The trick to hash brown potatoes is the same as for french fries. The potatoes must be dry when they hit the pan, otherside the surface starch absorbs the water, not sealing the surface, allowing the interior to absorb the grease. Dry the grated potatoes very well using a kitchen towel. Then, don't even try to move the potatoes until the bottom is well browned, to avoid sticking. Russet, or high starch, potatoes make the best hash browns.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 lb. russet potatoes, peeled
- 1/2 tsp. garlic salt
- 1/8 tsp. white pepper
- 2 Tbsp. butter
- 1 Tbsp. olive oil
- 3 Tbsp. grated onion
Preparation:
Peel potatoes and grate into a large bowl. Dry potatoes thoroughly by squeezing in a kitchen towel. You should have about 1-1/2 cups grated potatoes, loosely packed into measuring cups. Toss with garlic salt and pepper.
Place half the butter and half the olive oil in a heavy large skillet and heat until sizzling. Add the onion and cook for a few seconds over high heat. When fragrant, add all of the potatoes and pack down with a spatula.
Reduce heat to medium and cook for 7 minutes. Then flip the hash browns onto a plate; add remaining butter and olive oil to pan. Slide the hash brown cake back into the pan, uncooked side down, and cook for about 5-6 minutes longer, until the bottom is crisp and golden brown. Serve immediately. 4-6 servings
