These crispy baked and fried potato bites offer a delightful combination of textures and flavors, making them a perfect snack or side dish. With a golden, crispy exterior and soft, fluffy interior, these bites are incredibly satisfying whether you bake them for a healthier version or fry them for an extra crunch. Paired with your favorite dipping sauce, they are sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Ingredients
- 2 medium-sized potatoes
- 600 ml water
- 1/4 tsp salt (for seasoning mashed potatoes)
- A pinch of black pepper
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tbsp melted butter (20 g)
- 1 tbsp cornstarch (additional)
- Vegetable oil (for greasing and frying)
- 1 chicken egg (beaten, for egg wash)
- 1 tbsp salted butter (for brushing post-baking)
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
- Peel the potatoes and cut them into thin slices. Thin slices help the potatoes cook evenly and quickly.
Step 2: Cook the Potatoes
- Place the sliced potatoes into a pot and pour 600 ml of water over them.
- Bring the water to a boil, then reduce to medium heat. Let the potatoes cook for about 15 minutes, or until they’re soft and tender.
Step 3: Season and Mash the Potatoes
- Once the potatoes are fully cooked, drain them and transfer them into a large bowl.
- Add 1/4 teaspoon of salt and a pinch of black pepper to taste.
- Mash the potatoes thoroughly until smooth and lump-free.
Step 4: Add Cornstarch and Butter
- Add 2 tablespoons of cornstarch to the mashed potatoes and mix well until it’s fully incorporated.
- Pour in 1 tablespoon of melted butter (20 g) and stir again.
- For an extra firm texture, add another tablespoon of cornstarch and mix until the mixture becomes thick and pliable.
Step 5: Shape the Potato Balls
- Grease the bottom of a colander with vegetable oil to prevent sticking, and lightly oil your hands.
- Roll the mashed potato mixture into small balls (about the size of a golf ball).
- After forming the balls, press each one gently with your palm to flatten them slightly.
Step 6: Create a Pattern on the Potatoes
- To give the potato bites a decorative finish, press the flat side of each potato ball against the base of a sieve or colander to create a textured pattern.
- Repeat this with all the remaining potato balls.
Step 7: Baking Method
- Preheat your oven to 220°C (425°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Arrange the potato bites on the baking sheet.
- Beat 1 chicken egg and brush the tops of each potato bite with the egg wash for a beautiful golden finish.
Step 8: Bake the Potato Bites
- Bake the potato bites for 15 minutes or until golden brown and crispy on the edges.
- While they are still hot, brush them with salted butter for extra flavor.
Step 9: Frying Method (Optional)
- If you prefer a crispier, fried version, heat a generous amount of vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
- Carefully place the potato bites into the hot oil and fry them for about 3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Once fried, transfer the potato bites to a paper towel to drain excess oil.
Step 10: Serve
- Whether baked or fried, these potato bites are best served hot.
- Pair them with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ketchup, ranch dressing, or a spicy aioli, for an irresistible snack.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with ketchup for a classic snack experience.
- Serve with ranch dressing for a creamy and tangy dip.
- Try a spicy aioli for a flavorful twist.
- Serve as a side dish alongside a hearty main course, such as grilled meats or a veggie burger.
Cooking Tips
- For extra crispiness, ensure the potato balls are well-coated with cornstarch before baking or frying.
- Chill the formed potato balls in the fridge for 10-15 minutes before cooking to help them firm up and retain their shape.
- Use a non-stick frying pan for frying to avoid sticking and achieve a golden, crisp exterior.
- For a lighter option, bake all of the potato bites rather than frying them.
- Brush with butter immediately after baking to lock in moisture and enhance the flavor.
Variations
- Add grated cheese to the mashed potatoes for a cheesy version of these potato bites.
- Spice it up by incorporating some chopped green chilies or hot sauce into the mashed potatoes.
- Try using sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a different flavor and texture.
FAQs
Can I make these potato bites in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the mashed potato mixture and shape the bites ahead of time. Store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking. If you’re making them in large batches, you can freeze the uncooked potato balls and bake or fry them when ready.
Are these potato bites suitable for a vegan diet?
To make these potato bites vegan, omit the egg wash and use olive oil instead of butter for brushing. You can also skip the butter in the mashed potatoes, as the texture is still great without it.
Can I bake these potato bites without an egg wash?
Yes, you can skip the egg wash, but the potato bites may not have the same golden, glossy finish. You can try using a brush of olive oil or melted vegan butter instead.
How do I store leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 5-7 minutes or until crispy.
Nutritional Benefits
- Rich in potassium: Potatoes are a good source of potassium, which is important for heart and muscle function.
- Good source of fiber: Potatoes, especially with the skin, provide a significant amount of fiber that aids digestion.
- Low in fat (baked version): The baked version is a low-fat snack option.
- Customizable: You can adjust the amount of butter and oil used to make the dish more or less indulgent.
Dietary Information
- Gluten-Free: These potato bites are naturally gluten-free, making them a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Vegetarian: No meat or animal products other than egg and butter are used in this recipe.
- Dairy-Free (optional): Skip the butter and egg wash for a dairy-free version.
Nutritional Facts (per serving, baked)
- Calories: ~120
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Fat: 4 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Sugar: 1 g
Storage
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to retain crispiness.
- Freezing: Freeze uncooked potato balls for up to 3 months. Bake or fry from frozen.
Conclusion
These crispy baked and fried potato bites are the perfect combination of savory, golden crunch and soft, creamy inside. Whether you bake or fry them, they’re a versatile and delicious snack that pairs wonderfully with any dipping sauce. Perfect for a party or as a side dish, these potato bites will surely become a crowd favorite!