Boxty (Irish Potato Pancakes)

Preparation

1. Step 1

   Prepare the pickled red onions: Slice the red onion thinly from stem to stem, then transfer slices to a small heatproof bowl. In a small saucepan, combine the vinegar, sugar, salt and ½ cup water. Bring to a simmer over medium, stirring occasionally, until sugar and salt dissolve, then pour on top of onions; set aside.

2. Step 2

   Prepare the boxty: Fill a medium saucepan halfway with water; season generously with salt and bring to a boil over high heat.

3. Step 3

   Peel half the potatoes, then cut them into 1-inch cubes, tossing the cubes into the water as you go. Once the water comes to a boil, continue to cook until potatoes are soft, 10 to 15 minutes.

4. Step 4

   While the diced potatoes boil, peel the remaining potatoes, then grate them coarsely using a box grater. Season the grated potatoes generously with 2 teaspoons sea salt and 1 teaspoon pepper, toss to coat, then transfer them to a clean, dry kitchen towel. Squeeze the grated potatoes over a sink to remove the excess liquid, then transfer them to a large bowl.

5. Step 5

   Once the diced potatoes are soft, transfer them to a colander to strain, then transfer to the large bowl with the grated potatoes; mash until creamy, and mashed and grated potatoes are well combined.

6. Step 6

   Pour the buttermilk on top of the warm potato mixture and stir briefly just to combine.

7. Step 7

   Add the flour and baking powder and stir until thoroughly combined.

8. Step 8

   In a large cast-iron or nonstick skillet, heat 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Working in batches, spoon in the potato mixture using ⅓ cup measure to form small 3- to 4-inch-wide pancakes, leaving at least 1 inch of space between pancakes. Cook until nicely browned on both sides, 4 to 5 minutes per side. Repeat with remaining pancakes, adding more butter between batches as needed.

9. Step 9

   Serve pancakes topped with pickled red onions, and smoked salmon and sour cream, if you like.