My Pantry Shelf

Home-fried potatoes seems so simple, yet for years they eluded me.  The challenge lies in achieving a crispy browned exterior on the potato without having to use copious amounts of oil.  Starting with raw potatoes, I always found that the outside browned before the inside could cook through.  Since I always used oil rather judiciously, the potatoes would stick to the pan and we would miss out on the flavorful, crispy skin.  After much trial and error, I developed this recipe which results in perfectly seasoned potatoes with just the right amount of crunch, all with only a little bit of oil.

Super Tasty Home Fries start with cooked potato.  You can either boil them briefly or use leftover baked potato.  Either work well.  I used russet potatoes for the picture, but really any type of potato works well. The dish begins on the stove-top and finishes in the oven.  It works best with a cast iron skillet, but any oven safe pan will work.  In a pinch, you can spread out the potatoes on a baking sheet.  Saute the onion with the spices, then add the potato and toss in the oven.  For a cheesy touch, melt cheddar over the top of the potatoes in the final minutes.  These home fries are a staple at our house.  They really are super tasty!

Super Tasty Home Fries

serves 4

1 1/2 pound potatoes, diced (about 4 cups)

1 1/2 tablespoon vegetable oil

1/2 cup diced onion

1 clove garlic, minced

1/2 teaspoon ground cumin

1/2 teaspoon chili powder

1/2 teaspoon paprika

3/4 teaspoon salt

3/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)

2 tablespoons chopped parsley

Ketchup for dipping (optional)

Preheat the oven to 450 degrees.

Put the raw, diced potatoes in a medium-sized pot and cover with water by 1 inch.  Bring to a boil, then add 2 teaspoons of salt and reduce to a simmer.  Cook for 5 minutes and then drain.  Potatoes should be cooked, but still firm.

Heat a heavy-bottomed oven safe skillet over medium heat.  (I like to use a 10-inch cast iron pan for this.)  Heat the oil, then add onion, garlic, spices, and salt.  Stir to coat onions.  Cook for 2 minutes to toast spices.  Add drained potatoes and stir to coat potatoes.

Place skillet in hot oven.  Cook for 15-20 minutes, or until potatoes are browned and onions are soft.  If you are opting for cheesy home fries, sprinkle the grated cheese over the top the last couple of minutes and stick under the broiler to melt.

Toss chopped parsley over the top and serve with ketchup for dipping.

Print this recipe:  Super Tasty Home Fries

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