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Homemade Tater Tots Recipe

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  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes (frying) or 25 minutes (baking)
  • Total Time: 30-40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This Homemade Tater Tots recipe offers a crispy, flavorful snack made from fresh russet potatoes seasoned with garlic and onion powder. You can choose to fry them for a traditional crunch or bake them for a healthier option. Perfect as a side dish or a fun finger food, these tater tots are easy to make and customizable with your favorite dips.


Ingredients

Potatoes and Seasoning

  • 4 medium russet potatoes, peeled
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder

Binding Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • 1 egg (optional, for binding)

Cooking Oil

  • Vegetable oil (for frying) or olive oil spray (for baking)


Instructions

  1. Prepare the Potatoes: Peel the potatoes and grate them using a box grater or food processor. Place the grated potatoes in a bowl of cold water for about 5 minutes to prevent browning. Drain and rinse well.
  2. Dry the Potatoes: Transfer the grated potatoes to a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out as much moisture as possible to ensure the tots become crispy when cooked.
  3. Season the Potatoes: In a large bowl, combine the grated potatoes with olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix thoroughly to evenly coat the potatoes with the seasoning.
  4. Add the Flour and Cornstarch: Stir in the flour and cornstarch until fully incorporated. Optionally, add the egg to bind the mixture more firmly.
  5. Shape the Tater Tots: Scoop small spoonfuls of the mixture and roll them into cylinders about 1 inch long. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
  6. Cook the Tater Tots: For frying, heat 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 375°F (190°C). Fry the tots in batches for 3-4 minutes until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels. For baking, preheat oven to 425°F (220°C), spray tots lightly with olive oil, and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
  7. Serve: Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces such as ketchup, ranch, or cheese sauce.

Notes

  • Make sure to dry the grated potatoes thoroughly for the crispiest results.
  • The egg is optional but helps with binding the tots to hold their shape better.
  • If baking, flipping the tots halfway ensures even crisping on all sides.
  • Adjust seasoning to your taste; add additional herbs or spices if desired.
  • Leftover tots can be reheated in the oven to maintain crispiness.