Fried Potatoes and Onions: A Simple, Flavorful Side Dish
This recipe for fried potatoes and onions is a classic for a reason. It's incredibly simple to make, requiring minimal ingredients and effort, yet delivers a depth of flavor that elevates any meal. Whether you're looking for a perfect accompaniment to steak, burgers, or simply a satisfying side dish on its own, this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced into roughly 1-inch cubes (Russet or Yukon Gold work best)
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced (Yellow or white onion are ideal)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional, for a smoky flavor)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or your preferred cooking oil)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Preparing the Potatoes and Onions:
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Wash and Prepare: Begin by thoroughly washing the potatoes and onions. Peel the potatoes and dice them into approximately 1-inch cubes. Thinly slice the onion. The more even the size of your potato cubes, the more evenly they'll cook.
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Dredge in Flour: In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, pepper, and paprika (if using). Add the diced potatoes and sliced onions, tossing gently until all the pieces are evenly coated in the flour mixture. This step helps to create a crispy exterior.
Frying the Potatoes and Onions:
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Heat the Oil: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the potatoes and onions; otherwise, they'll steam instead of fry.
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Fry in Batches: To ensure even cooking and browning, it's best to fry the potatoes and onions in batches. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy potatoes. Fry for about 5-7 minutes per batch, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are golden brown and crispy.
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Drain Excess Oil: Once all the potatoes and onions are cooked, remove them from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve Immediately: Fried potatoes and onions are best enjoyed immediately after cooking, while they're still hot and crispy.
- Perfect Pairings: This side dish is incredibly versatile. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats, burgers, sausages, or even eggs. It's also a wonderful addition to a hearty breakfast.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick.
- Herbs and Spices: Experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor. Garlic powder, onion powder, or dried herbs like thyme or rosemary would be delicious additions.
Tips for Extra Crispy Potatoes:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: This is crucial for achieving crispy potatoes. Fry in smaller batches to ensure the oil temperature remains high.
- Use high-quality oil: A good quality oil with a high smoke point will help prevent burning and deliver a better flavor.
- Pat dry the potatoes: Before dredging in flour, pat the potatoes dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. This will further help to achieve a crispy texture.
This simple recipe is a great starting point. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and seasonings to create your own perfect version of fried potatoes and onions. Enjoy!
