Description

This recipe for Crispy Hash Browns features shredded russet potatoes fried to golden perfection in a skillet with butter and vegetable oil. The key to crispy hash browns lies in squeezing out excess moisture before cooking and frying the potatoes undisturbed until both sides develop a crunchy crust. These classic breakfast potatoes are seasoned simply with salt and pepper and make a deliciously comforting side dish.

Ingredients

Scale

Ingredients

4 large russet potatoes
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Salt, to taste
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

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Instructions

Peel and Grate Potatoes: Begin by peeling the russet potatoes thoroughly. Using a box grater or food processor, grate the potatoes into thin, shredded pieces.
Remove Excess Moisture: Place the grated potatoes into a clean kitchen towel. Twist and squeeze firmly to remove as much moisture as possible; this step is crucial for achieving a crispy texture.
Heat Fat in Skillet: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the vegetable oil and unsalted butter. Heat until the butter is fully melted and the mixture gleams.
Spread Potatoes in Skillet: Add the dried shredded potatoes to the skillet, spreading them evenly into a thin layer. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper according to taste.
Cook First Side: Let the potatoes cook undisturbed for 5 to 7 minutes until the bottom turns golden brown and crisps up nicely.
Flip and Cook Other Side: Using a spatula, carefully flip the hash browns to cook the other side for another 5 to 7 minutes, ensuring it also becomes golden and crispy.
Serve: Once cooked through and crispy on both sides, transfer the hash browns to a serving plate. Adjust seasoning if needed and serve immediately while hot.

Notes

For extra crispiness, you can soak the grated potatoes in cold water for 10 minutes before squeezing out moisture.
Ensure you squeeze out as much water as possible to avoid soggy results.
Use a heavy-bottomed skillet to cook evenly and prevent burning.
If preferred, season with additional herbs or spices such as paprika or garlic powder.