McDonald's Hash Browns are a beloved breakfast item known for their crispy exterior and fluffy interior. While we might not be able to recreate the exact magic of McDonald's kitchen, we can certainly try our best to make a delicious McDonald's-style hash brown at home. Here's how you can do it.
Ingredients
You'll need the following ingredients to make your McDonald's Hash Browns at home:
- 4 large Russet potatoes (or 6 medium-sized)
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- Salt to taste
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
1. Prepare the Potatoes
- Peel and wash the potatoes.
- Shred the potatoes using a box grater or a food processor with a shredding attachment. The texture of the hash browns largely depends on how finely you shred the potatoes.
2. Remove Excess Starch
- Soak the shredded potatoes in cold water mixed with the tablespoon of white vinegar for about 30 minutes. This step helps remove the excess starch, which leads to a crispier end product.
- After soaking, drain and rinse the potatoes under cold water until the water runs clear.
3. Dry the Potatoes
- Squeeze the potatoes with your hands to remove as much water as possible. Alternatively, you can use a cheesecloth or a clean tea towel to wring out the moisture.
4. Mix Ingredients
- In a large bowl, mix the dried potatoes, egg, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt until everything is well combined. The egg and cornstarch help to bind the potatoes together and give that characteristic McDonald’s Hash Brown texture.
5. Shape the Hash Browns
- Form the potato mixture into patties. If the mixture is too loose, you can add a little more cornstarch to firm it up. Remember, McDonald’s hash browns are oval, but you can shape them into rounds or rectangles if you prefer.
6. Fry the Hash Browns
- Heat about 1⁄4 inch of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. When the oil is hot, carefully add the hash brown patties.
- Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown and crispy. Ensure to cook them in batches if necessary, to avoid overcrowding the pan.
7. Drain and Season
- Once cooked, use a slotted spatula to transfer the hash browns to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
- Season with a bit more salt while they are still hot.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your homemade hash browns:
- As part of a hearty breakfast with eggs and bacon.
- As a side with McDonald’s-style breakfast sandwiches.
- Or just enjoy them on their own with ketchup or your favorite dipping sauce!
💡 Note: The key to a great hash brown is the removal of excess moisture. Make sure to wring out the potatoes well to ensure crispiness.
At home, you've now mastered the art of creating your own McDonald's Hash Browns. While they might not match the consistency of the commercial kitchen, the essence of a good hash brown - crisp on the outside, tender on the inside - should be well captured. Enjoy your crispy, delicious, and satisfying homemade hash browns with all the love and care that home cooking brings!
Why do I need to soak the potatoes in vinegar?
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Soaking in vinegar helps to remove excess starch from the potatoes, which helps to make the hash browns crispier by reducing the amount of water that needs to evaporate when frying.
Can I bake these hash browns instead of frying?
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Yes, you can bake hash browns, but they will not have the same crispy exterior that frying provides. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C), lightly grease a baking sheet, and bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and golden.
How can I store leftover hash browns?
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Let the hash browns cool completely before storing. Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze them for up to a month. Reheat in an oven or toaster oven to retain crispiness.
Related Terms:
- mcdonalds hashbrowns recipe
- Hash brown patties
- Shredded Hash Browns
- Hash Browns
- Hash brown casserole
- Home fries
