Mouthwatering Irish Potato Balls Recipe
Are you in search of a recipe that perfectly captures the flavors of Ireland? Look no further than this delicious and easy-to-make Irish Potato Balls Recipe. These savory little treats are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s St. Patrick’s Day or just a cozy night in with loved ones.
Made with simple yet flavorful ingredients like unsalted butter, scallions, and new potatoes, these potato balls are rich and comforting. They can be served as an appetizer or a main dish and are sure to satisfy even the most discerning palates.
And if you have a sweet tooth, we’ve got you covered too! This recipe also includes instructions on how to make traditional Irish Potato Candy, a sweet treat that will melt in your mouth.
So what are you waiting for? Get ready to impress your guests with these delightful Irish potato balls and candy recipes. No matter where you are, one bite of these delicious treats will transport you straight to the Emerald Isle.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Are you looking for a hearty and delicious Irish recipe that will satisfy your cravings? Look no further than these amazing Irish Potato Balls! Not only are they incredibly easy to make, but they incorporate the signature flavors of Ireland that you won’t want to miss out on.
One of the main reasons you’ll love this recipe is because it’s incredibly versatile. These potato balls can be used as a side dish, an appetizer or even as a meal by themselves. The creamy and buttery mashed potatoes offer a satisfying base that blends perfectly with the other ingredients.
Speaking of ingredients, this potato ball recipe incorporates fresh scallions, parsley, and parmesan cheese to add a touch of flavor to each delicious bite. Plus, the addition of white pepper and unsalted butter elevates the taste of these balls even more.
These Irish Potato Balls are perfect for special occasions like St. Patrick’s Day or as an everyday meal that will bring a smile to your face. The crispy outer layer and fluffy inside make for a delightful experience that is hard to resist.
So if you’re looking to enjoy some authentic Irish cuisine in the comfort of your own home, give this recipe a try! Not only is it easy to recreate, but it’s also affordable and delicious.
Ingredient List
- 1 ½ pounds of new potatoes, boiled and mashed
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 1 scallion, finely chopped
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
- Salt and white pepper to taste
Irish Potato Balls is an easy-to-make recipe that requires simple ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. This recipe features mashed new potatoes as the base ingredient to create a delightful appetizer or side dish. Be sure to use unsalted butter at room temperature so that it mixes well with the mashed potatoes. Finely chop the scallions and fresh parsley before adding them to the mixing bowl with the rest of the ingredients. Lightly beat the egg before adding it to the mixing bowl as well. The grated parmesan cheese adds a sharp and nutty flavor to this recipe. Salt and white pepper are used to season the potato dough which will be formed into balls later on.
The Recipe How-To
Now, it’s time to make the Irish Potato Balls! Follow these steps closely for perfectly crisp and flavorful potato balls.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups of mashed Irish potatoes (preferably leftover mashed potatoes)
- 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons of minced parsley
- 1 scallion, finely chopped
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 pinch of white pepper
- Salt to taste
Preparation:
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In a large mixing bowl, add the mashed Irish potatoes (at room temperature), softened unsalted butter, Parmesan cheese, minced parsley, finely chopped scallions, egg yolk, white pepper, salt, and mix until everything is fully combined. Do not overmix.
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Using a small cookie scoop or a tablespoon, grab about a tablespoon sized dough.
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Roll the dough between your hands to form balls.
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Meanwhile, in a separate small bowl, mix together some ground cinnamon and some confectioners sugar.
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Once all the balls are formed, roll each of them around in the cinnamon sugar mixture until they are evenly coated.
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In a large pan over medium-high heat, melt some butter and fry the potato balls until crispy and golden brown on all sides.
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Serve warm with some sour cream on top and garnish with a parsley sprig.
These Irish Potato balls are incredibly delicious and perfect as an appetizer for any meal or even as a snack throughout the day! The touch of cinnamon in this recipe will remind you of those cozy winter days spent by the fireplace with your loved ones. Enjoy!
Substitutions and Variations
Looking to switch things up with this classic Irish potato balls recipe? Not to worry, I’ve got some substitutions and variations that will add some unique twists to this delicacy.
