Delicious Irish Potatoes Recipe for a Hearty Meal
In honor of St. Patrick’s Day, I would like to share with you my favorite recipe for Irish Potatoes. These sweet and creamy treats may not actually contain any potatoes, but they are a beloved tradition in Ireland and the perfect way to celebrate the holiday.
Irish Potatoes are a type of candy that resembles miniature potatoes covered in a dusting of sugar and cinnamon. They are traditionally made with mashed potatoes, cream cheese, and powdered sugar, but every family has their own unique variation. I invite you to try out this recipe and put your own spin on it.
Growing up in Ireland, Irish Potatoes were always a staple at family gatherings and celebrations. The sweet and creamy flavors mixed with the warm spices make them a mouthwatering treat that everyone loves.
Whether you’re celebrating St. Patrick’s Day or simply craving a delicious dessert, this Irish Potatoes recipe is sure to be a hit. So why not indulge in a bit of Irish culture and give these sweet treats a try? Sláinte!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Are you looking to add a touch of Irish charm to your culinary repertoire? Then, look no further than the mouthwatering recipe for Irish Potatoes! This recipe is chock-full of creamy mashed potatoes, coated in a heavenly mixture of sugar, cinnamon, and cream cheese. It’s an incredibly delicious side dish that will impress even the most discerning of palates.
If you are a lover of loaded Irish potatoes or classic colcannon potatoes, then this recipe is for you! The creamy mashed potato filling combined with the sweetness from the cinnamon and powdered sugar creates an irresistible taste that will melt in your mouth. Plus, not only does it taste amazing, but the Irish Potatoes also look like tiny candy balls that will make your whole kitchen smell like heaven!
Irish Potatoes are a perfect addition to any meal, making them a crowd-pleaser at dinner parties or potlucks. You can easily customize this recipe to suit your preference by playing with different variations or even adding some green-colored cinnamon for St. Patrick’s Day festivities.
So, get ready to indulge in this sweet and savory treat that will leave you wanting more. Trust me; once you savor these luscious little Irish Potato candies, you’ll become a believer too!
Ingredient List
Here are the ingredients you will need to make Irish Potatoes recipe:
- Potatoes (medium): 6
- Cream Cheese (softened): 4 ounces, 1 package
- Butter: ½ cup
- Powdered Sugar (10x): 4 cups
- Coconut Cream: ½ cup
- Cinnamon: 1 teaspoon
- Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon
- Salt (pinch)
These ingredients will help you create a creamy mashed potato mixture with a delicious coconut and cream cheese flavor, topped with a dusting of cinnamon and powdered sugar. You may also adjust the amount of sugar and cinnamon according to your preference. It’s essential to use medium-sized potatoes so that they cook evenly without getting mushy. Lastly, be sure to have all your ingredients measured and prepped before starting the cooking process for an easy and efficient recipe-making experience.
The Recipe How-To
Once you have all your ingredients ready, let’s start making the Irish Potatoes. This recipe is perfect for those who want a creamy mashed potatoes with a twist of sweetness. Here is how you make this traditional Irish candy recipe:
Step 1: Boil the potatoes
The first step to making Irish Potatoes is to boil the potatoes. Start by taking 4 medium-sized potatoes, peel and cut them into chunks, and rinse them under cold water. Put them in a large pot and cover them with boiling water.
Step 2: Simmer and mash the potatoes
Let the potatoes cook for about 20-25 minutes or until they are tender. Once they are cooked, drain the water and return the potatoes to the pot.
Using a potato masher or a handheld mixer, mash the potatoes until they are creamier than your typical mashed potato. For this recipe, we want our mashed potatoes to be creamy, so make sure there are no lumps!
Step 3: Add cream cheese mixture
Next, it’s time to add a 4-ounce package of cream cheese, 1/2 cup of softened butter, a pinch of salt, and a tablespoon of vanilla. Mix everything well using the handheld mixer or spatula.
Step 4: Shape and coat
To shape the Irish Potatoes, use two spoons to scoop and shape mix into small balls that look like tiny potatoes. In a separate bowl, combine 7 sugar, some grounded cinnamon (optional), and some powdered sugar on top (known as “powdered 10x sugar).
Roll each ball in this coating mixture until they’re covered perfectly.
Step 5: Refrigerate and enjoy!
