There’s something undeniably comforting about a plate piled high with Southern Fried Breakfast Potatoes. Crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, these potatoes are the quintessential way to start your morning. Whether served alongside eggs, bacon, or toast, they bring a hearty, satisfying element to any breakfast table. The smoky flavor from the paprika and the kick from cayenne pepper elevate these potatoes from ordinary to extraordinary, making them a staple in Southern kitchens. Let’s dive into the reasons why you should whip up a batch of these delicious spuds!
Top Reasons to Make Southern Fried Breakfast Potatoes
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of spices, especially smoked paprika and cayenne, adds a depth of flavor that’s hard to resist.
- Versatile Dish: Pair them with eggs, serve them as a side with your favorite protein, or enjoy them on their own as a snack.
- Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch in no time!
- Perfect for Meal Prep: These potatoes reheat beautifully, making them a great option for quick breakfasts throughout the week.
What You’ll Need
- 8 Cups water
- 3 large Russet potatoes – peeled and cut into 1 inch cubes
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 4 Cups peanut oil or vegetable oil
- Salt to finish
- 1 Cup mayonnaise
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- ½ Cup tomato paste
- 2 teaspoons sherry vinegar
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
Gear Up: What to Grab
- Large Pot: For boiling the potatoes.
- Slotted Spoon: To remove the potatoes from the boiling water.
- Deep Fryer or Heavy Skillet: For frying the potatoes to perfection.
- Mixing Bowl: To prepare your mayonnaise sauce.
- Whisk: For mixing the sauce ingredients.
- Paper Towels: For draining excess oil from the fried potatoes.
Cook Southern Fried Breakfast Potatoes Like This
Step 1: Prep the Potatoes
Begin by placing the peeled and cubed potatoes into a large pot. Fill the pot with 8 cups of water and add 1 teaspoon of baking soda. This will help to create a fluffy texture once fried. Bring the water to a boil and cook the potatoes for about 10-15 minutes, or until they are just tender but not falling apart.
Step 2: Drain and Cool
Once the potatoes are cooked, drain them using a slotted spoon and let them cool on a paper towel. This helps to remove excess moisture, ensuring they fry up crispy.
Step 3: Heat the Oil
In a deep fryer or heavy skillet, heat 4 cups of peanut oil or vegetable oil over medium-high heat. You want the oil to be hot enough that a drop of water sizzles when it hits the surface.
Step 4: Fry the Potatoes
Carefully add the cooled potatoes to the hot oil in batches. Fry them for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried potatoes to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
Step 5: Prepare the Dipping Sauce
In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of mayonnaise, 2 teaspoons of minced garlic, 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon of sea salt, 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper, ½ cup of tomato paste, 2 teaspoons of sherry vinegar, and 1 teaspoon of lemon juice. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve the Southern Fried Breakfast Potatoes hot, sprinkled with a bit of salt to finish, and accompanied by the flavorful dipping sauce. They are perfect for sharing with family and friends over a leisurely breakfast.
Low-Carb/Keto Alternatives
If you’re looking for low-carb or keto alternatives to traditional potatoes, consider these options:
- Cauliflower: Cut into small florets and follow the same boiling and frying method for a similar texture.
- Radishes: When roasted, they take on a potato-like quality and can be a great substitute.
- Turnips: These can be cubed and prepared in the same way as potatoes for a lower-carb option.
Easy-to-Miss Gotchas
When making Southern Fried Breakfast Potatoes, keep these tips in mind:
- Don’t overcrowd the frying pan; this can cause the temperature of the oil to drop, resulting in soggy potatoes.
- Make sure to let the potatoes cool adequately after boiling. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect crispy exterior.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste; if you prefer less heat, reduce the cayenne pepper.
- Always use a thermometer to check the oil temperature if you’re unsure. The ideal frying temperature is around 350°F (175°C).
Shelf Life & Storage
These Southern Fried Breakfast Potatoes are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, here’s how to store them:
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven or an air fryer for the best results, as this will help to regain some crispiness.
- Avoid microwaving, as this can make them soggy.
FAQ
Can I use other types of potatoes for this recipe?
Absolutely! While Russet potatoes are perfect for frying due to their starch content, you can also use Yukon Gold or red potatoes. Just be aware that the texture may vary slightly.
What can I serve with Southern Fried Breakfast Potatoes?
These potatoes pair wonderfully with scrambled eggs, bacon, sausage, or even as a side for dishes like Crispy Oven Fried Chicken With Country Gravy No Alcohol. They also work great in a breakfast burrito!
How can I make this dish spicier?
If you’re looking for more heat, consider adding diced jalapeños to the frying oil or increasing the amount of cayenne pepper in the dipping sauce.
Can I prepare the potatoes ahead of time?
Yes! You can boil and cool the potatoes a day in advance. Just store them in the refrigerator and fry them in the morning for a quick and delicious breakfast.
Wrap-Up
In the world of breakfast, Southern Fried Breakfast Potatoes stand out for their crispy texture and rich flavors. They are not just a side dish; they are a celebration of comfort food that brings warmth to the table. With the right ingredients and a little care, you can create a dish that will delight your family and friends. Don’t forget to experiment with the dipping sauce, and enjoy the delightful crunch of these potatoes as a perfect start to your day!
Southern Fried Breakfast Potatoes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by placing the peeled and cubed potatoes into a large pot. Fill the pot with 8 cups of water and add 1 teaspoon of baking soda. Bring the water to a boil and cook the potatoes for about 10-15 minutes, or until they are just tender but not falling apart.
- Once the potatoes are cooked, drain them using a slotted spoon and let them cool on a paper towel.
- In a deep fryer or heavy skillet, heat 4 cups of peanut oil or vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
- Carefully add the cooled potatoes to the hot oil in batches. Fry them for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried potatoes to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
- In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of mayonnaise, 2 teaspoons of minced garlic, 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon of sea salt, 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper, ½ cup of tomato paste, 2 teaspoons of sherry vinegar, and 1 teaspoon of lemon juice. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
- Serve the Southern Fried Breakfast Potatoes hot, sprinkled with a bit of salt to finish, and accompanied by the flavorful dipping sauce.
Notes
- Don’t overcrowd the frying pan to keep oil temperature consistent.
- Let the potatoes cool adequately after boiling for extra crispiness.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, especially if you prefer less heat.
