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Welcome to the delicious world of homemade snacks! Few things evoke a sense of nostalgia and comfort like a plate of crispy tater tots. These Crunchy Potato Gems are not just any ordinary side dish; they are a delightful treat that can elevate any meal or serve as the perfect party snack. Imagine biting into a perfectly golden, crunchy exterior that gives way to a soft, pillowy interior—each bite is a celebration of flavor and texture. In this article, we will guide you through every step of creating these irresistible potato gems, from selecting the right ingredients to frying them to golden perfection. Discover the magic of homemade tater tots and impress your friends and family with your culinary skills.

The Best Homemade Tater Tots – Crispy & Golden!

Discover the joy of making homemade Crunchy Potato Gems—tater tots that bring comfort and nostalgia to any table. With golden, crispy exteriors and fluffy interiors, these delightful treats can be enjoyed as snacks, sides, or gourmet dishes. Learn how to select the best russet potatoes, mash and season them perfectly, and achieve that ideal crunch through frying. Impress friends and family with this easy-to-follow recipe that celebrates a beloved classic!
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Ingredients
  

2 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks

1 teaspoon salt, plus more for seasoning

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1/2 teaspoon paprika

1/4 cup all-purpose flour

1 egg, beaten

3 cups vegetable oil (for frying)

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Potatoes: Place the peeled potato chunks in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add 1 teaspoon of salt, then bring the water to a boil. Reduce to a simmer and cook until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.

    Mash the Potatoes: Drain the potatoes and let them cool for a few minutes. Transfer them to a mixing bowl and mash until smooth. You can use a potato masher or a ricer for an even creamier texture.

      Season the Mixture: Stir in the black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, flour, and beaten egg until everything is well combined. The mixture should be thick but pliable.

        Form the Tater Tots: Using your hands, form the potato mixture into small cylinders or oval shapes, about 1-1.5 inches in size. Lay them out on a parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring they are not touching.

          Chill for Firmness: Place the formed tater tots in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps them hold their shape during frying.

            Heat the Oil: In a deep pan or heavy-bottomed pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). You can test the oil by dropping in a small piece of potato; it should sizzle immediately.

              Fry the Tater Tots: Carefully add a batch of tater tots to the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked tots to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

                Season and Serve: Sprinkle additional salt over the hot tater tots and garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your homemade tater tots with your favorite dipping sauces, like ketchup or ranch dressing!

                  Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 4-6