Fried Potatoes and Onions

Fried potatoes and onions are a classic comfort food side dish that’s simple to make and incredibly satisfying. The combination of crispy potatoes, caramelized onions, and bell peppers makes for a flavorful and hearty dish. This recipe will guide you through the steps to achieve the perfect fried potatoes and onions. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients:

• 4 red potatoes
• 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, seeded and chopped
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ¾ teaspoon paprika
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
• ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Wash and Slice Potatoes:
   • Wash the red potatoes thoroughly and slice them into 1/4-inch thick rounds. You can peel the potatoes if you prefer, but leaving the skin on adds texture and nutrients.
2. Chop Vegetables:
   • Chop the onion and bell pepper into small, evenly sized pieces to ensure they cook uniformly.

Step 2: Cook the Potatoes

1. Heat Olive Oil:
   • In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add Potatoes:
   • Once the oil is hot, add the sliced potatoes to the skillet. Spread them out in an even layer and cook for about 5-7 minutes, until the bottoms start to brown.
3. Season Potatoes:
   • Sprinkle the potatoes with 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of paprika, and 1/8 teaspoon of black pepper.
4. Flip and Cook:
   • Flip the potatoes using a spatula, trying to get an even cook on the other side. Cook for another 5-7 minutes until they are golden brown and tender. Remove the potatoes from the skillet and set them aside.

Step 3: Cook Onions and Bell Peppers

1. Add Remaining Olive Oil:
   • In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil.
2. Add Onions and Peppers:
   • Add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the skillet. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the onions are translucent and the bell peppers are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Season Vegetables:
   • Sprinkle the vegetables with the remaining salt, paprika, and black pepper.

Step 4: Combine and Finish

1. Combine Potatoes and Vegetables:
   • Return the cooked potatoes to the skillet with the onions and bell peppers. Gently toss to combine and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through and allow the flavors to meld.
2. Add Fresh Parsley:
   • Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the top and stir to combine.

Step 5: Serve

1. Serve Hot:
   • Serve the fried potatoes and onions hot as a delicious side dish. They pair wonderfully with breakfast dishes, grilled meats, or as a standalone vegetarian option.

Cook’s Notes:

• Potato Varieties: Red potatoes hold their shape well during cooking, but you can also use Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes for this recipe.
• Even Cooking: To ensure even cooking, try to slice the potatoes as uniformly as possible.
• Flavor Boost: Add a clove of minced garlic to the onions and peppers for an extra burst of flavor.

Variations:

Spicy Fried Potatoes and Onions:

• Add 1/2 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño for a spicy kick.

Cheesy Fried Potatoes and Onions:

• Sprinkle 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top just before serving and allow it to melt.

Bacon and Potato Skillet:

• Fry 4 slices of chopped bacon in the skillet first, remove and set aside, then cook the potatoes and vegetables in the bacon fat. Add the bacon back in before serving.

Herb-Infused Potatoes and Onions:

• Add 1 teaspoon of dried thyme or rosemary along with the other seasonings for an aromatic touch.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A: Yes, you can partially prepare this dish ahead. Cook the potatoes and vegetables separately, then combine and reheat in a skillet just before serving.

Q: Can I use other types of potatoes? A: Absolutely! Yukon Gold and Russet potatoes work well too. Just be mindful that Russets might break down a bit more and create a softer texture.

Q: How do I get my potatoes crispy? A: Ensure the skillet and oil are hot before adding the potatoes. Avoid overcrowding the pan, which can cause steaming instead of frying.

Q: Can I use frozen potatoes? A: Yes, you can use frozen diced or sliced potatoes. Adjust the cooking time as needed and ensure they are thawed and patted dry before frying.

Q: What can I serve with fried potatoes and onions? A: They make a great side dish for breakfast items like eggs and bacon, or dinner mains like steak, chicken, or sausages.

Fried Potatoes and Onions is a versatile and delicious dish that can be customized to suit your taste. Whether served for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, this comforting dish is sure to be a hit. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up a satisfying side in no time. Enjoy the crispy, savory goodness of homemade fried potatoes and onions!