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Homemade Tater Tots Recipe

4.5 from 128 reviews

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.

Ingredients

Scale

Potatoes

  • 2 pounds 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

  • Olive oil spray

Instructions

  1. Parboil Potatoes: Cut the potatoes into fourths and parboil them in a generous amount of water until just tender but not fully cooked.
  2. Cool Potatoes: Allow the potatoes to cool enough to handle safely, ensuring they are firm enough for grating.
  3. Grate Potatoes: Grate the cooled potatoes using the large holes of a grater, creating coarse shreds.
  4. 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.
  5. Rest Mixture: Let the mixture stand for about 5 minutes to help binding.
  6. Heat Oil: Heat oil in a deep fryer or heavy skillet to 355-360°F (180-182°C) for frying.
  7. Shape Tots: Take 1 1/2 teaspoons of potato mixture and shape it gently into the classic tater tot form.
  8. 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.
  9. Prepare for Air Frying: For air frying, chill the shaped tots first or use frozen tots. Lightly spray the tots with olive oil.
  10. Preheat Air Fryer: Set the air fryer to 400°F (204°C) and preheat.
  11. 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