texture of your leftover Irish potato farls anytime!

FAQ’S