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How to Make Hash Browns: A Classic British Recipe

Hash browns are a beloved breakfast staple, known for their crispy exterior and soft, fluffy interior. These potato cakes are a fantastic way to start the day and can be enjoyed on their own, as a side dish, or as part of a traditional full English breakfast. Here’s how to make delicious hash browns from scratch using simple ingredients.

Ingredients

• 2 large potatoes (e.g., Maris Piper or King Edward)
• 1 medium onion (optional)
• 1 large egg (optional, for binding)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• A splash of oil or melted butter for frying
• Fresh herbs (e.g., chives or parsley, optional)

Equipment

• A grater or food processor
• A clean tea towel or cheesecloth
• A large mixing bowl
• A frying pan
• Variety of spatulas

Instructions

1. Prepare the Potatoes
   Begin by peeling the potatoes. Use a box grater or food processor to grate the potatoes into fine shreds. If you prefer, you can also use a mandoline slicer for a different texture.

2. Remove Excess Moisture
   Once the potatoes are grated, place them in a clean tea towel or cheesecloth. Gather the corners of the cloth and twist to form a pouch. Squeeze firmly to remove as much moisture as possible; this step is crucial for achieving crispy hash browns.

3. Add Flavour
   If you’re using onion, grate it separately and mix it into the potatoes. Onions add a lovely sweetness and depth of flavour to the hash browns. If desired, you can add a beaten egg at this stage for binding, along with salt, pepper, and any fresh herbs.

4. Shape the Hash Browns
   Take small handfuls of the potato mixture and form them into flat patties, approximately 1-2 cm thick. Make sure they are compact so they hold together while cooking.

5. Heat the Pan
   Pour a splash of oil or melted butter into a frying pan and heat over medium-high heat. You want a good amount of oil to create a crispy base, so don’t be shy!

6. Fry the Hash Browns
   Carefully place the hash brown patties in the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy. Use a spatula to flip them gently to avoid breaking.

7. Drain Excess Oil
   Once cooked, transfer the hash browns to a plate lined with kitchen paper to drain any excess oil. This will help keep them crispy.

8. Serve and Enjoy
   Hash browns are best enjoyed straight away while they’re still hot and crispy. Serve them alongside fried eggs, baked beans, sausages, or grilled tomatoes for a hearty breakfast, or simply enjoy them on their own with a dollop of ketchup or a sprinkle of vinegar.

Tips for Perfect Hash Browns

• Use Starchy Potatoes: Varieties like Maris Piper or Russet are ideal because they contain more starch, contributing to a fluffier texture.
• Avoid Soaking: While some recipes suggest soaking the grated potatoes in water to reduce starch, it’s counterproductive for hash browns as you want that starch to help bind them together.
• Experiment with Flavours: Feel free to add cheese, spices, or different herbs to the mixture to create your own twist on this classic dish.

Hash browns are a versatile and satisfying addition to your breakfast repertoire. With a little practice, you’ll have the perfect crispy hash browns to brighten up your mornings. Happy cooking!