Description
Homemade Tater Tots are crispy, golden-brown potato cylinders made from shredded russet potatoes mixed with simple seasonings and lightly fried to perfection. They serve as a delicious, kid-friendly side dish or snack that can be enjoyed with ketchup or any favorite dipping sauce. This classic American recipe is easy to prepare and perfect for parties or casual meals.
Ingredients
Scale
Potatoes and Seasonings
- 2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
For Frying
- Vegetable oil for frying (about 2 inches deep)
Instructions
- Parboil the Potatoes: Place peeled potatoes in a pot of cold, salted water and bring to a boil. Cook for about 6 to 7 minutes until they are slightly softened but not fully cooked. Drain the potatoes and allow them to cool until easy to handle.
- Shred the Potatoes: Using a box grater, shred the partially cooked potatoes into a large bowl carefully to maintain their texture.
- Mix Ingredients: Gently combine the shredded potatoes with the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and chopped parsley if using. Mix thoroughly but gently to avoid crushing the potatoes.
- Form Tater Tots: Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of the potato mixture and shape them into small cylindrical tots with your hands.
- Heat the Oil: Pour about 2 inches of vegetable oil into a deep skillet or pot and heat it to 375°F (190°C).
- Fry the Tots: Fry the tater tots in batches, turning occasionally, for about 3 to 4 minutes each batch until they turn golden brown and crispy.
- Drain and Serve: Transfer the fried tots to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve hot with ketchup or your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
- You can freeze the shaped tots before frying for quick snacks later.
- For a healthier version, bake the tots at 425°F for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Alternatively, air fry at 400°F for 12 to 15 minutes until crispy.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6–8 tots
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
