Irish Boxty, also known as potato pancakes, are a beloved staple of Irish cuisine. Traditionally made with a combination of leftover mashed potatoes and grated raw potatoes for a unique texture and flavor.
Cut the bacon strips into smaller pieces and fry up crisp in a skillet. Drain the bacon, reserving the bacon grease for later to fry the pancakes (or use vegetable oil).
4 strips Bacon
Let the bacon bits cool on paper towels so they absorb any excess bacon grease.
In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, grated potatoes, salt, and pepper.
1½ cup Mashed potatoes, 1 large Potatoes, 1 teaspoon Salt, ¼ teaspoon Black pepper
Gradually add the flour, baking powder, and buttermilk, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough boxty.
¾ cup Flour, 1 teaspoon baking soda, ¾ cups buttermilk
Heat bacon grease or oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
¼ cup Bacon grease
Scoop out about ¼ cup of the potato mixture and form it into a flat patty. Gently place it into the hot oil. Fry the boxty for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil. Repeat steps 4-6 with the remaining potato mixture.
Serve immediately with a dollop of sour cream and the crisp bacon as garnish.
Notes
Use cold mashed potatoes for the best texture.
Grate the raw potatoes just before using them to prevent browning.
Don't overmix the batter, as it can make the boxty tough.
Use a non-stick pan or add enough oil to prevent sticking.
Don't overcrowd the pan when frying to ensure even cooking.