Once you’re done shaping each potato candy ball in its coating, place them over a parchment-lined dish/tray and let them rest in the refrigerator for a minimum of 30 – 60 minutes. This will help them set and become much firmer.
After this waiting period, you can now taste the delicious potato candies you have made. Enjoy!
Substitutions and Variations
Exploring different substitutions and variations can be a great way to add a personal touch to any recipe. When it comes to Irish Potatoes Recipe, there are quite a few options you can experiment with. Here are some ideas:
– Coconut Cream Cheese: For those who don’t eat dairy, cream cheese made from coconut milk can be a great alternative. This type of cream cheese has a slightly different taste compared to regular cream cheese, but it still provides the creamy texture that is essential in this recipe.
– Sweet Potatoes: While regular potatoes are the main ingredient in traditional Irish Potato candy, substituting them for sweet potatoes can give the dish a unique twist. The sweetness of the potatoes pairs well with the sugary coating, creating a delicious balance of flavors.
– Cabbage: If you’re looking for a savory twist on this candy recipe, try adding some chopped cabbage to your mashed potatoes. This variation is reminiscent of colcannon, which is a traditional Irish mashed potato dish that features cabbage or kale.
– Flavored Cream Cheese: To add even more flavor to your Irish Potatoes Recipe, try using flavored cream cheese instead of plain cream cheese. Some popular options include cinnamon, vanilla or even strawberry cream cheese.
– Powdered Sugar Alternatives: If you’re looking for alternatives to powdered sugar, consider using brown sugar or honey. Both of these ingredients have distinct flavors that can complement the sweetness of the candy coating.
No matter which substitution or variation you choose, it’s always best to experiment until you find what works best for your tastes. Be creative and don’t be afraid to try new things when cooking!
Serving and Pairing
When it comes to serving and pairing Irish potatoes, there are a variety of options to choose from. This dish is versatile and pairs well with a range of main courses.
For a traditional Irish meal, serve mashed Irish potatoes alongside corned beef and cabbage. This classic combination is a staple in many Irish households, especially on St. Patrick’s Day.
If you’re looking for something a little more unconventional, try serving loaded Irish potatoes as a side dish with grilled or roasted meat. The creamy mashed potato texture and savory flavors will complement the main course perfectly.
Irish potatoes also make a great addition to any brunch spread. Serve them alongside scrambled eggs, bacon, and toast for a hearty and satisfying meal.
Looking for a vegetarian or vegan option? Pair your Irish potatoes with some roasted vegetables or a green salad for a healthy and flavorful side dish.
Finally, let’s not forget about dessert! Sweet potato candy (also known as “Irish potato candy”) is a popular treat around St. Patrick’s Day. These bite-sized balls of coconut cream cheese, powdered sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla look like tiny potatoes and provide the perfect sweet finish to any meal.
No matter how you serve them, Irish potatoes are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. They are easy to prepare and can be adapted to suit any taste or occasion, making them an excellent side dish for any meal.
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
Ah yes, the most important part – what to do with leftovers! I must confess, this is my favorite part of any recipe. In case you are wondering, yes, you can make these Irish Potatoes ahead of time and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for a minute or two until they are heated through.
But wait, there’s more! If you’re like me, you may want to make these potatoes way ahead of time and have them on hand for whenever the mood strikes. Thankfully, these Irish Potatoes freeze beautifully. After cooking, allow them to cool completely and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Place them in a freezer-safe zip-top bag or container and store in the freezer for up to three months.
Now, when the craving hits (and it will), simply remove them from the freezer and let them thaw overnight in the fridge. Reheat as directed above, and enjoy!
One quick note: if you decide to freeze your Irish Potatoes, I recommend making the cream cheese mixture fresh before serving for best results.
And there you have it – no more excuses not to enjoy these amazing potatoes any day of the week!
Tips for Perfect Results
Making Irish potatoes can be a fun and exciting experience, but it can also be a challenging one. The process of making these potato candies requires precision and patience to get the perfect results. To make sure that your Irish potatoes come out perfectly every time, here are some tips that are sure to help.
Firstly, use the right amount of ingredients by measuring them carefully. This is the key to success in cooking or baking. Be sure to follow the recipe and measure everything correctly. Use measuring cups for dry ingredients like sugar and flour, while liquid ingredients such as cream cheese and butter should be measured using measuring spoons.
