Boxty Breakfast

STEP 1 Begin by preheating your oven on its lowest setting to keep your cooked boxty warm and crispy later on. Carefully peel the potatoes, then grate two of them finely before setting aside. Cut the remaining two potatoes into large chunks and place them in a pot of boiling water. Boil gently for 10-15 minutes until the chunks are tender and easily pierced with a fork. While the potatoes boil, take the grated potatoes and wrap them in a clean tea towel; firmly squeeze to remove as much liquid as possible—this step ensures your boxty will have the perfect texture without sogginess. Once the boiled potatoes are done, mash them smoothly in a bowl. Combine the fluffy mashed potatoes with your drained grated potatoes, finely sliced spring onions, and plain flour to create a cohesive batter. STEP 2 In a separate large bowl, whisk the egg whites until soft peaks form—this lightens the batter wonderfully. Gently fold the buttermilk into the whipped egg whites, then add the bicarbonate of soda. Carefully incorporate this mixture into your potato blend, taking care to keep the batter airy and light. STEP 3 Heat a large non-stick frying pan over medium heat, then add a tablespoon of butter along with some vegetable oil to prevent burning and enhance crisping. Spoon 3 to 4 generous dollops of the boxty batter into the pan. Cook gently for 3-5 minutes on each side until each cake is irresistibly golden and crusty. Transfer cooked boxty to a baking plate to keep warm in the oven while you prepare the remaining batches, adding more butter and oil as needed. You’ll make about 16 crumpet-sized boxty cakes from this mix. TIP: Boxty can be prepped a day ahead—place them on kitchen paper to drain excess oil, then reheat in a low oven for 20 minutes, maintaining their delightful crispness. STEP 4 Set your grill to medium heat. Meanwhile, place the cherry tomatoes in a heavy-based pan, adding a generous knob of butter and a splash of oil. Fry gently for approximately 5 minutes until the tomatoes soften and release their sweet juices. Grill the bacon until crisp to your liking. Arrange the boxty, bacon, and freshly cooked eggs in a beautiful stack on each plate. Serve the luscious, buttery tomatoes on the side to add a fresh and savory finish. Enjoy your hearty, flavorsome Irish breakfast feast!