Description
Crispy and golden homemade tater tots made from grated russet potatoes, seasoned with garlic and onion powder, and cooked by frying or baking for a deliciously satisfying snack or side dish.
Ingredients
Scale
Potatoes and Seasoning
- 4 medium russet potatoes, peeled
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
Binding Agents
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1 egg (optional, for binding)
Cooking Oils
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- Olive oil spray (for baking)
Instructions
- Prepare the Potatoes: Peel and grate the potatoes using a box grater or food processor. Place grated potatoes in cold water for 5 minutes to prevent browning, then drain and rinse thoroughly.
- Dry the Potatoes: Wrap the grated potatoes in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out as much moisture as possible to ensure crispiness.
- Season the Potatoes: In a large bowl, combine grated potatoes with olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder, mixing well to coat evenly.
- Add Flour and Cornstarch: Stir in the all-purpose flour and cornstarch until fully incorporated. Optionally, add an egg to help bind the mixture for firmer tots.
- Shape the Tater Tots: Form small cylinders approximately 1 inch long by taking spoonfuls of the potato mixture. Place shaped tots on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Cook the Tater Tots: For frying, heat 2 inches of vegetable oil to 375°F (190°C) and fry tots in batches for 3-4 minutes until golden brown and crispy; drain on paper towels. For baking, preheat oven to 425°F (220°C), lightly spray tots with olive oil, and bake for 20-25 minutes flipping halfway, until golden and crisp.
- Serve: Serve hot with your choice of dipping sauces like ketchup, ranch, or cheese sauce for a perfect snack or side dish.
Notes
- Removing excess moisture from grated potatoes is essential for crispy tater tots.
- The egg is optional but helps achieve a firmer texture and better binding.
- You can choose to fry or bake based on your preference for a healthier or traditional preparation.
- Use a thermometer to maintain the correct oil temperature for frying to avoid greasy tots.
- Flip the tots halfway through baking to ensure even crisping.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
