Homemade Tater Tots Recipe
Crispy and golden Homemade Tater Tots made from fresh potatoes, seasoned with a touch of onion and spices. These classic potato bites can be fried for a traditional texture or air fried for a healthier alternative, making them a delicious snack or side dish.
- Author: Rita
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 30-40 tater tots 1x
- Category: Snack
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Potatoes
Seasoning
- 1/2 tablespoon flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Pinch of pepper
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped onions
Frying
- Oil for frying (preferably peanut oil)
Air Frying
- Parboil Potatoes: Cut the potatoes into fourths and parboil them in a generous amount of water until just tender but not fully cooked.
- Cool Potatoes: Allow the potatoes to cool enough to handle safely, ensuring they are firm enough for grating.
- Grate Potatoes: Grate the cooled potatoes using the large holes of a grater, creating coarse shreds.
- Mix Ingredients: Gently place the grated potatoes in a bowl and add flour, salt, pepper, and finely chopped onions. Mix carefully to combine without mashing the potatoes.
- Rest Mixture: Let the mixture stand for about 5 minutes to help binding.
- Heat Oil: Heat oil in a deep fryer or heavy skillet to 355-360°F (180-182°C) for frying.
- Shape Tots: Take 1 1/2 teaspoons of potato mixture and shape it gently into the classic tater tot form.
- Fry Tots: Fry a few tots at a time in the hot oil until they turn golden brown and crispy, then drain on absorbent paper.
- Prepare for Air Frying: For air frying, chill the shaped tots first or use frozen tots. Lightly spray the tots with olive oil.
- Preheat Air Fryer: Set the air fryer to 400°F (204°C) and preheat.
- Air Fry Tots: Place the tots in a single layer in the air fryer basket without touching sides. Cook for about 10 minutes or until golden, turning gently after approximately 6 minutes for even cooking.
Notes
- Chilling the tots before air frying helps them hold shape and crisp better.
- You can use peanut oil for frying due to its high smoke point and neutral flavor.
- Be gentle when mixing and shaping the tots to maintain texture.
- Drain fried tots on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Air frying offers a healthier alternative to deep frying without compromising crispiness.
Keywords: tater tots, homemade tater tots, crispy potato bites, fried potatoes, air fryer tater tots, snack recipe