There’s nothing quite like the comforting crunch of perfectly fried potatoes. Whether you’re serving them up as a side dish, a hearty breakfast, or a late-night snack, fried potatoes bring warmth and satisfaction to any meal. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a dish that’s not only delicious but also incredibly easy to whip up in your own kitchen. Let’s dive into this simple yet irresistible recipe that’s bound to become a favorite in your household.
Why Cooks Rave About It
Fried potatoes are a staple in many cuisines around the world, and it’s no wonder why. They offer a crispy exterior with a fluffy interior, making them the ultimate comfort food. The versatility of this dish allows you to pair it with just about anything, from eggs to grilled meats. Plus, the combination of onions and garlic elevates the flavor, making each bite a delightful experience.
What Goes In
To create these mouthwatering fried potatoes, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 6 tablespoons salted butter
- 1 small onion, diced (about ½ cup)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 pounds russet potatoes, cut into approximately 1-inch cubes
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Season-All salt
- 1 tablespoon parsley, chopped
These ingredients come together to create a dish that is full of flavor and sure to please everyone at the table.
Appliances & Accessories
Before you start cooking, here are some handy appliances and accessories you’ll need:
- Large skillet or frying pan – for frying the potatoes to golden perfection.
- Spatula – to flip the potatoes while they cook, ensuring even browning.
- Cutting board and knife – for chopping the onions and garlic.
- Measuring spoons – to get the seasonings just right.
- Paper towels – for draining excess oil after frying.
Having these tools at your disposal will streamline your cooking process and help you achieve the best results.
Make Fried Potatoes: A Simple Method
Ready to get cooking? Follow these easy steps to make your fried potatoes:
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Start by washing and peeling your russet potatoes. Cut them into approximately 1-inch cubes, ensuring they are uniform for even cooking.
Step 2: Heat the Skillet
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the 6 tablespoons of salted butter and allow it to melt completely.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
Add the diced onion to the skillet. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until they become translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and continue cooking for another minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Cook the Potatoes
Carefully add the cubed potatoes to the skillet. Stir to coat them in the butter and oil mixture. Sprinkle with cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Season-All salt.
Step 5: Fry Until Golden
Cook the potatoes for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. You can adjust the heat as needed to prevent burning.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
Once the potatoes are cooked to your liking, remove them from heat. Garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh pop of color and flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy the crispy goodness!
Make It Your Way
Personalizing your fried potatoes is part of the fun! Here are some ideas to customize this dish:
- Add cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheese on top during the last few minutes of cooking for a melty finish.
- Spice it up: Incorporate additional spices like smoked paprika or chili powder for an extra kick.
- Veggie addition: Toss in some bell peppers or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition.
- Herb infusion: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or thyme for a unique twist.
Feel free to get creative! The base of fried potatoes is versatile enough to handle a variety of flavors.
Things That Go Wrong
Even the best cooks can face challenges in the kitchen. Here are some common pitfalls when making fried potatoes and how to avoid them:
- Potatoes sticking to the pan: Ensure your skillet is adequately heated and the butter is fully melted before adding the potatoes.
- Uneven cooking: Cut the potatoes into uniform sizes to ensure they cook evenly.
- Burned garlic: Keep an eye on the garlic as it can burn quickly. Add it after the onions have softened.
- Potatoes turning mushy: Avoid overcrowding the skillet. Fry in batches if necessary to maintain crispness.
With a little attention, you can avoid these common mistakes and achieve deliciously fried potatoes.
Prep Ahead & Store
If you want to save time, you can prep your ingredients ahead of time:
Wash, peel, and chop the potatoes, then store them in a bowl of water in the refrigerator to prevent browning. You can also chop the onions and garlic in advance to make cooking quicker.
Leftover fried potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over medium heat until heated through and crispy again.
Ask the Chef
Can I use other types of potatoes?
Absolutely! While russet potatoes are ideal for frying due to their starchy nature, you can also use Yukon Gold or red potatoes for a different texture and flavor.
What can I serve with fried potatoes?
Fried potatoes pair wonderfully with eggs, grilled meats, or even as a base for a breakfast burrito. They also make a great side for dishes like Creamy Corn And Chicken Chowder With Potatoes.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes! Substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and use olive oil as directed. This keeps the dish vegan while still delicious.
How do I know when my potatoes are done cooking?
Your potatoes are ready when they are golden brown and crispy on the outside and fork-tender on the inside. A good test is to pierce one with a fork; it should easily slide through.
If you’re looking for more potato inspiration, check out these delicious recipes:
These recipes are sure to satisfy your potato cravings and add variety to your meals.
Final Bite
Fried potatoes are more than just a side dish; they are a canvas for creativity and flavor. With the right technique and ingredients, you can create a dish that is crispy, savory, and utterly satisfying. Whether you enjoy them as a simple accompaniment or a hearty main dish, fried potatoes are sure to bring a smile to your face.
Get ready to impress your family and friends with this easy and delectable recipe. Happy cooking!
Fried Potatoes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by washing and peeling your russet potatoes. Cut them into approximately 1-inch cubes, ensuring they are uniform for even cooking.
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the 6 tablespoons of salted butter and allow it to melt completely.
- Add the diced onion to the skillet. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until they become translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and continue cooking for another minute until fragrant.
- Carefully add the cubed potatoes to the skillet. Stir to coat them in the butter and oil mixture. Sprinkle with cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Season-All salt.
- Cook the potatoes for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. You can adjust the heat as needed to prevent burning.
- Once the potatoes are cooked to your liking, remove them from heat. Garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh pop of color and flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy the crispy goodness!
Notes
- For extra flavor, try adding cheese during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Ensure even cooking by cutting potatoes into uniform sizes.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
