Hash browns

Not to be confused with hash brownies.

Shredded hash browns, pictured with slider sandwiches

A hash brown patty

Hashed browns as bite-size pieces, known as tater tots in the U.S.

Hash browns or hashed browns are a simple preparation in which potato pieces are pan-fried after being shredded, julienned, diced, or riced. In some cultures, hash browns or hashed browns can refer to any of these preparations, while in others it may refer to one specific preparation. Hash browns are a staple breakfast food at diners in North America, where they are often fried on a large common cooktop or grill.

In some parts of the United States, hash browns strictly refer to shredded or riced pan-fried potatoes and are considered a breakfast food (they are part of McDonald's breakfast combos), while potatoes diced or cubed and pan-fried are also a side dish called country fried potatoes or home fries (though many variations of home fries are par-cooked before frying). Some recipes add diced or chopped onions.

History

Originally, the full name was "hashed brown potatoes" (or "hashed browned potatoes"), of which the first known mention is by food author Maria Parloa (1843–1909) in 1888. The name was gradually shortened to 'hash brown potatoes'.

Preparation

A chef may prepare hash browns by forming riced potatoes into patties before frying with onions (moisture and potato starch can hold them together); however, if a binding agent is added (egg for example), such a preparation constitutes a potato pancake. Frozen hash browns are sometimes made into patty form for ease of handling, and the compact, flat shape can also be cooked in a toaster oven or toaster. If a dish of hash browned potatoes incorporates chopped meat, leftovers, or other vegetables, it is more commonly referred to as hash.

See also

• Boxty
• Croquette
• Deruny (Ukrainian)
• Home fries
• List of potato dishes
• Potato waffle
• Rösti
• Tater Tots

Food portal

External links

• United States Standards for Grades of Frozen Hash Brown Potatoes (PDF)