Pan-fried potatoes are a simple and tasty dish that can be served as a side dish or a snack. In this article, I’ll share an easy recipe for making pan-fried potatoes that are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
1. Tips To Fry Crispy Potatoes
Choose the right potatoes: Use starchy potatoes such as Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, as they have a higher starch content which helps to create a crispy texture.
Parboiling the potatoes before frying them can help to remove excess starch and create a crispier texture. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the potatoes for about 5-7 minutes, until they are just tender but still firm. Drain them well and pat them dry with a clean towel.
When it comes to frying potatoes, oil is generally a better option than butter. Using oil for frying potatoes will result in a crispy exterior and tender interior.
Overcrowding the skillet can cause the potatoes to steam instead of fry, which can result in a soggy exterior. So make sure there is enough space between the potato pieces for them to fry evenly.
Resist the urge to stir too often: Let the potatoes cook for a few minutes on each side before stirring to allow them to brown and crisp up.
2. Crispy Pan-Fried Potatoes Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 medium-sized potatoes
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional seasonings: paprika, garlic powder, fresh herbs
Instructions
Scrub the potatoes clean and cut them into small, even pieces. You can cut them into thin slices, small cubes, or wedges.
Parboil the potatoes for 5-7 minutes in a pot of boiling salted water. Drain and pat dry with paper towels.
Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the potatoes to the skillet in a single layer, making sure they are not overcrowded. Fry for 5-7 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and crispy.
Use tongs or a spatula to flip the potatoes halfway through frying.
Once the potatoes are cooked, remove them from the skillet with a slotted spoon or mesh strainer and transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
Season with salt, pepper, and any desired seasonings, such as paprika, garlic powder, or fresh herbs. Serve hot as a side dish or a snack.
3. What To Serve With Fried Potatoes
Breakfast: Pan-fried potatoes are a classic breakfast side dish and go well with eggs, bacon, and toast.
Burgers: Serve pan-fried potatoes alongside a juicy burger and coleslaw for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Baked or grilled meats: Fried potatoes are a great side dish to baked or roasted meats such as steak, chicken, or pork.
Fish and chips: Fried potatoes make a great side dish for fish and chips. Serve them alongside battered fish, tartar sauce, and lemon wedges for a classic pub-style meal.
Sandwiches: Serve pan-fried potatoes alongside a sandwich for a hearty and satisfying lunch. Add a side salad, and you have a complete meal.
Vegetarian meals: Pan-fried potatoes are an excellent side dish for vegetarian meals. Serve them alongside roasted vegetables, quinoa, or a salad for a balanced and nutritious meal.
With this easy-to-follow recipe, you can create perfectly crispy and flavorful pan-fried potatoes that will be a hit with your family and friends
