Crispy Potato Circles

Potatoes: 500g
Cornflour: 2 tbsp
Chili powder: 1 tsp
Salt: 1/2 tsp
Parsley: for garnish
Cooking oil: for frying
Water: for boiling

Directions:

Boil the Potatoes: In a pot, boil the potatoes in water for about 20 minutes or until tender. Once cooked, drain the water and allow the potatoes to cool slightly before peeling.
Mash the Potatoes: Mash the boiled potatoes until they are smooth and free of lumps. This will create a creamy base for your potato circles.
Mix Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes with cornflour, chili powder, and salt. Stir until the mixture is well combined and forms a slightly sticky dough.

Shape the Patties: Take small portions of the potato mixture and form them into small, circle-shaped patties, about 1/2 inch thick. Make sure they are uniform in size for even cooking.
Heat the Oil: Heat cooking oil in a pan over medium heat to approximately 140°C (285°F). This temperature is perfect for frying the patties to achieve that golden, crispy texture.
Fry the Potato Circles: Carefully place the potato circles in the hot oil and fry for about 5 minutes or until they are crispy and golden brown on both sides. You may need to do this in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
Garnish and Serve:

Once cooked, remove the potato circles from the oil and place them on a paper towel to absorb any excess oil. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Calories: 200 kcal per serving
Servings: 4 servings

Why This Recipe Works
Crispy Potato Circles work so well because they leverage the natural flavor and texture of potatoes. Boiling them until tender ensures a smooth mash, which is then combined with cornflour to create a crispy exterior when fried. The chili powder adds a subtle kick, enhancing the overall flavor without overpowering the comforting essence of the potato.

Frying at the right temperature is crucial; too hot, and the outside will burn before the inside cooks through, too cool, and they’ll absorb excess oil and become greasy. This balance is what makes these circles satisfying and delicious!

Tips for Perfecting Your Potato Circles
Choose the Right Potatoes: For the best results, use starchy potatoes like Russets or Idaho potatoes. They mash easily and provide a light texture.
Uniform Sizing: Ensure your patties are uniform in size for even cooking. You can use a cookie cutter for perfectly shaped circles.

Oil Temperature: Use a thermometer to check the oil temperature, as this will help achieve that coveted crispiness. If you don’t have a thermometer, drop a small piece of dough into the oil; if it sizzles and rises to the top, the oil is ready.
Batch Cooking: Fry in batches to avoid crowding the pan. This keeps the oil temperature stable and helps the potato circles cook evenly.
Serving Suggestions: These crispy circles can be served with various dips, such as sour cream, guacamole, or a spicy aioli. They also pair beautifully with fresh salads.