Hash browns Information & Hash browns Links at HealthHaven.com

Hashbrowns frying in oil.

Hash browns or hashed browns are a simple potato preparation in which potato pieces are pan-fried after being shredded, julienned, diced, or riced. In some cultures, hash browns or hashed browns can refer to any of these preparations, while in others it may refer to one specific preparation. In parts of the UK, hash browns can mean fried left over mashed potato. Hash browns are a staple breakfast food at diners in North America, where they are often fried on a large common cooktop or griddle. Often they are pressed with a potato ricer to remove moisture and to give a crispier texture. They are commonly served with breakfast or as a side dish with steaks.

In some parts of the United States, hash browns strictly refer to shredded or riced, pan-fried potatoes, and are considered a breakfast food, while potatoes diced or cubed and pan-fried are also a side dish called country fried potatoes or home fries (though many variations of home fries are par-cooked before frying).

A chef may prepare hash browns by forming riced potatoes into patties before frying (moisture and potato starch can hold them together); however, if a binding agent is added (egg for example), such a preparation constitutes a potato pancake. Frozen hash browns are sometimes made into patty form for ease of handling, the compact flat shape can also be cooked in a toaster oven or toaster.

Originally, the full name was 'hashed brown potatoes' (or 'hashed browned potatoes'). The name was gradually shortened to 'hash brown potatoes' (1945, H.L. Mencken), until the most common name had become simply 'hash browns' around 1970. If a dish of hash browned potatoes incorporates chopped meat, leftovers, or other vegetables it is more commonly referred to as hash.