If you’re a fan of crunchy hash browns and happen to have a potato and an air fryer, you’re in for a treat! Using an air fryer to make hash browns transforms them into a delightful dish with a perfectly crunchy exterior and warm, creamy potato bits inside. It’s everything you want your hash browns to be. Let’s dive into how you can achieve this breakfast favorite right in your kitchen.
Ⅰ.Ingredient Notes
Potatoes: Russet potatoes are ideal for their dry, fluffy texture, which helps achieve a crispy exterior.
Oil: Vegetable oils such as canola, olive, and avocado are all suitable. Refined coconut oil is also an option, should you not mind a hint of coconut flavor.
Seasonings: Keep it classic and versatile with a simple blend of garlic powder, onion powder, sea salt, and black pepper. If you’re using coarse salt, increase the amount to about 3/4 to 1 teaspoon.
Ⅱ.How to Make Hash Browns
1. Prepare the Potatoes:
Wash and Peel: Begin by thoroughly washing your potatoes to eliminate any dirt. Peeling is optional—the skin can add texture and flavor—but if you prefer smoother hash browns, peeling is recommended.
Grating: Use a coarse grater to shred the potatoes. For the best results, grate them directly into a large bowl to catch all the shreds.
Removing Moisture: Transfer the grated potatoes onto a clean kitchen towel. Gather the edges of the towel and twist it to enclose the shreds. Squeeze out as much water as possible by pressing and twisting the towel. This is crucial for achieving the desired crispiness as excess moisture can lead to soggy hash browns.
2. Season the Potatoes:
Mixing Ingredients: Add your choice of oil—approximately two tablespoons of canola, olive, or avocado oil—to the same large bowl. Sprinkle in one teaspoon each of garlic powder and onion powder, along with three-quarters of a teaspoon of sea salt and half a teaspoon of black pepper.
Coating: Toss the dried grated potatoes with the oil and seasonings until everything is well coated. The oil helps the seasonings adhere to the potatoes and encourages them to crisp up in the air fryer.
3. Preheat Your Air Fryer:
Set Temperature: Preheat your air fryer to 390°F (199°C) for about three to five minutes. Preheating helps the hash browns start cooking immediately and uniformly once they hit the basket.
4. Prepare the Air Fryer Basket:
Greasing: Lightly spray the bottom of the air fryer basket with cooking spray, or alternatively, use a pastry brush to apply a light coating of oil. This helps prevent sticking and ensures that the hash browns can be easily flipped and removed.
Lining (Optional): For easier cleanup, consider lining the basket with a round of perforated parchment paper designed for air fryers. Make sure the paper is just the right size to fit the basket without covering the edges, which could hinder air circulation.
5. Cook the Hash Browns:
Arrange the Potatoes: Evenly distribute the seasoned potato shreds in the air fryer basket to ensure uniform cooking. Avoid piling them up; a single, even layer works best for cooking through and achieving an even crisp.
Cooking Time: Close the air fryer and set it to cook for about 15-20 minutes. After the first 7-10 minutes, open the air fryer and use a spatula to carefully flip the hash browns to ensure they brown evenly on both sides.
Check for Doneness: Depending on your air fryer model, you may need a few extra minutes to get them to your preferred level of crispiness. Keep an eye on them towards the end to prevent burning.
Ⅲ.Serving Suggestions
1.Classic Breakfast Combo:
Transform your morning meal into a hearty feast by pairing these crispy hash browns with fried or scrambled eggs and crispy bacon strips. This combination not only offers a satisfying texture contrast but also balances the meal with protein.
2.Brunch Delight:
For a brunch that impresses, serve these hash browns alongside a platter of fresh fruit, smoked salmon, and bagels. Offer cream cheese and capers to complement the salmon. This setup is perfect for a leisurely weekend brunch with family and friends.
3.Sour Cream and Chives:
Top your hash browns with a generous dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of freshly chopped chives or green onions. This addition enhances the dish with a creamy texture and a punch of mild onion flavor.
4.Hot Sauce and Avocado:
For those who like a bit of heat, drizzle your favorite hot sauce over the hash browns. Add sliced avocado for a creamy texture and a rich, buttery flavor that contrasts beautifully with the spice.
Ⅳ.Conclusion
Enjoy the perfect blend of convenience and flavor by making your hash browns in an air fryer. This simple method delivers crispy, delicious results every time, making it a fantastic choice for any meal. Ready to elevate your breakfast or brunch? Try this recipe and savor the crunch!