Making fried potatoes, also known as home fries or skillet potatoes, is a simple and delicious side dish that pairs well with breakfast, brunch, or dinner. Here's a basic recipe for making fried potatoes:
Ingredients:
- 4 medium potatoes (such as Russet or Yukon Gold), peeled or unpeeled
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional seasonings: garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried herbs (such as thyme or rosemary), cayenne pepper, etc.
- Optional toppings: chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley or chives), grated cheese, sour cream, ketchup, hot sauce, etc.
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Potatoes: Wash and dry the potatoes thoroughly. If desired, peel the potatoes or leave the skins on for added texture and flavor. Cut the potatoes into small cubes or wedges, about 1/2 inch to 1 inch in size, depending on your preference.
2. Parboil the Potatoes (Optional): To speed up the cooking process and ensure the potatoes are cooked through evenly, you can parboil them before frying. Place the potato cubes or wedges in a pot of boiling salted water and cook for about 5 minutes, until slightly tender but still firm. Drain the potatoes well and pat them dry with paper towels.
3. Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or frying pan, heat the vegetable oil or olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. You want enough oil to coat the bottom of the skillet evenly.
4. Fry the Potatoes: Once the oil is hot, add the potato cubes or wedges to the skillet in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook the potatoes undisturbed for a few minutes, allowing them to brown on one side. Use a spatula to flip the potatoes and continue cooking until golden brown and crispy on all sides, about 10-15 minutes total.
5. Season the Potatoes: Season the fried potatoes generously with salt and pepper, to taste. You can also add any additional seasonings or spices at this point, such as garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried herbs, or cayenne pepper, for extra flavor.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Transfer the fried potatoes to a serving platter or individual plates. Garnish with chopped fresh herbs, grated cheese, sour cream, ketchup, hot sauce, or any other toppings you like. Serve the fried potatoes hot as a delicious side dish or enjoy them on their own as a tasty snack or appetizer.
These homemade fried potatoes are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with flavor. Experiment with different seasonings and toppings to customize them to your taste preferences. Enjoy!