Crispy Hash Browns

PERFECTLY CRISPY HASH BROWNS

Serves 4

Ingredients
2 1/2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled
6 tablespoons unsalted butter 
1 teaspoon kosher salt, or to taste
freshly ground pepper, to taste

Directions

Take your peeled potatoes and grate them with the large-holed side of a cheese grater, or use the coarse grating blade in your food processor.

Transfer potato shreds to a large bowl of water and let them soak, stirring occasionally, until starches are released and water is murky.  Rinse under running water until runoff is clean.

Place potatoes (in batches, if necessary) in a cheesecloth or clean kitchen towel, and wrap and wring until thoroughly drained and as dry as possible. 

Repeat.

After you’ve drained them, put potatoes on a paper towel-lined plate and microwave on high for 2 minutes to par-cook them.

Transfer cooked potatoes to a large bowl and season with salt and pepper, adding more or less to taste.

Heat butter in a large, non-stick pan or skillet over medium heat until frothy. Skim off top solids, then, once hot, add potatoes and flatten them out into a 1/4-inch thick, even layer. Note: butter is hot enough when you drop a few shreds of potato in and they sizzle. 

Cook potatoes undisturbed for 5-6 minutes, or until a golden crust has formed on the bottom.

Flip potatoes over and cook for another 5-6 minutes, or until other side is also golden brown.

Top with more salt, if desired, and serve immediately.