Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Directions
- Start by peeling the potatoes, if you prefer them without skin. Rinse them under cold water to remove any dirt. Then, using a grater or a food processor, shred the potatoes into fine pieces.
- Transfer the shredded potatoes to a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth. Squeeze out as much moisture as possible. This step is crucial for achieving that desired crispy texture.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the grated potatoes, all-purpose flour, salt, onion powder, and paprika. Mix until everything is well combined. The flour will help bind the potatoes together, preventing them from falling apart during frying.
- Dust your hands with a little extra flour to prevent sticking. Take a small handful of the potato mixture and shape it into small cylindrical forms, about the size of a thumb. Repeat until you’ve shaped all the mixture into tots.
- In a frying pan or deep fryer, heat the oil over medium-high heat. You want enough oil to submerge the tots halfway. To test if the oil is ready, drop a small piece of potato mixture into the oil; if it sizzles, you’re good to go!
- Carefully place a few potato tots into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove them from the oil and transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.
- Once all the tots are fried, serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauces. Enjoy the satisfying crunch and the delightful flavor of your Homemade Potato Tots!
Notes
- For the crispiest tots, make sure to remove as much moisture as possible from the grated potatoes.
- Don’t rush the frying process; allow the oil to heat adequately before adding the tots.
- Experiment with different seasonings to find your favorite blend.
- If you're not ready to fry them immediately, you can store the shaped tots in the refrigerator for a couple of hours before frying.