Hash browns are a beloved breakfast staple that can transform an ordinary morning into a culinary delight. With just shredded potatoes and a handful of common pantry staples, you can whip up the perfect batch of hash browns in less than an hour. In this guide, we'll walk you through the process of cooking hash browns in a frying pan, which is widely regarded as the best way to achieve that crispy exterior and fluffy interior.

First things first, let's gather the ingredients. You'll need about 2 pounds of potatoes. Russet potatoes are an excellent choice as they have a high starch content, which helps the hash browns hold together. You'll also need 1 small onion, finely chopped, 2 cloves of garlic, minced, 1/4 cup of all - purpose flour, 1 egg, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper, and a generous amount of vegetable oil for frying.

Start by preparing the potatoes. Wash the potatoes thoroughly and then use a box grater or a food processor to shred them. Once shredded, place the potatoes in a large bowl filled with cold water. This step is crucial as it helps to remove the excess starch from the potatoes. Let the potatoes soak for about 15 - 20 minutes, then drain the water and transfer the shredded potatoes to a clean kitchen towel. Wrap the towel around the potatoes and squeeze out as much moisture as possible. The drier the potatoes, the crispier the hash browns will be.

Next, in a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded potatoes, chopped onion, minced garlic, flour, egg, salt, and pepper. Use a fork or your hands to mix the ingredients well until they are evenly combined. The egg and flour act as binders, helping the hash browns hold their shape during cooking.

Now, it's time to heat up the frying pan. Pour about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil into a large, heavy - bottomed skillet and place it over medium - high heat. You can test if the oil is hot enough by dropping a small piece of potato into it. If it sizzles immediately, the oil is ready.

Using a spoon or an ice cream scoop, portion out the potato mixture into the hot oil. Press each portion gently with a spatula to form a round, flat patty about 1/2 inch thick. Make sure to leave some space between the hash browns to allow them to cook evenly. Cook the hash browns for about 3 - 4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. You may need to adjust the heat as you cook to prevent them from burning.

Once the hash browns are cooked to perfection, remove them from the frying pan and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. You can serve the hash browns immediately, topped with your favorite condiments such as ketchup, sour cream, or salsa. They also pair well with bacon, eggs, and toast for a complete breakfast.

One of the great things about hash browns is that they are highly customizable. You can add different ingredients to the potato mixture to give them a unique flavor. For example, you can add shredded cheese, diced bell peppers, or chopped herbs like parsley or chives. You can also experiment with different types of potatoes, such as sweet potatoes or Yukon Gold potatoes, to create a different taste and texture.

In conclusion, making perfect hash browns at home is not as difficult as it may seem. With a little bit of preparation and the right technique, you can enjoy delicious, crispy hash browns that are sure to impress your family and friends. So, the next time you're in the mood for a hearty breakfast, give these hash browns a try. You won't be disappointed!