Main menu

Edit post

FRIED POTATOES AND ONIONS

Carly
(0)

Restaurant-Worthy at Home: Crispy Smashed Potatoes with Buttery Onions

FRIED POTATOES AND ONIONS

These crispy smashed potatoes with caramelized onions are a revelation! They elevate your side dish game with a delightful textural contrast and burst of flavor. Imagine fluffy, tender potato interiors that transform into a beautifully crisped and golden brown exterior. Each bite is a symphony of textures, complemented by the sweetness and depth of flavor from the caramelized onions. This simple yet impressive dish is sure to become a star on your dinner table.

Why These Crispy Smashed Potatoes Are a Must-Try:

  • Simple with Stunning Results: Don't be fooled by the restaurant-worthy title! This recipe is surprisingly easy to make. With readily available ingredients and clear instructions, you can achieve a show-stopping side dish in no time.
  • A Textural Delight: The beauty lies in the captivating contrast. The fluffy, tender potato interiors melt in your mouth, while the exteriors boast a satisfying crispness and golden-brown perfection.
  • The Sweet Onion Magic: The caramelized onions add a touch of sweetness that perfectly complements the savory potatoes. They also bring a welcome depth of flavor, taking this dish to a whole new level.

Ingredients for Your Crispy Smashed Potato Adventure:

  • The Crispy Base:
    • Enough peanut oil to generously coat the bottom of a pan (about 1/4 cup) - for achieving maximum crispness
    • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter - adds richness and buttery flavor
  • The Star of the Show:
    • 1 pound Idaho Russet or Red potatoes (red potatoes are recommended for their creamier texture) - the base for your textural masterpiece
  • Flavor Boosters:
    • Water - for soaking the potatoes
    • Salt - enhances overall flavor and promotes crispy exteriors
    • ½ medium sweet onion, like a Vidalia (diced) - for caramelized sweetness
    • Freshly ground black pepper - for a touch of heat
  • Optional Garnishes:
    • Paprika - a sprinkle of smokiness
    • Fresh basil leaves - a touch of freshness


Step-by-Step Guide to Your Crispy Potato Perfection:

  1. Heating Up for Success: Get your pan ready! Place your cast iron skillet over medium heat (slightly higher for electric stoves). Add the peanut oil and butter. Let the mixture heat up until the oil shimmers on the surface. Patience is key here – avoid letting it smoke. If it does, take the pan off the heat and let it cool slightly.
  2. Preparing the Potato Stars: While the pan heats up, wash and cut your potatoes into evenly sized pieces. As you cut them, place them in a large bowl filled with cold water and salt. Soaking helps remove excess starch, a crucial step for achieving crispy exteriors. Don't forget to chop your sweet onion into larger pieces compared to the potatoes.
  3. The Importance of Drying: After 5 minutes, drain the potato and water mixture thoroughly. Pat the potatoes dry with paper towels – any excess moisture will hinder crispness.
  4. Sizzle and Sear: Once the oil is hot and shimmering, carefully add the potatoes and onions to the pan. Avoid overcrowding – if necessary, cook them in batches to ensure they lay flat in a single layer. Let them cook undisturbed for about 4 minutes on one side, allowing for even browning.
  5. The Flip Side of Perfection: Using a spatula, gently flip the potatoes and onions. Cook for another 2-4 minutes on the other side, or until they reach a beautiful golden brown and crispy state.
  6. Seasoning and Serving: Transfer the cooked potatoes and onions to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Immediately season them generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to lock in the flavors.
  7. The Grand Finale (Optional): For an extra touch of visual appeal and flavor, sprinkle your crispy smashed potatoes with paprika and garnish them with fresh basil leaves. Serve them hot and enjoy the delightful combination of textures and flavors!

Tips:

  • Richer Flavor Boost: If you want to take the flavor profile up a notch, use browned butter instead of regular butter.
  • Leftovers Reimagined: Leftover potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a skillet or oven until warmed through and crispy for a second chance at deliciousness.
  • Get Creative with Garnishes: Feel free to experiment with different herbs for garnishing! Chopped chives or parsley would also be lovely additions.

Comments

Post a Comment