Southern Fried Potatoes

Southern cuisine is known for its rich, flavorful, and comforting dishes, and Southern Fried Potatoes are no exception. These golden, crispy potatoes are a beloved classic in the South and are the perfect side dish for breakfast, brunch, or dinner. In this recipe, we’ll show you how to make Southern Fried Potatoes that are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re a born-and-raised Southerner or simply a fan of good food, you’ll love this dish.

Ingredients:

• 4 large russet potatoes
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 green bell pepper, finely chopped
• 1/2 red bell pepper, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to your spice preference)
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Start by preparing the potatoes. Wash and peel them, then cut into thin slices, approximately 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick. You can also opt for cubes or sticks if you prefer a different shape.
2. Place the sliced potatoes in a bowl of cold water and let them soak for about 10 minutes. This step helps remove excess starch, preventing the potatoes from sticking together while frying.
3. After soaking, drain the potatoes and pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel.
4. In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
5. Add the chopped onions and bell peppers to the skillet. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until they become translucent and slightly softened.
6. Stir in the minced garlic, paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes to let the flavors meld.
7. Add the dried potato slices to the skillet, spreading them out evenly. Allow them to cook without stirring for a few minutes until the bottoms turn golden brown.
8. Carefully flip the potato slices to brown the other side. You may need to do this in batches to ensure even browning and to prevent overcrowding.
9. Continue cooking the potatoes for about 15-20 minutes, flipping them occasionally, until they are crispy and tender. Adjust the heat as needed to avoid burning.
10. Once the potatoes are done, transfer them to a serving platter, garnish with chopped fresh parsley, and serve immediately.

Cook’s Notes:

• Adjust the level of spiciness by increasing or decreasing the amount of cayenne pepper to suit your taste.
• To enhance the flavor, consider adding diced bacon or ham during the cooking process.

Variations:

1. Cheesy Southern Fried Potatoes: Before serving, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the hot potatoes and cover them to let the cheese melt.

2. Loaded Southern Fried Potatoes: Top your fried potatoes with sour cream, chives, and crispy bacon bits for a loaded baked potato-inspired twist.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions:

Keto Version:

• Substitute russet potatoes with cauliflower or turnips to reduce the carb content.
• Use keto-friendly oil, such as avocado oil or ghee, for frying.

Low-Carb Version:

• Replace russet potatoes with radishes, which have fewer carbs and a similar texture when cooked.

Conclusion:

Southern Fried Potatoes are a timeless and cherished dish that embodies the heart and soul of Southern cooking. These golden, crispy potatoes with tender centers and a touch of spice are a comforting addition to any meal. Whether you’re serving them for a hearty breakfast or as a side dish with dinner, their deliciousness is sure to shine through. So, embrace the spirit of Southern hospitality and whip up a batch of these Southern Fried Potatoes for your next meal. Your taste buds will thank you