Americal Recipe: Tates tots
Ingredients:
- 4 cups of grated potatoes (about 4-5 medium-sized potatoes)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion (optional)
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- Oil for frying
Instructions:
1.Prepare the Potatoes:
- Start by peeling the potatoes and then grate them using a box grater or a food processor. You can also use frozen grated potatoes, but make sure to thaw them before using.
2.Squeeze Out Excess Moisture:
- Place the grated potatoes in a clean kitchen towel or a cheesecloth and squeeze out as much moisture as possible. This will help your tater tots crisp up when frying.
3. Mix the Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, combine the grated potatoes, finely chopped onion (if using), salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix well to evenly distribute the seasonings.
4.Add Flour:**
- Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the potato mixture and gently mix until the flour is incorporated. The flour helps bind the mixture together and contributes to a crispy exterior.
5.Shape the Tater Tots:
- Take a small portion of the potato mixture and shape it into a cylinder or a small barrel shape, similar to a tater tot. Repeat this process with the remaining mixture.
6.Heat the Oil:
- Heat oil in a deep frying pan or pot to about 350°F (175°C). You want enough oil to submerge the tater tots completely.
7.Fry the Tater Tots:
- Carefully place the shaped tater tots into the hot oil using a slotted spoon. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them in batches if necessary.
- Fry the tater tots until they are golden brown and crispy, which usually takes about 3-4 minutes. Use the slotted spoon to remove them from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.
8.Serve:
- Once all the tater tots are fried and drained, they are ready to be served. You can enjoy them as a snack or a side dish.
9.Optional: Baking Method
- If you prefer a healthier alternative, you can also bake the tater tots. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C), arrange the tater tots on a baking sheet, and bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they are crispy and golden brown.