Pan-Fried Potatoes and Onions Hash

Pan-Fried Potatoes and Onions Hash is a classic comfort food dish that is simple to prepare yet packed with flavor. This recipe features crispy, golden potatoes paired with sweet, caramelized onions for a savory and satisfying meal that can be enjoyed at any time of day. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a quick weeknight dinner, this dish is versatile and easy to make.

Why You’ll Love Pan-Fried Potatoes and Onions Hash

• Comforting and Hearty: Crispy potatoes combined with tender, caramelized onions make for a comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in less than 30 minutes, making it a perfect choice for a busy day or when you’re craving something simple yet flavorful.
• Customizable: You can add your favorite herbs, spices, or protein to make this dish your own. Whether you like it spicy or with extra veggies, it’s incredibly versatile.

Ingredients

For Pan-Fried Potatoes and Onions Hash, you’ll need:

• 4 medium-sized potatoes (Yukon gold or Russet work well)
• 1 large onion, sliced thinly (yellow or white onion is preferred)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil (or vegetable oil)
• 2 tablespoons butter (for extra flavor)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
• Fresh herbs (such as parsley or thyme, for garnish)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
• Optional add-ins: Bell peppers, bacon, sausage, or cheese (for variations)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Potatoes

Peel and dice the potatoes into small cubes (about 1/2-inch). Rinse them well to remove any excess starch, which will help them crisp up better during cooking.

2. Parboil the Potatoes (Optional, but recommended for crispy results)

To ensure that the potatoes cook evenly and get crispy, place them in a pot of cold water. Bring to a boil and cook for 5-7 minutes until they are just slightly tender but not fully cooked. Drain and set aside.

3. Cook the Onions

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and sauté for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are golden and caramelized. Remove the onions from the skillet and set aside.

4. Fry the Potatoes

In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the parboiled potatoes to the pan in a single layer. Let them cook undisturbed for 5-7 minutes to allow the bottoms to crisp up. Then flip the potatoes and cook for another 5-7 minutes until they are golden and crispy on all sides.

5. Add Garlic and Seasonings

Once the potatoes are crispy and golden, add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Season the potatoes with salt, pepper, paprika, and dried oregano (if using). Stir to combine.

6. Combine the Onions and Serve

Return the caramelized onions to the skillet with the potatoes and toss everything together. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to heat everything through.

7. Garnish and Serve

Garnish the pan-fried potatoes and onions hash with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme. Serve immediately, either as a side dish or topped with a fried egg for a complete meal.

Nutrition Facts (per serving, assuming 4 servings)

• Calories: 220 kcal
• Total Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Cholesterol: 10mg
• Sodium: 250mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 29g
• Dietary Fiber: 3g
• Sugars: 2g
• Protein: 3g

Tips for Making Perfect Pan-Fried Potatoes and Onions Hash

• Use the Right Potatoes: Yukon Gold potatoes are the best for this dish because of their creamy texture and ability to hold up when frying. However, Russet potatoes also work well if you prefer a fluffier texture inside.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When frying the potatoes, make sure the skillet is large enough so that the potatoes can cook in a single layer. Overcrowding the pan will result in soggy potatoes rather than crispy ones.
• Flavor Variations:
  • Add a dash of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes for a spicy kick.
  • For a smoky flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika.
  • For a heartier meal, add cooked sausage, crumbled bacon, or even a sprinkle of cheese to the hash.
• Crispier Potatoes: If you want your potatoes even crispier, you can roast them in the oven for an additional 10 minutes after frying.

How to Serve Pan-Fried Potatoes and Onions Hash

This dish is incredibly versatile, and you can serve it in a variety of ways:

• For Breakfast or Brunch: Top with a fried egg or poached egg for a classic breakfast combination.
• As a Side Dish: Pair with grilled meat, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
• Toppings: You can top the hash with sour cream, hot sauce, or your favorite salsa for added flavor.
• As a Meal: Add cooked bacon, sausage, or even roasted vegetables to make the hash a more substantial dish.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I make this hash ahead of time?
A1: Yes, you can cook the potatoes and onions ahead of time and store them in the fridge. Reheat them in a skillet with a little bit of oil or butter when you’re ready to serve.

Q2: Can I use frozen potatoes for this recipe?
A2: While fresh potatoes yield the best results, you can use frozen diced potatoes if you’re in a pinch. Just make sure to thaw them and pat them dry before frying to avoid sogginess.

Q3: How do I make the potatoes extra crispy?
A3: For extra crispy potatoes, ensure they are patted dry after parboiling, use enough oil in the pan, and don’t overcrowd the skillet. Also, let the potatoes cook undisturbed for a few minutes before flipping.

Q4: Can I add vegetables to this hash?
A4: Yes! Bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach can all be added to the hash for added flavor and texture. Just sauté them with the onions or mix them in during the last few minutes of cooking.

Q5: Can I make this hash without oil?
A5: Yes, you can make this hash without oil, but the potatoes won’t get as crispy. You can try using a non-stick skillet or cooking spray to reduce the amount of oil.

Q6: What is the best type of onion to use?
A6: Yellow onions are the best choice for caramelizing in this dish because of their natural sweetness, but you can use white or red onions if you prefer.

Q7: Can I add protein to this hash?
A7: Absolutely! You can add scrambled tofu, vegan sausage, or even cooked bacon or sausage to make the hash more filling and hearty.

Q8: How can I make this dish spicier?
A8: You can add red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or even a dash of hot sauce to bring some heat to the dish.

Q9: How do I keep the hash warm while cooking?
A9: If you’re making multiple batches, keep the hash warm in a low oven (around 200°F/93°C) or cover it loosely with foil while you cook the rest.

Q10: Can I serve this dish with a dipping sauce?
A10: Yes! A garlic aioli, hot sauce, or even a dollop of sour cream would be delicious alongside this hash.

Conclusion

Pan-Fried Potatoes and Onions Hash is a classic, comforting dish that brings together crispy potatoes and sweet, caramelized onions for a hearty, flavorful meal. Whether served as a side or topped with a fried egg for breakfast, it’s easy to make and perfect for any time of day. You can customize it with your favorite add-ins and enjoy a satisfying dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table!

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