Boxty is a classic Irish potato dish that is traditionally enjoyed for breakfast or as a side with stew. This recipe features a delicious combination of smooth mashed potatoes and crispy, golden-brown pancakes, making it a comforting and satisfying dish.
Ingredients:
- 3 Russet potatoes, divided into two parts
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 teaspoons salt, divided
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 1/2 to 2 cups buttermilk (adjust based on consistency)
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- 1/2 cup sour cream, (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Potatoes:
- Peel two of the Russet potatoes and cut them into small cubes.
- Peel the third potato but set it aside for later use.
2. Cook the Cubed Potatoes:
- Place the cubed potatoes in a medium-sized pot and cover them with water.
- Stir in 1 teaspoon of salt.
- Bring the water to a boil, reduce to a simmer, and cook for about 10-15 minutes until the potatoes are fork-tender.
- Drain the potatoes and mash them until smooth.
- Transfer the mashed potatoes to the refrigerator to cool for 1-2 hours to make them easier to handle.
3. Grate the Raw Potato:
- Peel and coarsely grate the third potato.
- Place the grated potato in a clean kitchen towel or several layers of paper towels and squeeze out as much moisture as possible. This step is crucial to prevent sogginess.
4. Make the Boxty Batter:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chilled mashed potatoes with the grated potato.
- Add the all-purpose flour, 1 1/2 teaspoons salt, and baking soda.
- Gradually add 1 1/2 cups buttermilk, mixing until you achieve a thick but moist consistency. Add a little more buttermilk if the batter is too dry.
5. Cook the Boxty:
- Heat vegetable oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat.
- Spoon large dollops of the potato mixture into the pan and flatten them with the back of a spoon to form pancakes.
- Fry each pancake for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and crisp.
- Remove the boxties from the pan and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
6. Serve:
- Serve the boxties warm, topped with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of chopped green onions.
Serving Suggestions:
- Enjoy these traditional Irish boxties as a savory breakfast or as a side dish with your favorite stew.
- They can also be served as a comforting snack or appetizer!
This recipe captures the rich flavors and textures of Irish cuisine, providing a delicious way to enjoy potatoes in a new and exciting form. Enjoy!