Fried Potatoes with Onions and Ham: A Comforting Classic
Fried potatoes with onions and ham is a beloved comfort food enjoyed across cultures, prized for its simplicity, heartiness, and versatility. This dish, often known as “home fries” or “country-style potatoes,” is a satisfying blend of crispy potatoes, savory ham, and sweet, caramelized onions. Whether served for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, this dish is sure to bring warmth and a comforting vibe to the table.
Ingredients Needed
To make this savory delight, you’ll need only a few simple ingredients:
- Potatoes: Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best for frying, as they have a starchy, fluffy interior and a crispy outer texture when cooked.
- Onions: Yellow onions add a touch of sweetness when caramelized, balancing out the savoriness of the ham and potatoes.
- Ham: Diced ham adds a salty richness to the dish. Leftover ham from holiday meals can be a great option.
- Oil or Butter: This will help the potatoes fry up golden and delicious.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste, but be mindful that ham can already be quite salty.
Optional seasonings like garlic, fresh herbs, or paprika can add layers of flavor. Some even add cheese for an extra level of indulgence.
Preparation Steps
- Prepare the Ingredients:
- Peel and dice the potatoes into small, uniform cubes (about 1/2 inch in size) for even cooking.
- Dice the onion and ham into similarly small pieces to create a harmonious blend of flavors.
- Par-cook the Potatoes:
- To ensure they cook evenly, it can be helpful to par-boil the potatoes for 3–5 minutes or until they’re just fork-tender. Drain well and let them cool slightly before frying.
- Sauté the Onions and Ham:
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat, adding a small amount of oil or butter.
- Add the onions and sauté until they begin to soften, about 3–4 minutes. Then add the ham, cooking until the ham is golden brown and the onions are caramelized, about 5 more minutes. Remove the onions and ham from the skillet and set aside.
- Fry the Potatoes:
- In the same skillet, add a bit more oil or butter if necessary, and turn the heat up to medium-high.
- Add the potatoes in a single layer, season with salt and pepper, and cook, stirring occasionally, until golden and crispy on all sides, about 10–15 minutes.
- Combine and Serve:
- Once the potatoes are nicely browned, add the onions and ham back into the skillet, mixing everything together. Cook for an additional 2–3 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs well with eggs, bacon, or toast for a hearty breakfast, but it’s equally delicious on its own or served alongside a simple green salad or vegetable medley. Top with freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of cheese for added richness.
Variations to Try
- Add Garlic and Herbs: Sauté minced garlic with the onions or add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for an aromatic twist.
- Cheesy Fried Potatoes: Sprinkle shredded cheese over the potatoes while they’re still hot for a melted, cheesy finish.
- Vegetable Additions: Green peppers, mushrooms, or tomatoes can bring a fresh element to this dish, adding more texture and flavor.
- Spicy Kick: For a hint of spice, add a dash of smoked paprika, chili flakes, or even diced jalapeños.
Why We Love This Dish
Fried potatoes with onions and ham bring out the best qualities of simple, humble ingredients. The textures of crispy potatoes, tender onions, and juicy ham make each bite a perfect balance of flavors. Plus, this recipe is incredibly adaptable, making it an easy go-to option for any meal, any time of day.
Whether you’re using up leftovers or creating a fresh batch from scratch, fried potatoes with onions and ham is a classic that never disappoints. Its heartiness and versatility make it a dish that’s worth returning to, time and again.
