Hash Brown Recipe

Hash Browns

1. 1

   Prepare potatoes

   Peel the potatoes and grate them on the large holes of a box grater (or pulse in a food processor with the shredding disk). Place the grated potato in a large bowl of cold water and swish to remove excess starch. Let sit 3 minutes.

2. 2

   Dry thoroughly

   Drain the potatoes in a colander, then transfer to a clean kitchen towel or several layers of paper towels. Twist and squeeze firmly to remove as much moisture as possible — this step is critical for crispness. Unwrap and transfer the dried shreds to a dry bowl.

3. 3

   Combine binder

   Add the grated onion, flour, egg, salt and pepper to the dried potato shreds. Mix gently with your hands or a fork until combined but do not overwork; you want the mixture to hold together when pressed but not be a paste.

4. 4

   Portion

   Divide the potato mixture into 4 equal portions (for larger patties) or 6 for smaller ones. Using lightly oiled hands, shape each portion into a compact patty about 1/2-inch thick, pressing the edges so they hold together.

5. 5

   Heat pan

   Place a large nonstick or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add the vegetable oil and heat until shimmering but not smoking (about 2 minutes).

6. 6

   Fry first side

   Carefully add the patties to the hot skillet without overcrowding (work in batches if needed). Cook undisturbed until the underside is deep golden brown and releases easily, about 4–5 minutes.

7. 7

   Flip and finish

   Add the butter to the pan and tilt to melt; using a spatula, flip each patty and cook the second side until golden and cooked through, another 3–4 minutes. If patties brown too quickly, reduce heat to medium.

8. 8

   Drain and keep warm

   Transfer cooked hash browns to a wire rack set over a baking sheet or to a plate lined with paper towels to drain briefly. Keep warm in a 200°F (95°C) oven while you finish remaining batches.

9. 9

   Serve

   Sprinkle with chopped parsley if using and serve immediately with ketchup or hot sauce to taste.