Hash browns, a classic breakfast staple, have more to offer than just their delicious, crispy texture. From boosting your energy levels to providing essential nutrients, hash browns are a healthy addition to any meal. This article will highlight a straightforward method of cooking hashbrowns using an air fryer. Read on to learn how to cook hashbrowns in air fryer from scratch, and find some tasty ways to serve them.
Health Benefits of Hash Browns
Hash browns, when made from fresh potatoes and cooked in an air fryer, can be a nutritious addition to your diet. They retain the health benefits of potatoes, such as being rich in vitamins C and B6, which support immune function and brain health. Hash browns also provide a good amount of dietary fiber, aiding digestion and promoting a feeling of fullness. Furthermore, the potassium in potatoes helps regulate blood pressure, contributing to heart health.
How to Make Hash Browns in Air Fryer from Scratch?
Creating delicious hashbrowns in the air fryer from scratch is simpler than you might think. By preparing the basic ingredients and following the specific steps below, you can achieve perfectly crispy air fryer hashbrowns that are a delightful addition to any meal.
Ingredients
Here are the ingredients you'll need while cooking hashbrowns in an air fryer:
- 4 medium-sized russet potatoes (high starch content for crispiness)
- 1 small onion (optional, for added flavor)
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon of cornstarch (for extra crispiness)
- Oil spray or 1-2 tablespoons of vegetable oil (to ensure even cooking)
Instructions for Hash Browns in the Air Fryer
Now that you have all your ingredients prepared, let's move on to the step-by-step instructions for making hash browns with air fryer from scratch.
Step 1. Prepping the Potatoes
Peel four medium-sized russet potatoes and use a grater to shred the potatoes into fine pieces. Place the shredded potatoes in a bowl of cold water and rinse them thoroughly to remove excess starch. After rinsing, drain the water and pat the potatoes dry using a clean kitchen towel or paper towel.
Step 2. Adding Onions and Seasonings
For added flavor, peel and grate a small onion and mix it with the shredded potatoes in a large bowl. Sprinkle 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1 tablespoon of cornstarch over the potato mixture for flavor and crispiness of the hash browns. Mix everything thoroughly to ensure the seasonings are evenly distributed.
Step 3. Preheating and Preparing the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes. I like using the Schwua Air Fryer Oven, as it has a digital touchscreen on some air fryer models that allows precise control over cooking settings.
Step 4. Shaping the Hash Browns
Take a handful of the potato mixture and shape it into small patties or spread it evenly. Ensure they are not too thick, as thick hashbrowns are hard to cook through. Spray the air fryer basket with oil spray or lightly brush it with vegetable oil to prevent sticking.
Step 5. Cooking the Hash Browns
Place the potato patties in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they do not overlap. How long to cook hash browns in air fryer? Cook them for 10-12 minutes, then flip them over and cook for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
Adjust the air fryer time for hash browns as needed based on your air fryer model. For example, the Schwua Air Fryer Oven, with its large capacity and safety features like auto-shutoff and overheat protection, ensures a safe and efficient cooking experience.
Step 6. Serving the Hash Browns
Once cooked, remove the hash browns from the air fryer and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your homemade air fryer hash browns with your favorite breakfast dishes or as a tasty snack.
Serving Suggestions
Air fryer hash browns are a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in numerous ways. For breakfast, serve them alongside classic favorites like scrambled eggs, bacon, or avocado toast. The crispiness of the hash browns complements the soft textures of eggs and avocados, creating a balanced and satisfying meal.
For a hearty brunch, consider making a breakfast bowl by topping your diced hash browns in air fryer with sautéed vegetables, a poached egg, and a sprinkle of cheese. This not only adds flavor and variety but also increases the nutritional value of your meal.
Hash browns can also be a delightful side dish for lunch or dinner. Pair them with a fresh garden salad, grilled chicken, or a juicy burger for a complete and wholesome meal. For a fun twist, try using hash browns as a base for a savory casserole, layering them with your favorite meats, vegetables, and cheese.
If you're hosting a gathering, mini hash brown bites can be a crowd-pleasing appetizer. Simply shape smaller portions of the hash brown mixture and serve them with a variety of dipping sauces, such as sour cream, ketchup, or a spicy aioli.
These ideas make it easy to incorporate air fryer hash browns into any meal, ensuring they're not only delicious but also add a touch of creativity to your cooking.
Conclusion
Air fryer hash browns offer a nutritious option for any meal. By making them from scratch, you ensure they are fresh and free from preservatives. Better still, using the air fryer gives hash browns a perfect crispy texture without excessive oil, enhancing their health benefits. Serve your hash browns with a variety of toppings or alongside your favorite breakfast dishes to elevate your meal experience. Enjoy the perfect blend of taste and health in every bite.
