Introduction
If you’re a fan of crispy, golden hash browns, this recipe will blow you away. Made with fresh potatoes and a delicious cheese sauce, these hash browns are a perfect breakfast or snack option that’s even better than what you’ll find at McDonald’s. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!
Ingredients
For the Hash Browns:
- 3 potatoes (800g / 28 oz)
- 1 onion
- 4 tbsp starch
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Olive oil for frying
For the Cheese Sauce:
- 1/2 tbsp flour (4g)
- 1 tbsp butter (15g)
- 1 glass of milk (250ml / 8.45 fl. oz)
- 40g cheese (1.4 oz)
Number of Servings
This recipe makes approximately 6 servings.
Nutritional Information
Per serving:
- Calories: 210
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Total Carbohydrate: 25g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 6g
Preparation Method
Step 1: Preparing the Potatoes and Onion
- Peel and Grate the Potatoes: Peel the potatoes and grate them. Place the grated potatoes in a bowl of water to prevent them from browning.
- Drain and Squeeze: Drain the water from the grated potatoes and squeeze them well to remove excess moisture.
- Grate the Onion: Grate the onion and add it to the potatoes.
Step 2: Mixing the Ingredients
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated potatoes and onion. Add 4 tablespoons of starch, salt, and black pepper to taste. Mix well to ensure the starch and seasoning are evenly distributed.
Step 3: Shaping and Frying the Hash Browns
- Divide and Shape: Divide the potato mixture into portions and shape them into flat, round patties.
- Preheat Oil: Heat olive oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat.
- Fry the Hash Browns: Place the potato patties in the hot oil and fry them on both sides for about 10 minutes each, turning them several times to ensure even cooking. Fry until they are golden brown and crispy.
Step 4: Preparing the Cheese Sauce
- Make the Roux: In a small saucepan, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add 1/2 tablespoon of flour and stir constantly to form a roux.
- Add Milk: Gradually pour in 1 glass of milk (250 ml) while stirring continuously to prevent lumps from forming.
- Add Cheese: Once the sauce has thickened, add the grated cheese and stir until it is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Season: Season the cheese sauce with a little salt and black pepper to taste.
Step 5: Serving
- Serve Hot: Serve the crispy hash browns hot, drizzled with the delicious cheese sauce. Enjoy the delightful combination of crispy potatoes and creamy cheese!
Tips for Perfect Hash Browns
- Removing Moisture: Ensure you squeeze out as much moisture as possible from the grated potatoes to achieve the crispiest hash browns.
- Even Cooking: Fry the hash browns in a single layer without overcrowding the pan for even cooking.
- Cheese Sauce Variations: You can use different types of cheese such as cheddar, mozzarella, or gouda for the cheese sauce to suit your taste.
Conclusion
These homemade hash browns are a fantastic alternative to fast-food options, offering a healthier and more delicious treat. With a simple preparation process and ingredients you likely already have at home, this recipe is a must-try. Enjoy your crispy hash browns with a rich cheese sauce for a satisfying meal or snack!