Irish Potato Cakes with Scallions (Printable)

Crispy golden potato cakes flavored with fresh scallions. A traditional Irish boxty that's tender inside and perfect for breakfast.

# What You Need:

→ Potatoes

01 - 1.1 lbs floury potatoes such as Russet or Maris Piper, peeled and cut into chunks

→ Dairy

02 - 2 tbsp unsalted butter, plus extra for frying
03 - 1/4 cup whole milk

→ Dry Ingredients

04 - 2/3 cup all-purpose flour
05 - 1/2 tsp fine sea salt
06 - 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper

→ Vegetables & Aromatics

07 - 3 scallions, finely sliced

# Steps:

01 - Boil potatoes in salted water until tender, approximately 12 to 15 minutes. Drain thoroughly and return to pan to steam dry for 1 minute.
02 - Mash potatoes until smooth. Beat in butter and milk until creamy consistency is achieved.
03 - Stir in flour, salt, and pepper until soft dough forms. Fold in sliced scallions evenly throughout mixture.
04 - Turn dough onto floured surface. Pat out to approximately 1/2 inch thickness. Cut into rounds or triangles using biscuit cutter or knife.
05 - Heat large nonstick frying pan or griddle over medium heat. Melt small amount of butter until foaming.
06 - Cook potato cakes in batches for 3 to 4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crisp exterior forms.
07 - Serve warm, topped with additional butter if desired.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The contrast between the crispy exterior and fluffy interior creates a texture revelation that store-bought versions never quite capture.
  • They transform leftover mashed potatoes into something so delicious your family will think you planned it all along.
02 -
  • Overworking the dough will activate the gluten in the flour and make your potato cakes tough instead of tender.
  • The thickness matters enormously, too thin and theyll dry out, too thick and the middle might remain gummy.
03 -
  • For even fluffier cakes, use potatoes that have been baked instead of boiled, scooping out the flesh and proceeding with the recipe.
  • A sprinkle of flaky sea salt right after cooking enhances the contrast between the crisp exterior and soft interior.