These crispy mashed potato bites are a fantastic appetizer or snack. They’re made with a simple homemade dough, combined with creamy mashed potatoes, and fried to crispy perfection. The outside is golden and crunchy, while the inside remains soft and warm, making them irresistible. They are perfect for a gathering, family meal, or as a tasty side dish to complement your main courses.
Preparation Time
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup warm water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Mashed Potatoes:
- 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- Salt to taste
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup milk (or more for desired consistency)
For Frying:
- Vegetable oil (enough for frying)
Instructions
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Prepare the Mashed Potatoes:
- Peel and dice the potatoes into small cubes. Place them in a pot, cover with water, and add a pinch of salt.
- Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat and cook for about 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
- Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add butter and mash the potatoes until smooth and creamy. Add milk to achieve your desired consistency. Set the mashed potatoes aside to cool.
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Make the Dough:
- In a bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes foamy.
- Add the flour, salt, and olive oil to the yeast mixture. Stir to form a dough.
- Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl and cover with a clean cloth. Let it rise for about 30 minutes or until doubled in size.
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Assemble the Potato Bites:
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into small portions (about 1-2 tablespoons of dough per portion).
- Take a small ball of dough and flatten it into a round disc with your fingers.
- Place a spoonful of mashed potatoes in the center of each dough disc. Gently fold the edges of the dough around the mashed potatoes to seal the filling inside, forming a small ball or pocket.
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Fry the Potato Bites:
- Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat. There should be enough oil to submerge the potato bites halfway.
- Once the oil is hot, gently place the dough balls into the pan, making sure not to overcrowd them.
- Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until they turn golden brown and crispy.
- Remove the potato bites from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
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Serve:
- Serve the crispy mashed potato bites hot, with a dipping sauce of your choice, such as sour cream, ketchup, or a spicy mayo.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 150
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 2g
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Calcium: 40mg
- Vitamin C: 10mg
The Origins and Popularity of Crispy Potato Bites
Potatoes are a staple ingredient in cuisines worldwide, and fried potato dishes are some of the most beloved comfort foods. From French fries to tater tots, potatoes have a long history of being a versatile and delicious snack. Crispy potato bites, like those made from mashed potatoes and dough, are a popular variation that combines the best of both worlds—crispy exterior and creamy interior.
The origins of mashed potatoes date back to Europe, where potatoes were introduced in the 16th century. Mashed potatoes became a comfort food staple, especially in countries like Ireland, the UK, and the United States. Combining mashed potatoes with dough to create crispy bites is a more modern variation that takes inspiration from global fried snack traditions. This fusion of mashed potatoes and dough makes these bites incredibly indulgent, and their crispy texture adds an irresistible crunch.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These crispy mashed potato bites are the ultimate comfort food. The combination of warm, creamy mashed potatoes enclosed in golden, crunchy dough is an irresistible treat. Whether you serve them as an appetizer, snack, or side dish, they will be a hit with anyone who loves savory, fried foods. They’re easy to make, customizable with different fillings or dips, and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser at your next meal or gathering.
Health Benefits of Crispy Mashed Potato Bites
While these crispy bites are indulgent, they do offer some health benefits. Potatoes are rich in vitamin C, potassium, and fiber, which are essential for immune health, heart health, and digestive function. The mashed potatoes used in this recipe are made with minimal ingredients, which makes them a healthier option compared to pre-packaged versions. The addition of olive oil in the dough adds healthy fats that are beneficial for overall health. However, since they are fried, it’s best to enjoy them in moderation.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve these crispy potato bites with a refreshing salad, such as a simple mixed greens salad, for a balanced meal.
- Pair them with a side of dipping sauces, such as a tangy barbecue sauce, sour cream, or a spicy sriracha mayo.
- These bites are also great as part of a tapas-style meal, served with other small bites like stuffed mushrooms, bruschetta, or cheese-stuffed jalapeños.
Tips
- For an extra crispy texture, you can double-fry the potato bites. After the first fry, let them cool slightly and then fry them again for an extra crispy crust.
- If you prefer a healthier version, you can bake the potato bites at 180°C (350°F) for 20 minutes or until golden brown instead of frying them.
- To make these bites ahead of time, prepare and stuff the dough balls, then refrigerate them for up to 2 hours before frying.
Variations to Try
- Cheese Stuffed: Add shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese into the mashed potato filling for a cheesy version of these crispy bites.
- Herb Infusion: Add herbs like rosemary, thyme, or chives to the mashed potatoes for added flavor.
- Spicy Version: Mix in some chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes into the mashed potatoes for a spicy kick.
Conclusion
These crispy mashed potato bites are the ultimate snack or appetizer, combining the comforting flavors of mashed potatoes with the crunch of fried dough. They are easy to make, customizable, and sure to be a hit at any meal or gathering. Whether you make them for a casual family dinner or a party, these crispy bites will disappear fast, leaving everyone craving more!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dough and mashed potato filling ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. When ready, shape the dough into balls and fry them.
Can I bake these instead of frying them?
Yes, you can bake the bites in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 20 minutes or until they are golden and crispy.
Can I freeze these?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked potato bites for up to 2 months. Fry them directly from frozen, but add a few extra minutes to the frying time.