Traditional Irish Boxty: A Step-by-Step Guide

Ingredients

1 cup raw, finely grated potatoes
1 cup leftover mashed potatoes
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
2 teaspoons salt
2 eggs, lightly beaten
1/4 cup (about 60 ml) milk
Butter or oil for frying

Steps and instructions

Place the grated raw potatoes in a clean cloth and twist to remove excess moisture.
In a large bowl, mix together the raw, drained potatoes and mashed potatoes.
Sift in the flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix well.
Add in the beaten eggs and milk, and stir until you have a batter of dropping consistency.
Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and add a bit of butter or oil.
Drop spoonfuls of the potato mixture into the pan and flatten with the back of the spoon.
Cook the boxty pancakes for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
Repeat this process until all the potato mixture is used up. Add more butter or oil as needed.
Serve the boxty warm, on their own or with your favourite accompaniment.

Tools for making

Grater - Used to finely grate the raw potatoes.
Large Bowl - Used to mix the ingredients together.
Sieve - Used to sift the flour, baking powder, and salt.
Whisk - Used to beat the eggs and milk into the batter.
Non-stick Pan - Used to cook the boxty pancakes.
Spoon - Used to drop spoonfuls of the potato mixture onto the pan and to flatten them.
Cloth - Used to drain excess moisture from the grated raw potatoes.
Butter or Oil - Used for frying the boxty pancakes.

Recipe variations

Add chopped scallions or chives to the batter for added flavor.
Mix in grated cheese, such as cheddar or Parmesan, for a cheesy twist.
Try using sweet potatoes or a combination of different types of potatoes for a unique flavor.
Replace the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option.
For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour.
Add cooked bacon or ham to the batter for a meaty variation.
Experiment with different spices or herbs, such as paprika, garlic powder, or rosemary, to customize the flavor.
Make mini boxty pancakes by using a smaller amount of batter and frying them as bite-sized snacks.
Serve the boxty with sour cream or a tangy sauce, such as a yogurt-dill sauce or a spicy tomato relish.

Recipe overview

Boxty is a traditional Irish potato pancake that combines both raw and cooked potatoes to create a unique texture and taste. Its name comes from the Irish phrase "arán bocht tí," which means "poor-house bread". This easy-to-follow recipe gives you a step-by-step guide to making your own delicious boxty at home. Expect a dish that is crispy on the outside, soft within, and perfect for pairing with a variety of accompaniments. Whether you serve it for breakfast, lunch, or as a side-dish for dinner, boxty is a versatile and satisfying addition to your recipe repertoire. Enjoy the process of making it, and more importantly, enjoy every bite!

Common questions

Can I use frozen grated potatoes? Yes, you can use frozen grated potatoes, but make sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly before using in the recipe.
Can I make boxty pancakes in advance? Yes, you can make the boxty pancakes in advance. Simply cook them as instructed, let them cool, and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat them in a pan or in the oven before serving.
Can I freeze the boxty pancakes? Yes, you can freeze the boxty pancakes. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer bag or container. They can be kept frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator before reheating.
What can I serve with boxty pancakes? Boxty pancakes can be served with a variety of toppings or fillings. Traditional options include sour cream, applesauce, smoked salmon, or a full Irish breakfast. You can also get creative and serve them with your favorite sweet or savory accompaniments.

Serving dishes and utensils

Mixing Bowl - A large bowl for mixing the ingredients together.
Grater - To grate the raw potatoes finely.
Clean Cloth - To drain excess moisture from the grated potatoes.
Sifter - To sift the flour, baking powder, and salt into the mixture.
Non-stick Pan - For frying the boxty pancakes.
Spoon - To drop spoonfuls of the potato mixture into the pan and flatten them.

Origin stories

Boxty, a traditional Irish potato pancake, has long been a staple in Irish homes, particularly in the northern counties. The name 'boxty' is believed to derive from the Irish phrase 'arán bocht tí' which translates to 'poor house bread', reflecting the dish's humble beginnings. This pancake made largely from potatoes, a crop readily available and affordable to the Irish people, was a simple yet fulfilling meal for families in harder times. In fact, there's even an old Irish rhyme that goes "Boxty on the griddle, boxty in the pan; if you can't make boxty, you'll never get a man", indicating its cultural significance. Today, boxty is still enjoyed in many homes and even served in restaurants, a testament to its timeless appeal.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.