Secondly, ensure that your potatoes are cooked correctly. Boil them until they are tender and easily mashed with a fork but don’t overcook them or they will turn to mush. Also, make sure to drain them properly because excess water will dilute the flavor and texture of your Irish potatoes.
Thirdly, do not skip on adding the cinnamon in your recipe. It adds an extra depth of flavor that makes these candies stand out from the rest. You can also experiment with different spices like nutmeg or allspice if you prefer.
Fourthly, be generous with adding powdered 10x sugar as it is what gives Irish potatoes their characteristic powdered sugar-coated appearance. Roll each potato candy in powdered sugar repeatedly until each ball is fully coated.
Lastly, let your Irish potatoes chill for at least an hour in the fridge before serving. This helps to firm them up and allows flavors to meld together into a more cohesive taste that melts in your mouth.
By following these tips, you’re sure to make perfect Irish potatoes every time!
FAQ
As we reach the end of this Irish Potatoes Recipe article, it’s time to address some of the most frequently asked questions. I have gathered some of them to help you tackle any doubts or clarify any uncertainties you may have about the recipe. Read on for answers that will guide you towards making the best Irish potatoes candy or side dish ever!
How to cook Irish potatoes?
One of my favorite British dishes is a hearty Irish potato stew with sardines. To start, begin by peeling your Irish potatoes and giving them a good wash. Once they’re cleaned, place them into a pot of water with a pinch of salt and let them boil for around 20 minutes.
While the potatoes are cooking, it’s time to prepare the rest of the stew. Roughly blend some pepper and onion and slice up some spring onions. Heat up some oil in a separate pan and fry the onions. Once they’re cooked, add the blended pepper and let it cook for a few more minutes.
Once the potato is ready, add the fried onions, pepper, and a can of sardines to the pot. Fry it all together for a bit longer and then, voila!, you have a delicious and filling Irish potato stew with the added protein of sardines. Serve hot and enjoy!
What is the difference between Irish potatoes and regular potatoes?
The two types of potatoes share some common features, such as their round shape and white-colored flesh, although some Russets may have an oblong shape. The main difference lies in their skin and texture. The White Irish potato has a thin, white skin, while the Russet potato has a rough, thick, dark brown skin and a very dry flesh.
What can I use Irish potato for?
Potatoes are versatile vegetables that can be prepared in various ways, including boiling, mashing, roasting, or baking. They can also be transformed into popular foods like potato chips, French fries, or hash browns. As a classic side dish, Irish potatoes are commonly served alongside a main course or incorporated into hearty soups and stews.
What makes a potato Irish?
The origins of potatoes can be traced back to the Andes Mountains in South America. However, it was during the 1500s that the potato made its way to Europe and was developed as a crop. This eventually led to the potato becoming a cultural staple in Ireland, and later on, Irish immigrants brought this tradition with them when they migrated to the United States.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, the Irish Potatoes Recipe is one of the best dishes to prepare during St. Patrick’s day, family gatherings or even dinner parties. The recipe is easy and customizable to your preference, whether you prefer it sweet or savory. Moreover, the dessert version is a unique and delicious twist for those with a sweet tooth.
Overall, this dish is perfect for any occasion, and I would encourage you to try it out as soon as possible. Don’t hesitate to use the different substitutions and variations provided in this article to create your perfect Irish Potatoes.
With a little bit of patience and some creativity in the kitchen, you can produce some creamy mashed potatoes that will leave everyone impressed at your cooking skills. Remember to follow my tips on perfecting this recipe for great results.
There’s no doubt that the Irish Potatoes Recipe is one of the best potato dishes out there. It’s time to get creative in the kitchen and add it to your meal planning. Trust me, your guests will not be disappointed with this delightfully flavored dish!
Irish Potatoes Recipe
Ingredients
- 1/2-1 cup butter
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla
- 1 (1 lb) box powdered 10x sugar
- 4 ounces cream cheese
- 1/3 cup cinnamon
- 1/3 cup sugar
Instructions
- Cream the butter and cream cheese.
- Add the vanilla.
- Add the 10x sugar a little at a time.
- Knead by hand.
- Refrigerate.
- Form into small balls and roll into cinnamon, sugar.
- Enjoy!
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.