Hash browns

Hash browns or hashed browns are a simple preparation in which potato are pan-fried in a rectangular shape pattie after being shredded, julienned, diced, or riced, in the style of a Swiss Rosti. 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. Hash browns are a staple breakfast food at diners in North America, where they are often fried on a large common cooktop or grill.

In some parts of the United States, hash browns strictly refer to shredded or riced pan-fried potatoes and are considered a breakfast food (they are part of McDonald's breakfast combos), 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). Some recipes add diced or chopped onions.

History

Originally, the full name was "hashed brown potatoes" (or "hashed browned potatoes"), of which the first known mention is by food author Maria Parloa (1843–1909) in 1888. The name was gradually shortened to 'hash brown potatoes'. Bite sized Hash Browns, are small cylindrical dumplings, known as Tater Tots in the USA, and are sold commercially at diners and in frozen food aisle's in packets.