Prepare the Potatoes:
Peel and Cut: Peel the potatoes and cut them into chunks.
Boil: Place the potato chunks in a pot of water and bring to a boil. Cook until the potatoes are soft and cooked through, about 15-20 minutes. Drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly.
Make the Potato Mixture:
Mash: Mash the cooked potatoes in a bowl until smooth.
Add Cornstarch and Seasoning: Add 4 tablespoons of cornstarch, salt, and black pepper to taste. Mix until well combined.
Prepare the Cheese Mixture:
Grate Cheese: Grate 100 grams of mozzarella cheese.
Mix with Parsley: In a small bowl, mix the grated mozzarella cheese with chopped parsley.
Form the Potato Squares:
Shape the Squares: Take a portion of the potato mixture and flatten it in your hand. Place a small amount of the cheese mixture in the center and fold the potato mixture around it to form a ball. Flatten the ball into a square shape. Repeat with the remaining potato and cheese mixture.
Fry the Potato Squares:
Heat Oil: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Fry: Fry the potato squares in batches until golden brown and crispy on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
Prepare the Optional Sauce:
Mix Ingredients: In a small bowl, mix 3 tablespoons sour cream, 1 tablespoon ketchup, 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon paprika, and 1 tablespoon mayonnaise until well combined.
Serve:
Serve Hot: Serve the crispy potato squares hot with the optional dipping sauce on the side.
Tips and Sharing:
Variations: Experiment with different cheeses such as cheddar or gouda for a unique flavor. You can also add other herbs like chives or dill to the potato mixture.
Serving Suggestion: These potato squares make a great side dish for grilled meats or a standalone snack. Pair with a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness.
Customization: Add a bit of spice by incorporating chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the potato mixture.
Batch Cooking: This recipe can be easily doubled or tripled if you’re serving a larger crowd or want to have extra on hand for later.
Why This Recipe Works:
This recipe works because it transforms simple ingredients into a flavorful and satisfying dish. The combination of mashed potatoes with cornstarch creates a dough that’s easy to work with and fries up to a perfect golden brown. The melted mozzarella center adds a delightful surprise with each bite, and the optional dipping sauce enhances the overall flavor experience. The balance of textures and flavors makes these potato squares irresistibly delicious.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a quick, easy, and incredibly tasty dish, these crispy potato squares are the answer. With minimal ingredients and simple steps, you can create a meal that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe proves that you don’t need meat to make a delicious and satisfying dish. Try it today and see why these potato squares are tastier than meat!
Enjoy your delicious and crispy potato squares!
