Potato Pillows
Potato Pillows are a delightful twist on traditional fried potato snacks that are sure to become a favorite in your household. These fluffy, golden bites are crispy on the outside and wonderfully soft on the inside. Perfect for dipping in ketchup or your favorite sauce, Potato Pillows are not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re serving them as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, these little pillows of joy are bound to impress. Let’s dive into the world of Potato Pillows and uncover how to make them at home!
Why It Works Every Time
The secret to the perfect Potato Pillows lies in the balance of ingredients and cooking techniques. Using large Russet potatoes ensures that you have a starchy base that holds together beautifully during frying. The addition of all-purpose flour and cornstarch creates a light, crispy exterior that contrasts perfectly with the tender potato filling. The simple seasoning of salt and pepper enhances the natural flavor of the potatoes without overpowering them. When deep-fried in vegetable oil, the result is a crunchy, golden-brown snack that you won’t be able to resist.
What’s in the Bowl
- 2 large Russet potatoes: The star ingredient that provides the base for your Potato Pillows. Choose firm potatoes for the best texture.
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour: This helps bind the mixture together and contributes to that crispy exterior.
- 1 tbsp cornstarch: Adds an extra crunch to the outside of the pillows.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing the flavor of the potatoes.
- Vegetable oil for frying: Choose a neutral oil with a high smoke point, like canola or sunflower oil, to achieve the best fry.
- Ketchup: A classic dipping sauce that complements the flavor of the Potato Pillows perfectly.
Gear Checklist
- Large pot or deep fryer: Essential for frying the Potato Pillows evenly.
- Potato masher or ricer: For achieving a smooth potato mixture.
- Mixing bowl: To combine all the ingredients seamlessly.
- Slotted spoon: Ideal for removing the pillows from hot oil without excess grease.
- Paper towels: To drain any excess oil after frying.
Potato Pillows Cooking Guide
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Begin by peeling the large Russet potatoes and cutting them into smaller chunks. This will help them cook more evenly.
Step 2: Boil the Potatoes
Place the potato chunks into a large pot and cover them with cold water. Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat and cook until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.
Step 3: Mash the Potatoes
Once cooked, drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Use a potato masher or ricer to mash them until smooth. Allow the mashed potatoes to cool slightly.
Step 4: Mix in the Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes with the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined and a dough-like consistency forms.
Step 5: Shape the Pillows
Using your hands, take small portions of the potato mixture and roll them into small pillow shapes, about 1 to 2 inches in size. Make sure they are compact to prevent them from falling apart during frying.
Step 6: Heat the Oil
In a large pot or deep fryer, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil over medium heat. You can test if the oil is ready by dropping a small piece of the potato mixture into it; if it sizzles, the oil is hot enough.
Step 7: Fry the Potato Pillows
Carefully place a few Potato Pillows into the hot oil, being cautious not to overcrowd the pot. Fry them for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to turn them occasionally for even cooking.
Step 8: Drain and Serve
Once the Potato Pillows are cooked, remove them from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Serve immediately with ketchup for dipping!
Quick Replacement Ideas
- For a gluten-free option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- For added flavor: Mix in grated cheese or fresh herbs into the potato mixture.
- For a vegan version: Ensure that the oil used for frying is plant-based and consider omitting the eggs if a recipe calls for them.
- For a different texture: Try using sweet potatoes instead of Russet potatoes for a sweeter flavor.
If You’re Curious
Potato Pillows are similar to other potato-based snacks around the world, such as gnocchi or croquettes. Each culture has its unique take on how to prepare and season potatoes, making this humble vegetable a versatile ingredient in global cuisine. The beauty of making your own Potato Pillows is that you can customize them to suit your tastes, whether that’s by adding spices, herbs, or different dipping sauces.
Prep Ahead & Store
If you want to prepare Potato Pillows in advance, you can shape them and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before frying. Alternatively, you can freeze them for longer storage. To do this, lay the shaped pillows on a baking sheet and freeze them until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to enjoy, fry them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Ask & Learn
Can I bake Potato Pillows instead of frying them?
While frying gives the best texture, you can bake them at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes. Just be sure to spray them with oil for a crispier result.
How do I know when the oil is hot enough for frying?
A simple way to check is to drop a small piece of the potato mixture into the oil. If it sizzles and rises to the surface, the oil is ready for frying.
Can I use other types of potatoes for this recipe?
Yes! While Russet potatoes are ideal, you can experiment with Yukon Gold or even sweet potatoes for different flavors and textures.
What can I serve with Potato Pillows besides ketchup?
Potato Pillows pair well with a variety of dips such as ranch dressing, spicy aioli, or even a tangy barbecue sauce for a fun twist.
Keep Cooking
- For more delicious potato recipes, check out Sally’s Baking Addiction.
- Need inspiration for sauces? Visit Pinch of Yum for creative ideas.
- Looking for plant-based recipes? Explore Minimalist Baker for simple and tasty options.
- Join the community at Food Blogger Pro to learn more about cooking and blogging.
Serve & Enjoy
Now that you have all the knowledge and steps needed to create delicious Potato Pillows, it’s time to gather your friends and family for a delightful tasting experience. These crispy morsels will be a hit, bringing everyone together around the table. Enjoy the process of cooking and, more importantly, savor every bite of these amazing Potato Pillows! Whether you make them for a cozy night in, a party, or just as a fun snack, they are sure to become a beloved addition to your recipe repertoire. Happy cooking!
Potato Pillows
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by peeling the large Russet potatoes and cutting them into smaller chunks.
- Place the potato chunks into a large pot and cover them with cold water. Bring the water to a boil and cook until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Once cooked, drain the potatoes and mash them until smooth. Allow to cool slightly.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes with flour, cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Mix until a dough-like consistency forms.
- Shape small portions of the potato mixture into pillow shapes, about 1 to 2 inches.
- Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a large pot. Test if the oil is ready by dropping a small piece of the potato mixture into it.
- Carefully place a few Potato Pillows into the hot oil and fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Remove the cooked Potato Pillows from the oil and drain on paper towels. Serve immediately with ketchup.
Notes
- For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free flour instead of all-purpose flour.
- Mix in grated cheese or fresh herbs for added flavor.
- Shape and refrigerate Potato Pillows for up to 24 hours before frying.
