Here’s a step-by-step guide to making delicious, crispy hash browns at home:

Ingredients:

  • 2 large potatoes (Russet potatoes work well)
  • 2 tablespoons of butter or oil (for frying)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

  1. Peel the Potatoes: Start by peeling your potatoes, as the skin can interfere with achieving a uniform texture.
  2. Grate the Potatoes: Use a grater with large holes to shred the potatoes. A food processor with a shredding attachment can also work if you’re making a large batch.

Step 2: Remove Excess Moisture

  1. Rinse and Drain: Place the grated potatoes in a bowl and cover them with cold water. Let them sit for a few minutes, as this helps remove some of the excess starch, which helps them get crispier.
  2. Squeeze Dry: Drain the water from the potatoes, then transfer them to a clean kitchen towel or paper towel. Wrap and squeeze the potatoes well to remove as much moisture as possible. This step is crucial for achieving crispy hash browns.

Step 3: Season the Potatoes

  1. Seasoning: Put the grated potatoes in a dry bowl. Add salt and black pepper to taste, and mix well to evenly distribute the seasoning.

Step 4: Heat the Pan and Add Fat

  1. Choose Your Fat: Use butter for a richer flavor or oil for a more neutral taste.
  2. Heat the Pan: Place a large non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat. Add about 1 tablespoon of butter or oil and let it melt and heat up until it’s shimmering but not smoking.

Step 5: Cook the Hash Browns

  1. Add Potatoes to Pan: Spread the grated potatoes in an even layer in the pan. Flatten them down with a spatula to create a compact layer.
  2. Cook Undisturbed: Let the potatoes cook undisturbed for 4-5 minutes, until the bottom layer is golden brown and crispy.
  3. Flip Carefully: Use a spatula to flip the hash browns, or if it’s easier, divide them into smaller portions before flipping. Cook the other side for another 4-5 minutes or until crispy and golden.

Step 6: Serve

  1. Drain Excess Oil: Place the cooked hash browns on a paper towel-lined plate to remove any excess oil.
  2. Serve Hot: Enjoy your hash browns immediately, as they’re best when hot and crispy.

Tips for Best Results:

  • Avoid crowding the pan: This ensures even cooking and helps the hash browns stay crispy.
  • Experiment with toppings: Serve with cheese, scallions, or sour cream for added flavor.

This method will give you golden, crispy hash browns with a fluffy interior!