Boxty Pancakes

1. 1

   Step 1

   • a.Prepare the Potatoes
   • b.Peel all the potatoes. Cut half of them (about 1/2 lb) into 1-inch chunks.
   • c.Place the potato chunks in a medium saucepan and cover with cold water by at least one inch. Add 1 tsp of salt for boiling.
   • d.Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are very tender when pierced with a fork.
2. 2

   Step 2

   • a.Grate and Squeeze Raw Potatoes
   • b.While the potatoes are boiling, finely grate the remaining raw potatoes using a box grater.
   • c.Place the grated potato into the center of a clean kitchen towel or several layers of cheesecloth.
   • d.Gather the ends and twist tightly over a bowl or the sink to squeeze out as much liquid as possible. This step is crucial for a crispy texture. The squeezed potato should feel quite dry.
3. 3

   Step 3

   • a.Mash and Combine Potatoes
   • b.Once the potato chunks are tender, drain them thoroughly. Return them to the hot, empty pot for a minute to steam dry.
   • c.Mash the potatoes until completely smooth, ensuring there are no lumps. Set aside to cool for 5-10 minutes.
   • d.In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled mashed potatoes with the squeezed raw grated potatoes. Mix them together with a fork.
4. 4

   Step 4

   • a.Make the Batter
   • b.Add the all-purpose flour, baking soda, 1 tsp of salt, and black pepper to the potato mixture. Stir until just combined.
   • c.Gradually pour in the buttermilk while stirring, until you achieve a thick, spoonable batter, similar in consistency to thick oatmeal. Do not overmix.
5. 5

   Step 5

   • a.Cook the Boxty
   • b.Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a large cast-iron skillet or non-stick frying pan over medium heat.
   • c.Once the butter is foaming, drop about 1/4 cup of batter per pancake into the pan. Use the back of the spoon to gently flatten each into a 3-4 inch circle, about 1/2-inch thick.
   • d.Cook for 4-5 minutes per side, until deep golden brown and the edges are crisp. The inside should be soft and fully cooked.
   • e.Work in batches, adding more butter to the pan as needed between batches to prevent sticking.
6. 6

   Step 6

   • a.Serve
   • b.Transfer the cooked boxty to a wire rack set over a baking sheet and keep warm in a low oven (200°F / 95°C) while you finish cooking the rest.
   • c.Serve immediately with your favorite toppings, such as sour cream, chopped chives, applesauce, or a full Irish breakfast.

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