First off, if you’re looking for a plant-based option, you can substitute the traditional butter with vegan butter or coconut oil. The result is still delicious and perfect for those following a vegan or dairy-free diet.
If you’re looking to get creative with your filling, try adding a dash of ground cinnamon or nutmeg to your mashed potatoes. This adds a warm and cozy flavor to the dish and makes it perfect for fall weather.
For a sweeter candy-like variation, try making Irish potato candy by mixing powdered sugar, cream cheese, and coconut cream cheese together until smooth. Roll the mixture into tablespoon-sized balls and then roll each ball in cinnamon. This treat is perfect for those who have a sweet tooth but want something unique other than just cookies or cake.
To change things up even more, stuff your mashed potatoes with chopped cooked bacon bits and cheddar cheese before forming them into balls. Try frying them for an added texture and crunch to make savory potato balls that are great as appetizers.
Finally, if you have any leftover mashed potatoes from dinner – which I doubt but it happens – you can use these as well! Just be careful not to add too much salt since the mashed potatoes might already contain some.
So whether you’re looking for something savory or sweet, these substitutions and variations will make any variation of this recipe unique and special – sure to impress your friends and family on St Patrick’s day or any other occasion throughout the year!
Serving and Pairing
Once you’ve prepared these delicious Irish potato balls, it’s time to serve and enjoy them. These tasty bites make great appetizers or even a main course for any occasion. I love serving them alongside a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
For a special touch, garnish each potato ball with a fresh parsley sprig and sprinkle with grated parmesan cheese. These additions add a burst of flavor that complements the rich and creamy texture of the Irish potatoes.
Pair these crispy-on-the-outside, tender-on-the-inside Irish potato balls with a cold pint of your favorite beer. You can also try serving them with a hot and tangy sauce, like hot sauce or sour cream, to add an extra kick of flavor.
If you want to get creative with the presentation, you can stuff the potato balls with leftover mashed potatoes, cream cheese or any other desired fillings. The possibilities are endless!
When it comes to serving these delights at parties or gatherings, they’ll be sure to leave your guests craving more. Whether it’s St. Patrick’s Day, game night, or just because it’s Tuesday, these Irish potato balls are the perfect snack for any occasion.
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
This recipe for Irish Potato Balls is a great dish to prepare in advance, and reheats surprisingly well. To make things easier when it comes time to assemble the potato balls, you can boil the potatoes and mix the other ingredients up to 1 day before. Simply store your mashed potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge, and bring back to room temperature before continuing with the recipe.
If you find yourself with leftover mashed potatoes, this recipe is also a great way to use them up. When refrigerated properly, these potato balls can be kept for up to 3 days. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge, and reheat them in the oven or microwave until warm.
To reheat your Irish Potato Balls in the oven, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the chilled potato balls on a baking sheet. Bake for about 15 minutes or until heated through. You can also reheat them in the microwave by placing them on a microwave-safe dish and cooking them for 30-second intervals until hot.
In general, these potato balls also freeze very well. If you’re planning on freezing them, do so after forming them into balls but before rolling them in coconut or cinnamon sugar. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Once they’re frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag or freezer-safe container and store for up to 3 months.
When you’re ready to eat your frozen potato balls, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake them straight from frozen for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through. These preserved delights are great side dishes for your meals anytime of the year whether it’s party time or just casual dinner moments!
Tips for Perfect Results
As a chef specializing in Irish cuisine, I want to share with you some tips that will help you achieve perfect results when making Irish potato balls. This recipe is relatively easy, but paying attention to small details can make a big difference in your final product.
Firstly, when boiling the potatoes, make sure to use new potatoes as they are less starchy and will result in fluffier and lighter potato balls. Also, boil the potatoes with the skin on and do not overcook them as it can lead to a watery texture.
After draining the potatoes, wait for them to cool until they are comfortable to handle. You don’t want them too hot or too cold as this can affect the texture of the dough.
When mashing the potatoes, avoid using an electric mixer or food processor, which releases too much starch and can cause gluey potato balls. Use a potato masher or ricer instead, which ensures fluffy and light mashed potatoes.
