Looking for a simple yet delicious side dish that will please everyone? Look no further than this easy recipe for fried potatoes and onions. With crispy potatoes and sweet, caramelized onions, this classic comfort food is sure to be a hit.
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil or bacon fat
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
1. Prepare the Potatoes and Onions
Start by peeling the potatoes and onions, then thinly slice them. Thin slices allow for even cooking and give you that perfect balance of crispiness and flavor.
2. Preheat the Skillet
Heat the vegetable oil or bacon fat in a large skillet over medium heat. Make sure to use a skillet that is big enough to lay the potatoes in a single layer, as this will help them cook evenly and become nice and crispy.
3. Cook the Onions
Add the sliced onions to the hot skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until they become soft, translucent, and start to caramelize. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Caramelized onions add a sweet, rich flavor that complements the potatoes perfectly.
4. Add the Potatoes
Once the onions are caramelized, add the sliced potatoes to the skillet. Spread them out evenly to ensure even cooking.
5. Seasoning
Sprinkle the mixture with salt, pepper, and paprika for added flavor. Adjust the seasonings to suit your taste, making sure every slice gets coated with the delicious flavors.
6. Cook Until Golden Brown
Let the potatoes cook undisturbed for a few minutes to allow the bottom layer to turn a golden brown. Once they are nicely browned, flip them over to cook the other side. Keep flipping until all the potatoes are golden and crispy on the outside.
7. Check for Doneness
Use a fork to check the potatoes. If they are tender inside and crispy outside, they are ready to go. The combination of crispy edges and soft insides is what makes this dish irresistible.
8. Garnish and Serve
Transfer the cooked potatoes and onions to a serving dish. If desired, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.
9. Serve Warm
Enjoy the fried potatoes and onions right away while they are hot and crispy. They make a fantastic side dish for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
- Add Extra Flavor: Get creative by adding a sprinkle of garlic powder, onion powder, or your favorite herbs while the potatoes are cooking. This will enhance the flavor and make the dish your own.
- Bacon Twist: For a smoky, rich twist, cook some bacon in the skillet first and use the rendered bacon fat to fry the potatoes and onions. Once everything is cooked, crumble the crispy bacon over the top before serving.
This fried potatoes and onions recipe is incredibly versatile. It pairs perfectly with a wide variety of main courses. Serve it alongside scrambled eggs for a hearty breakfast or grilled meats for a satisfying dinner. The combination of crispy potatoes and sweet caramelized onions is a timeless favorite that will please everyone. Whether you’re enjoying it for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, these fried potatoes and onions are always a hit.
