How To Cook Hash Browns On Stove Top

(Many of the links in this article redirect to a specific reviewed product. Your purchase of these products through affiliate links helps to generate commission for Storables.com, at no extra cost. Learn more)

Introduction

Hash browns are a classic and delicious breakfast dish that can be enjoyed any time of the day. Crispy and golden on the outside, with a soft and fluffy interior, they are a perfect accompaniment to your morning eggs or as a side dish for brunch. While you can always buy frozen hash browns from the store, there’s something incredibly satisfying about making them from scratch on the stove top.

In this article, we will guide you through the process of cooking hash browns on the stove top, step by step. From preparing the ingredients to seasoning and cooking the perfect hash browns, we’ll cover it all. So, grab your potatoes and let’s get started!

Preparing the Ingredients

Before you can start cooking your hash browns, it’s important to properly prepare the ingredients. Start by gathering all the necessary items:

• 2-3 large potatoes
• 1 small onion (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Vegetable oil or butter for cooking

Begin by peeling the potatoes and rinsing them under cold water to remove any dirt or excess starch. Once clean, use a grater to shred the potatoes into long, thin strips. You can either use a box grater or a food processor with a grating attachment. If you prefer hash browns with a bit of onion flavor, you can also grate a small onion and mix it in with the potatoes.

After grating the potatoes, transfer them to a colander or sieve and press down to remove any excess moisture. Let them sit for a few minutes to drain completely. This step is crucial as excess moisture can prevent the hash browns from achieving a crispy texture.

Once the potatoes have drained, transfer them to a clean kitchen towel or a few layers of paper towels. Wrap the towel around the potatoes and squeeze firmly to remove any remaining moisture.

Now that the potatoes are prepared and well-drained, it’s time to move on to the next step: seasoning.

Seasoning the Hash Browns

Seasoning is a vital step in adding flavor to your hash browns. Here’s how to do it:

Transfer the grated and drained potatoes to a mixing bowl. Add salt and pepper to taste. You can also add other seasonings like garlic powder, paprika, or dried herbs for additional flavor. Mix the ingredients well, ensuring that the seasonings are evenly distributed throughout the potatoes.

It’s important to note that the amount of seasoning used will depend on personal preference. Start with a small amount and taste the mixture before adding more. You can always adjust the seasoning later if needed.

The next step is to heat the pan and prepare it for cooking.

Heating the Pan

Properly heating the pan is crucial for achieving crispy and golden hash browns. Follow these steps to get the pan ready:

1. Choose a non-stick skillet or frying pan that is large enough to accommodate the amount of hash browns you are cooking.
2. Place the pan on the stove top over medium heat. Allow it to heat up for a few minutes until it becomes hot.

To test if the pan is hot enough, sprinkle a few drops of water onto the surface. If the water sizzles and evaporates immediately, the pan is ready to use. If the water just sits there, continue heating the pan for a bit longer before proceeding.

Once the pan is hot, it’s time to add oil or butter to prevent the hash browns from sticking and to aid in achieving a crispy texture.

Make sure to use a non-stick pan and preheat it over medium-high heat. Add a generous amount of oil or butter to the pan before adding the hash browns. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Enjoy!

Adding Oil or Butter

Adding oil or butter to the pan is an essential step in cooking hash browns, as it helps prevent sticking and adds flavor. Here’s how to do it:

1. Choose your preferred cooking fat. You can use vegetable oil, such as canola or olive oil, or opt for butter for a richer flavor.
2. If using oil, pour a tablespoon or two into the heated pan, ensuring that the bottom is coated evenly. If using butter, allow it to melt in the pan until it completely covers the surface.
3. Tilt the pan to distribute the oil or butter, making sure it covers the entire cooking surface.

Allow the oil or butter to heat up for a few moments before adding the prepared hash browns. This will help ensure that the potatoes get evenly cooked and achieve a golden crust.

Now that the pan is hot and the oil or butter is ready, it’s time to start cooking the hash browns.

Cooking the Hash Browns

Now that the pan is hot and the oil or butter is ready, it’s time to start cooking the hash browns. Follow these steps for perfect results:

1. Gently transfer the seasoned and drained hash browns to the hot pan.
2. Spread them out evenly, forming a layer that covers the entire surface of the pan.
3. Press down on the hash browns lightly using a spatula or the back of a spoon to ensure they adhere together.
4. Allow the hash browns to cook undisturbed for about 5-7 minutes on medium heat. This will help develop a crispy and golden crust.

Resist the temptation to constantly flip the hash browns or move them around in the pan. Allowing them to cook undisturbed helps them develop a crispy texture on one side.

After 5-7 minutes, gently lift the edge of the hash browns with a spatula to check if they are crispy and golden brown. If they are not quite ready, continue cooking for another minute or two.

Once the hash browns are crispy on one side, it’s time to flip them to cook the other side.

Flipping the Hash Browns

Flipping the hash browns is a crucial step to ensure that both sides are evenly cooked and crispy. Follow these steps to flip them successfully:

1. Using a spatula, carefully lift the hash browns from one side to check if the bottom is golden brown and crispy.
2. If the bottom side is cooked to perfection, it’s time to flip them. If not, allow them to cook for another minute or two.
3. To flip the hash browns, place a large plate upside down over the pan. With one hand on the plate and the other holding the handle of the pan, carefully invert the pan, allowing the hash browns to fall onto the plate with the cooked side facing up.
4. Once the hash browns are on the plate, carefully slide them back into the pan, uncooked side down. Use a spatula to shape them back into a neat layer.

Cook the flipped hash browns for another 5-7 minutes on medium heat until the second side becomes crispy and golden brown.

Once both sides are cooked to your desired level of crispiness, it’s time to finish off the hash browns and get them ready for serving.

Finishing and Serving

Now that your hash browns are cooked to perfection, it’s time to finish them off and get them ready for serving. Follow these steps:

1. After the second side of the hash browns has cooked for 5-7 minutes, use a spatula to transfer them onto a serving plate.
2. Pat the hash browns gently with a paper towel to remove any excess oil or butter.
3. Sprinkle a pinch of salt and pepper over the hot hash browns to enhance their flavor.
4. If desired, garnish your hash browns with fresh herbs, such as chopped parsley or chives, for added freshness.

Your hash browns are now ready to be enjoyed! Serve them as a side dish with your favorite breakfast items, such as eggs, bacon, or sausage. They also make a delicious accompaniment to brunch dishes like omelets or eggs Benedict.

Remember, freshly cooked hash browns are best enjoyed immediately while they are still hot and crispy. If you need to keep them warm, place them in a preheated oven at a low temperature (around 200°F/93°C) for a short time.

Now that you know how to cook hash browns on the stove top, you can confidently whip up this classic breakfast treat whenever the craving strikes. So, grab your ingredients, heat up the pan, and get ready to enjoy crispy and flavorful homemade hash browns!