Home Fries Recipe

Wash, peel, dice

Wash the potatoes well. Peel if you prefer (leave skin on for texture). Cut the potatoes into 1/2-inch dice so pieces are uniform. Transfer diced potatoes to a large bowl of cold water and swish to remove excess starch.

Chop the yellow onion into roughly 1/2-inch pieces and dice the green bell pepper to similar size. Finely chop parsley and slice chives (if using).

Soak the diced potatoes in cold water for 10–15 minutes to remove more starch for crisper home fries. Meanwhile, set a colander in the sink to drain.

Boil or microwave

Drain the potatoes and transfer them to a medium pot. Cover with cold water by 1 inch, add 1/2 tsp salt, bring to a simmer and cook gently until just tender when pierced with the tip of a knife (6–8 minutes). Do not overcook. Alternatively, microwave potatoes in a covered microwave-safe bowl with a tablespoon of water for 4–6 minutes until just tender. Drain thoroughly and spread on a baking sheet to steam-dry for 3–4 minutes — removing surface moisture helps browning.

Heat fat

In a large heavy skillet (cast-iron preferred) over medium-high heat, add 2 tbs vegetable oil and 1 tbs butter. Heat until the oil shimmers and the butter foams but before it browns.

Sauté aromatics

Add the chopped onion and green pepper to the hot pan. Sauté, stirring occasionally, until softened and beginning to brown, about 4–5 minutes.

Fry potatoes

Add the drained, par-cooked potatoes in a single layer as much as possible. Sprinkle the salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes evenly over the potatoes. Let the potatoes cook undisturbed for 3–4 minutes to form a brown crust. Then use a spatula to flip and press some pieces to expose flat surfaces. Continue to cook and turn occasionally until most surfaces are golden brown and crisp, about 8–10 minutes total. Reduce heat to medium if browning too quickly.

Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Stir in chopped parsley and lemon juice (if using) and scatter sliced chives over the potatoes.

Transfer home fries to a warmed serving dish and serve immediately alongside eggs, breakfast meats, or as a side for any meal.