Who knew that a humble combination of potatoes and eggs could transform into an irresistible treat? This recipe for Crispy Herbed Potato Snacks is a testament to the power of simple ingredients, creating a dish that’s perfect for snacking, entertaining, or even as a side dish. It’s an easy and cost-effective way to make something truly delicious that everyone will love.
Ingredients:
- 2 large potatoes (approximately 500 grams)
- 2 pinches of salt
- 1 teaspoon of paprika
- A dash of black pepper
- Chopped parsley, to taste
- 2 tablespoons of cornstarch (or potato starch)
- 1 egg
- Breadcrumbs for coating
Instructions:
- Prepare the Potatoes: Wash and peel the potatoes. Cut them into sticks or wedges, depending on your preference for snack size.
- Cook the Potatoes: Boil the potatoes in salted water just until fork-tender. Be careful not to overcook them to maintain their shape. Drain and let them cool slightly.
- Season: Mix the salt, paprika, black pepper, and chopped parsley in a small bowl. Toss the cooled potatoes in this seasoning mix to coat them evenly.
- Coat with Cornstarch: Lightly dust the seasoned potatoes with cornstarch to prepare them for frying.
- Prepare for Frying: Beat the egg in a separate bowl. Dip each potato piece in the egg, then press into breadcrumbs, ensuring an even coat.
- Fry: Heat oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat. Fry the breaded potato pieces until golden brown and crispy on all sides. Do this in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
- Drain: Place the fried potatoes on a plate lined with paper towels to remove excess oil.
Tips for Perfect Crispy Potatoes:
- Dry Potatoes Thoroughly: After boiling, ensure that the potatoes are completely dry before seasoning and coating. This helps prevent steaming when frying, which is crucial for achieving a crispy texture.
- Optimal Frying Temperature: Maintain the oil temperature at around 350°F (175°C) to ensure that the potatoes cook evenly and become crispy. A kitchen thermometer can be a useful tool to monitor this.
- Avoid Overcrowding: When frying, do not overcrowd the pan. Crowding can lower the oil’s temperature, leading to soggy potatoes instead of crispy ones. Fry in batches if necessary.
- Proper Draining: After frying, draining the potatoes on paper towels helps to remove excess oil, which enhances their crispiness and makes them lighter and more enjoyable.
- Season Immediately: Season the potatoes with additional salt or other seasonings right after frying while they are still hot. This helps the seasonings stick better and enhances the overall flavor.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve these crispy herbed potato snacks as part of a casual home movie night or as a tasty appetizer during gatherings. They pair excellently with various dips such as ketchup, spicy mayo, or a garlic yogurt sauce for added flavor.
- For a Hearty Meal: Combine the snacks with a protein-rich side like a grilled chicken breast or a piece of fish to make a balanced meal.
- As a Party Platter: Serve alongside other finger foods and small bites on a platter for social events or family gatherings.
Nutrition Information:
Each serving of these potato snacks is a good source of vitamins C and B6, thanks to the potatoes, which are naturally rich in these nutrients. The eggs provide protein and selenium, while the use of herbs and spices like paprika and black pepper can offer minor anti-inflammatory benefits.
- Caloric Information: Approximately 200-250 calories per serving, depending on the size of the servings and the exact preparation methods.
- Fat Content: Varied based on the amount of oil used for frying and the choice of cheese, with an estimate of 10-15 grams per serving.
- Dietary Fiber: About 2-3 grams per serving, contributing to digestive health.
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Enjoy crafting this simple yet satisfying dish that showcases the versatility and delightful flavors of potatoes enhanced with herbs and spices!