When shaping the potato balls, use a cookie scoop or tablespoon for even sizes. After rolling them into balls, refrigerate them for at least 30 minutes before frying. This helps hold their shape and prevent them from falling apart while frying.
For even frying, keep the heat at medium-high and fry in batches if needed. Don’t overcrowd the pan as it reduces the temperature of the oil and leads to greasy potato balls. Fry until golden brown for a crispy exterior while maintaining a soft and pillowy interior.
When serving, garnish with fresh parsley sprigs or grated parmesan cheese for added flavor and texture.
By following these tips, you will be able to make perfect Irish potato balls every time. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations such as stuffed potato balls or mixing in savory ingredients like scallions or sour cream. Enjoy!
FAQ
Before we conclude this article, let me take the opportunity to answer some frequently asked questions about the Irish Potato Balls Recipe. Here are some of the most common queries I’ve come across regarding this recipe, so if you have them too, keep reading.
What is Irish potato candy made of?
Irish potato candy is a tasty treat that involves a unique combination of ingredients. To make it, you’ll need softened butter, cream cheese, confectioners powdered sugar, shredded coconut, and vanilla. Once the ingredients are combined, the candy is formed into small potato-shaped pieces that are then coated in ground cinnamon.
What kind of potatoes do the Irish use?
The traditional potato variety of Ireland, known as the Irish Lumper, is a type of white potato with a more waxy texture than starchy. When making mashed potatoes with these potatoes, it is better to smash them rather than emulsifying them, which creates the perfect base for mixing delicious and hearty ingredients.
What is the difference between Irish potatoes and regular potatoes?
The two types of potatoes share similarities in terms of their shape and color, as they both have white flesh and round structures. However, the difference lies in their skin and texture. The White Irish potato boasts a thin, white skin while the Russet potato has a rough, thick, dark brown skin and a very dry flesh.
Why is the candy called Irish potato?
The origins of Irish potato candy can be linked back to Irish immigrants who migrated to the United States during the early stages of the country’s formation. Notably, William Penn, who had ancestral ties to Ireland, embraced the Quaker faith while living in Ireland.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, the Irish Potato Balls recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves potatoes and delicious snacks. With its simple yet satisfying ingredients and flavorful taste, this dish will definitely satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re hosting a St. Patrick’s Day celebration or just looking for a new twist on mashed potatoes, these potato balls will impress your guests and leave them wanting more.
Plus, with various possibilities for substitutions and variations, you can always make this recipe unique to your tastes. From adding parmesan cheese to switching out mashed sweet potatoes, the possibilities are endless.
Remember, when preparing the dish, don’t be afraid to get creative and experiment with flavors. And make it fun by enlisting your family or friends to help you roll up the balls and share in the deliciousness.
So go ahead and add this recipe to your arsenal of go-to comfort foods. With its savory taste and easy preparation, you’ll want to make these potato balls again and again.
Irish Potato Balls Recipe
Ingredients
- 6 whole peeled new potatoes
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon white pepper
- 1 slightly beaten egg
- 1 tablespoon finely minced scallion
- 1 tablespoon finely minced parsley
- 2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- parsley sprig, as garnish
Instructions
- Combine potatoes and water to cover in a saucepot, over medium heat. Bring to a
- boil and simmer until potatoes are tender. Drain well and mash until smooth.
- Add 2 tablespoons butter, sour cream, salt, white pepper, egg, scallions, and
- minced parsley, mix well. Shape into 2-inch diameter balls (2 per portion).
- Cover and chill for 2-24 hours. Place into an ungreased baking pan. Brush with
- melted butter and sprinkle with parmesan cheese. Bake 375 degrees for 15-20
- minutes, until browned lightly. Arrange onto a serving platter. Garnish with
- parsley sprigs. Serve hot.
Nutrition
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Brian is a British chef cum food blogger who has been in the kitchen since he was a young lad. Growing up in Manchester, he developed a passion for cooking and a keen eye for the perfect dish. He now runs his own blog and YouTube channel, which is dedicated to sharing his passion for food with the world.