Hash browns are a classic breakfast dish loved by many around the world. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these golden brown delights are the perfect way to start your day. While traditionally made in a skillet, you can also make hash browns in an air fryer. In this article, we will share a foolproof recipe on how to make hash browns from potatoes in an air fryer. So, get ready to enjoy a delicious and healthier version of this beloved breakfast favorite.
Gathering the Ingredients
To make hash browns in an air fryer, you will need a few simple ingredients. Start by gathering two large potatoes, preferably russet potatoes, which are known for their starchy texture. You will also need one small onion, one egg, two tablespoons of all-purpose flour, half a teaspoon of garlic powder, half a teaspoon of paprika, salt, and pepper to taste. These ingredients are readily available in most kitchens, making this recipe convenient and budget-friendly.
Preparing the Potatoes
The first step in making hash browns is to prepare the potatoes. Begin by peeling the potatoes and then grating them using a box grater or a food processor fitted with the grating disc. Once grated, transfer the potatoes to a colander and rinse them under cold water to remove excess starch. This step is essential to prevent the potatoes from clumping together during cooking.
Squeezing out Excess Moisture
After rinsing the grated potatoes, you need to squeeze out any excess moisture. This step is crucial for achieving crispy hash browns. Place the grated potatoes in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze firmly until most of the liquid is removed. You will be amazed by how much moisture can be extracted.
Chopping the Onion
Next, it’s time to chop the small onion. Finely dice the onion into small pieces. If you are not a fan of onions, you can skip this ingredient, but they do add a delightful flavor and a touch of sweetness to the hash browns.
Mixing the Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the grated and squeezed potatoes, diced onions, one beaten egg, two tablespoons of all-purpose flour, half a teaspoon of garlic powder, half a teaspoon of paprika, and salt and pepper to taste. Mix all the ingredients until well combined. The flour helps bind the mixture together, while the garlic powder and paprika enhance the flavor profile.
Shaping the Hash Browns
To shape the hash browns, take a handful of the mixture and shape it into a round patty. Repeat this process until all the mixture has been used. The size of the patties can vary depending on your preference. You can make them smaller for bite-sized hash browns or larger for a more substantial meal.
Preheating and Preparing the Air Fryer
Before cooking, it is important to preheat the air fryer properly. Set the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and allow it to preheat for a few minutes. Meanwhile, lightly grease the air fryer basket with cooking spray or a small amount of oil to prevent the hash browns from sticking.
Cooking the Hash Browns
When the air fryer is preheated and the basket is ready, carefully place the shaped hash brown patties in the basket, ensuring they are not touching or overlapping. Close the air fryer and set the timer for 10 minutes. After the time is up, flip the hash browns using a spatula to ensure even cooking. Cook for an additional 10 minutes, or until the hash browns are golden brown and crispy.
Serving and Enjoying
Once the hash browns are cooked to perfection, remove them from the air fryer and let them cool slightly. Serve them hot and crispy alongside your favorite breakfast items, such as eggs, bacon, or even fresh fruit. These air fryer hash browns are a versatile dish that complements a variety of meals, making them suitable for any time of the day.
Experimenting with Flavors
While the basic hash brown recipe is delicious on its own, you can also experiment with different flavors to suit your taste preferences. Feel free to add shredded cheese, herbs like parsley or chives, diced bell peppers, or even chopped cooked bacon to the mixture before shaping the hash browns. These variations can elevate the taste and add a unique twist to this classic dish.
A Healthier Alternative
One of the significant advantages of making hash browns in an air fryer is that it requires less oil compared to traditional skillet cooking. This cooking method results in lighter and healthier hash browns without compromising on taste or texture. The air fryer ensures that the hash browns become crispy and golden brown, similar to the skillet version, but with far less oil.
Tips for the Perfect Hash Browns
To achieve the best results, consider these tips when making hash browns in an air fryer:
1. Use starchy potatoes like russet potatoes for a fluffier texture.
2. Rinse the grated potatoes under cold water to remove excess starch.
3. Squeeze out as much moisture as possible from the grated potatoes to enhance crispiness.
4. Preheat the air fryer for optimal cooking.
5. Flip the hash browns halfway through their cooking time for even browning.
6. Customize the recipe with additional ingredients to suit your taste.
Conclusion
In conclusion, making hash browns from potatoes in an air fryer is a foolproof recipe that results in delicious and crispy breakfast treats. With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you can enjoy golden brown hash browns without excessive oil or mess. By following this recipe and experimenting with flavors, you can create your own signature version of this beloved breakfast classic. So, give it a try and start your day off right with homemade air fryer hash browns!