Crispy Herbed Potato Patties

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Potatoes: Begin by peeling the potatoes (if you prefer) and cutting them into large chunks. Place the potatoes in a pot of salted water and bring them to a boil. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. Drain them well and allow them to cool for a few minutes.
2. Mash the Potatoes: Once the potatoes are cool enough to handle, use a potato masher or fork to mash them until smooth. You want the texture to be creamy but not too soft—make sure there are no large lumps.
3. Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the mashed potatoes, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley, thyme, grated Parmesan (if using), egg, flour, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined. The mixture should be thick enough to hold its shape, but if it’s too sticky, you can add a bit more flour until it’s easy to work with.
4. Shape the Patties: Using your hands, take small portions of the potato mixture and shape them into patties about 2-3 inches in diameter. Press them gently to flatten, so they cook evenly and become nice and crispy.
5. Fry the Patties: Heat a generous amount of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot (but not smoking), carefully place the patties in the skillet. Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary. Fry the patties for about 3-4 minutes per side or until they’re golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain and Serve: Once the patties are perfectly crispy and golden, remove them from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Serve immediately while they’re hot and crispy!

Serving Suggestions:

These Crispy Herbed Potato Patties are incredibly versatile and can be paired with a variety of dishes and dips:

• As a Side Dish: Serve them alongside your favorite main course, like grilled chicken, a fresh salad, or a hearty vegetable soup.
• As a Snack: Pair with sour cream, ranch dressing, or even a spicy sriracha mayo for a flavorful dipping experience.
• With a Salad: Serve them on top of a bed of greens or alongside a fresh cucumber salad for a light, satisfying meal.
• As a Breakfast or Brunch Item: Top them with a fried egg, avocado slices, or a dollop of yogurt for a satisfying breakfast option.

Variations & Customization:

One of the best parts of these crispy potato patties is how easy they are to customize:

• Herb Variations: Feel free to experiment with different herbs like chives, basil, or rosemary to suit your tastes. Each herb brings its own unique flavor to the patties.
• Cheese Options: For an extra cheesy twist, add shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or feta cheese into the potato mixture.
• Spicy Kick: If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or finely chopped jalapeños to the mix for an extra zing.
• Vegan Version: For a vegan alternative, you can replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) and omit the cheese.

Healthier Option:

If you’re looking for a healthier version of these crispy potato patties, you can bake them instead of frying. Here’s how:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease it with olive oil.
3. Place the patties on the baking sheet and lightly brush the tops with olive oil.
4. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re golden brown and crispy.

Conclusion:

Crispy Herbed Potato Patties are the perfect combination of comfort, flavor, and simplicity. With a crispy exterior and a soft, flavorful interior, these patties are sure to satisfy any craving. Whether you serve them as a side dish, a snack, or a main course, they’re a guaranteed hit at the dinner table. Easy to make, versatile, and packed with fresh herbs, these potato patties will quickly become a staple in your recipe collection. Enjoy!