Fried potatoes with onions is a classic, comforting dish that’s easy to prepare and full of flavor. The combination of crispy golden potatoes and caramelized onions makes this recipe perfect as a side dish or even as a main course. Whether you're looking for a hearty breakfast, a snack, or a side for your dinner, these fried potatoes will hit the spot every time
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Peel the potatoes (or leave the skin on if you prefer) and cut them into thin slices or small cubes, depending on your preference. Rinse the potato slices in cold water to remove excess starch. This helps the potatoes crisp up nicely.
Pat the potatoes dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towel to ensure they fry properly without getting soggy.
Step 2: Caramelize the Onions
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are soft and golden brown, about 8-10 minutes. If the onions start browning too quickly, reduce the heat to prevent burning.
Once the onions are caramelized, remove them from the skillet and set them aside.
Step 3: Fry the Potatoes
In the same skillet, add 2 more tablespoons of olive oil or butter and increase the heat to medium-high. Once the oil is hot, add the potato slices in a single layer, making sure they don’t overlap too much. Fry the potatoes without stirring for about 5 minutes, allowing them to develop a golden crust.
Season the potatoes with salt, pepper, and paprika if using. Toss or stir the potatoes gently to ensure even cooking, and continue frying until they are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, about 10-15 more minutes.
Step 4: Combine Potatoes and Onions
Once the potatoes are golden and crispy, reduce the heat to low and stir the caramelized onions back into the skillet. Gently mix the onions and potatoes until they are well combined and heated through.
Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Transfer the fried potatoes with onions to a serving plate. If you like, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
Serve hot and enjoy!
Bonus Tips:
Potato Varieties: For the crispiest results, use Yukon gold or russet potatoes. These varieties have the right balance of starch and moisture that make them ideal for frying.
Add Spices: Feel free to experiment with different spices like garlic powder, smoked paprika, or chili flakes to give the potatoes an extra kick.
Pre-Cook the Potatoes: If you want to speed up the process, you can parboil the potato slices for 5-6 minutes before frying. This ensures the potatoes cook through without having to fry them for too long.
Use Cast Iron: A cast-iron skillet helps achieve that perfect crispy texture due to its even heat distribution. If you have one, it’s the best tool for this dish.
Make It a Meal: Add cooked bacon, sausage, or diced ham to the skillet along with the onions for a more substantial dish.
Conclusion:
Fried potatoes with onions is a timeless dish that is as versatile as it is delicious. Whether served alongside breakfast eggs or as a side to a hearty dinner, this simple recipe is packed with flavor and satisfaction. The crispy texture of the potatoes combined with the sweetness of caramelized onions creates a comfort food that’s sure to become a staple in your home. Plus, with minimal ingredients and easy preparation, it’s a perfect go-to recipe whenever you’re craving something warm, savory, and satisfying.