Starchy Crispy Potato Balls are crispy on the outside, soft and starchy on the inside, making for a delicious snack or appetizer. These potato balls are perfect for frying and can be flavored with spices, herbs, or cheese for extra taste. Here’s a simple recipe to make them:
Ingredients:
- 4 medium potatoes (about 1 lb or 450g), peeled
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch (for crispiness)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- 1/4 cup grated cheese (optional, like cheddar or Parmesan)
- 1 egg (beaten)
- Oil for frying (vegetable oil or sunflower oil works well)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the potatoes:
Peel and dice the potatoes into small chunks. Place them in a pot of salted water and bring to a boil. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. Drain the potatoes and allow them to cool slightly.
2. Mash the potatoes:
Once the potatoes are cool enough to handle, mash them well with a fork or potato masher until smooth. There should be no lumps.
3. Make the potato mixture:
To the mashed potatoes, add cornstarch, flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. If using, add the grated cheese for extra flavor. Mix everything together until combined. The mixture should be thick and a bit sticky but easy to work with.
4. Shape the potato balls:
Using your hands, take about 1 tablespoon of the potato mixture and roll it into a ball. Repeat until all the mixture is used up, forming 12-15 small potato balls, depending on the size you want.
5. Coat the balls:
Dip each potato ball into the beaten egg, making sure it’s fully coated. Then, roll it in a little extra flour or breadcrumbs to create an outer coating. This will help make them crispy when fried.
6. Fry the potato balls:
Heat oil in a deep frying pan or skillet over medium-high heat. You want enough oil to submerge at least half of the potato balls. Once the oil is hot (about 350°F or 175°C), carefully add the potato balls to the hot oil in batches, being sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 3-4 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
7. Drain and serve:
Using a slotted spoon, remove the potato balls from the oil and drain them on a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess oil.
Serve the Starchy Crispy Potato Balls hot with your favorite dipping sauces, such as ketchup, ranch dressing, or a spicy mayo.
Tips:
- Add-ins: You can stuff these potato balls with cooked meat, cheese, or herbs for added flavor.
- Bake instead of frying: For a healthier version, bake the potato balls at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden brown.
- Spices: Feel free to experiment with different seasonings like curry powder, onion powder, or chili flakes for a unique twist.
These Starchy Crispy Potato Balls are crispy on the outside, soft and starchy inside, and sure to be a hit with anyone who loves potato-based snacks! Enjoy!