- Prepare the Potatoes:
- After peeling and slicing the potatoes, place them in a bowl of cold water for 10-15 minutes. This helps remove excess starch, ensuring the potatoes fry up nice and crispy. After soaking, drain and pat the potato slices dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.
- Heat the Skillet:
- In a large cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan, heat 2 tablespoons of butter and the olive oil over medium heat. The butter adds flavor, while the olive oil helps prevent the butter from burning.
- Cook the Onions:
- Add the sliced onions to the pan and cook for about 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften and caramelize slightly. You want them golden brown but not burnt. Once done, transfer the onions to a plate and set them aside.
- Fry the Potatoes:
- In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter. Once melted, add the potato slices in a single layer. It’s important not to overcrowd the pan, so you may need to cook the potatoes in batches.
- Let the potatoes cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, flipping only once, until both sides are golden brown and crispy. Don’t stir them too often; this will help them develop that irresistible crispy edge.
- Season the Potatoes:
- As the potatoes cook, season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika (if using) for added depth of flavor.
- Combine with Onions:
- Once the potatoes are crispy and cooked through, return the caramelized onions to the skillet. Toss everything together gently, letting the onions warm through and coat the potatoes.
- Serve:
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and added freshness. Serve hot, straight from the skillet!
Tips:
- Potato Varieties: Russet potatoes work best for frying due to their starchy content, but you can also use Yukon Golds for a buttery, creamier texture.
- Crispier Potatoes: Soaking the potatoes in cold water helps to achieve that extra crispy texture, but make sure to pat them dry thoroughly before frying.
- Add-ins: For extra flavor, try adding diced bacon or bell peppers to the skillet along with the onions.
Conclusion:
Fried Potatoes and Onions is a timeless dish with a perfect balance of soft, tender centers and crispy edges, with the sweet, savory addition of caramelized onions. Whether served as a hearty breakfast with eggs, or as a dinner side with your favorite protein, this dish is a crowd-pleaser every time!