Boxty Recipe Vegan: Easy Traditional Irish Potato Pancakes

Updated On: October 7, 2025

Boxty is a beloved traditional Irish potato pancake that’s crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. This vegan boxty recipe is a delightful twist on the classic, making it accessible for plant-based eaters without compromising on flavor or texture.

Made with simple, wholesome ingredients like grated potatoes, flour, and a few vegan staples, these pancakes can be enjoyed for breakfast, brunch, or even a hearty snack. Whether you’re new to vegan cooking or a seasoned pro, this recipe is straightforward and rewarding, capturing the essence of Irish comfort food in a compassionate and health-conscious way.

Preparing vegan boxty is a fantastic way to celebrate potatoes and discover how versatile they are beyond the usual fry or mash. The recipe uses plant-based milk and flaxseed meal as an egg substitute, ensuring a perfect bind and a lovely golden crust.

If you love rustic, savory dishes with a crispy edge and fluffy center, this is definitely a recipe to try. Plus, it pairs wonderfully with a variety of toppings and sides, making it a customizable meal for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Vegan Boxty combines the best of traditional Irish cooking with the benefits of a plant-based diet. Here’s why this recipe will become a favorite:

  • Simple Ingredients: Uses everyday pantry staples and fresh potatoes.
  • Delicious Texture: Crispy outside, soft and fluffy inside – just like classic boxty.
  • Versatile: Great as a breakfast dish, snack, or side with your favorite vegan toppings.
  • Allergen-Friendly: Free from dairy, eggs, and refined sugars.
  • Quick to Make: Ready in under 40 minutes, perfect for busy days.

Ingredients

  • 2 large potatoes (about 400g), peeled and grated
  • 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour for GF option)
  • 2 tbsp flaxseed meal mixed with 6 tbsp water (flax egg)
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) unsweetened plant-based milk (soy, oat, or almond work well)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil for frying (such as sunflower or canola oil)

Equipment

  • Box grater or food processor with grating attachment
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Frying pan or non-stick skillet
  • Spatula
  • Colander or clean kitchen towel (for draining potatoes)
  • Mixing spoon or whisk

Instructions

  1. Prepare the flax egg: Combine 2 tbsp flaxseed meal with 6 tbsp water in a small bowl. Stir and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it thickens to a gel-like consistency.
  2. Grate the potatoes: Using a box grater or food processor, grate the peeled potatoes. Place the grated potatoes in a colander or clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much liquid as possible. This step is crucial for crispy boxty.
  3. Mix the batter: In a large bowl, combine the grated potatoes, chopped onion, all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, black pepper, and parsley (if using). Add the flax egg and plant-based milk. Stir well until you achieve a thick batter. It should hold together but not be too runny. Add a little more flour or milk if needed to adjust consistency.
  4. Heat the pan: Place a frying pan or non-stick skillet over medium heat and add 1 tbsp of vegetable oil.
  5. Cook the boxty: Once the oil is hot, spoon about 1/4 cup of batter onto the pan and spread it slightly to form a pancake shape. Cook for 4-5 minutes on one side until golden brown and crispy, then carefully flip and cook the other side for another 4-5 minutes.
  6. Repeat: Continue cooking the remaining batter in batches, adding more oil as needed.
  7. Serve hot: Transfer cooked boxty to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Serve immediately with your favorite vegan toppings or sides.

Tips & Variations

“For extra crispy boxty, be sure to squeeze out all the moisture from the grated potatoes — this is the secret to achieving that perfect golden crust!”

  • Herb Variations: Add fresh dill, chives, or thyme instead of parsley for a different flavor profile.
  • Spicy Kick: Mix in a pinch of smoked paprika or chili flakes to the batter for a gentle heat.
  • Sweet Potato Boxty: Substitute half or all of the potatoes with sweet potatoes for a colorful and slightly sweeter version.
  • Gluten-Free: Use chickpea flour or a gluten-free all-purpose blend instead of wheat flour.
  • Make Ahead: Prepare the batter in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Stir gently before cooking.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Per Serving (2 pancakes)
Calories 180 kcal
Carbohydrates 35 g
Protein 5 g
Fat 4 g
Fiber 4 g
Sugar 2 g
Sodium 350 mg

Serving Suggestions

Vegan boxty is incredibly versatile and complements a range of flavors. Here are some delicious ways to serve it:

  • With Vegan Sour Cream and Chives: A classic pairing that adds creaminess and fresh herb aroma.
  • Topped with Sautéed Mushrooms and Spinach: A hearty, earthy option perfect for brunch.
  • With Avocado Slices and Tomato Salsa: Adds a fresh, vibrant contrast to the crispy pancakes.
  • As a Side Dish: Pair with a warm bowl of New Mexico chili or a comforting Chipotle black beans and rice.
  • Sweet Version: Drizzle with maple syrup and fresh berries for a sweet twist.

Conclusion

This vegan boxty recipe is a wonderful way to bring a taste of Ireland into your kitchen while honoring a plant-based lifestyle. The combination of grated potatoes, flaxseed egg, and plant-based milk creates a pancake that’s both crispy and tender, perfect for any meal of the day.

With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can whip up these delicious potato pancakes that everyone will love, vegan or not.

Whether you enjoy them savory or sweet, boxty offers a comforting and satisfying dish packed with flavor and texture. For more inspiring recipes, be sure to try the Classico Sun Dried Tomato Alfredo Sauce Recipe or treat yourself to a delightful dessert like the Cinnamon Pecan Ice Cream Recipe.

Happy cooking and enjoy your vegan boxty adventure!

📖 Recipe Card: Boxty Recipe Vegan

Description: A traditional Irish potato pancake made vegan by using plant-based ingredients. Crispy on the outside and soft inside, perfect for breakfast or brunch.

Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT20M
Total Time: PT35M

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 2 cups grated raw potatoes
  • 1 cup mashed potatoes
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup oat milk
  • 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons chopped green onions
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil for frying

Instructions

  1. Mix ground flaxseed with water and set aside for 5 minutes.
  2. Combine grated potatoes, mashed potatoes, and flour in a bowl.
  3. Add baking powder, salt, pepper, and green onions to the mixture.
  4. Pour in the flaxseed mixture and oat milk, stirring until combined.
  5. Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  6. Spoon batter into the skillet, flattening into pancakes.
  7. Cook each side for 4-5 minutes until golden brown.
  8. Drain on paper towels and serve warm.

Nutrition: Calories: 180 | Protein: 4g | Fat: 5g | Carbs: 30g

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Marta K

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