Fried potatoes are a simple and delicious dish that can be prepared in various ways. Here’s a basic recipe for making crispy, golden fried potatoes:
Ingredients:
- 4 medium potatoes (Russet or Yukon Gold work well)
- 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil (or more, depending on your frying method)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional seasonings (garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, parsley, etc.)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Potatoes:
- Wash and peel the potatoes if you prefer. Leaving the skin on is also fine if you like a rustic texture.
- Cut the potatoes into even slices or cubes, depending on how you want them. For crispy fries, cut them into thin strips.
- Place the cut potatoes in a bowl of cold water for about 15 minutes to remove excess starch. This helps make them crispier when fried.
- After soaking, drain the potatoes and pat them dry with paper towels to remove any moisture. This is key to getting crispy fried potatoes.
2. Frying Method:
You can either shallow fry in a pan or deep fry. Here’s the shallow frying method:
- Heat about 2 tablespoons of oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat. You can use a cast-iron skillet for even heat distribution.
- Add the potatoes in a single layer. Don’t overcrowd the pan. You may need to do this in batches.
- Fry the potatoes, turning occasionally, for about 10-15 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
- If you’re making thin fries, you’ll need to turn them more often. If you’re using thicker pieces, make sure they’re cooked through.
3. Seasoning:
- Once the potatoes are crispy and golden, use a slotted spoon to remove them from the pan and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- While they are still hot, sprinkle them with salt and pepper to taste. You can also add optional seasonings like garlic powder, paprika, or fresh herbs for extra flavor.
4. Serving:
- Serve your fried potatoes as a side dish with your favorite dipping sauces, like ketchup, ranch, or aioli. They pair perfectly with grilled meats, eggs, or burgers.
Alternative – Deep Frying:
- If you prefer to deep fry, heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the potatoes in small batches for about 4-5 minutes until golden and crispy.
- Drain on paper towels and season.
Tips:
- For extra crispiness, you can add a tablespoon of cornstarch or flour to the potatoes before frying.
- Experiment with different spices and herbs to customize the flavor.
Enjoy your fried potatoes! Would you like to try a specific variation, like crispy smashed potatoes or garlic butter fried potatoes
