Mark Bittman: Crisp Pan-Fried Potatoes (Home Fries)
This technique produces better results than conventional Home Fries, but you need two things: waxy potatoes, because starchy ones will fall apart before they get crisp; and patience.
Other vegetables you can use: beets, rutabagas, parsnips, or carrots, though they won't get quite as crisp.
From How to Cook Everything (Completely Revised 10th Anniversary Edition)
Crisp Pan-Fried Potatoes (Home Fries)
Makes: 4 servings
Time: About 45 minutes
About 2 pounds waxy potatoes
1/4 cup peanut, extra virgin olive, or neutral oil, like grapeseed or corn, or more as needed
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
1. Peel the potatoes if you like (it isn't at all necessary since waxy potatoes have thin, delicious skins) and cut them into 1-inch chunks. Put the oil in a large skillet, preferably nonstick or cast-iron, over medium heat. When hot, add the potatoes and cook, undisturbed, until they begin to brown around the edges and release from the pan, about 10 minutes.
2. Continue cooking, turning to brown all the sides without stirring too often. (This is the part that takes the most patience.) Add more oil if needed to prevent the potatoes from sticking. And if they are browning too fast, turn the heat down just a tad. They'll take up to 20 minutes longer to cook.
3. When the potatoes are tender and golden, turn the heat up a bit to crisp them up. Sprinkle with salt and pepper and toss to coat. Taste, adjust the seasoning, and serve hot or at room temperature.
Mark Bittman's award-winning How to Cook Everything has helped countless home cooks discover the rewards of simple cooking. Now the ultimate cookbook has been revised and expanded (almost half the material is new), making it absolutely indispensable for anyone who cooks-or wants to. With Bittman's straightforward instructions and advice, you'll make crowd-pleasing food using fresh, natural ingredients; simple techniques; and basic equipment. Even better, you'll discover how to relax and enjoy yourself in the kitchen as you prepare delicious meals for every occasion.
