Imagine biting into a perfectly crispy, golden-brown tater tot that's not only gluten-free but bursting with the rich, sweet flavor of caramelized onions. These aren't your ordinary frozen potato bites – these are homemade, lovingly crafted tater tots that will transform your snack game forever! Whether you're looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer, a side dish that steals the show, or a comforting gluten-free treat, these tater tots are about to become your new culinary obsession.
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups grated potatoes
- 1 medium onion, caramelized
- 1/4 cup gluten-free flour
- 1 egg
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- Begin by preparing your ingredients. Peel and grate the potatoes using a box grater or food processor. Place the grated potatoes in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much excess moisture as possible. This step is crucial for achieving crispy tater tots.
- Next, caramelize the onion. Thinly slice the medium onion and heat a tablespoon of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and a pinch of salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 15-20 minutes, or until the onions are soft, golden brown, and caramelized. Remove from heat and let cool.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated potatoes, caramelized onions, gluten-free flour, and the egg. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Once the mixture is well combined, use your hands to form small, bite-sized tots. Aim for a size similar to a golf ball, then gently flatten them into a small cylinder shape. Place the formed tots on a parchment-lined baking sheet or plate.
- In a large skillet, heat enough oil for frying over medium-high heat. You want enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan, about 1/4 inch deep. To test if the oil is ready, drop a small piece of the mixture into the oil; it should sizzle immediately.
- Carefully add the tater tots to the hot oil in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to flip them halfway through cooking.
- Once cooked, transfer the tater tots to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Sprinkle with additional salt while they are still hot, if desired.
- Repeat the frying process until all the tater tots are cooked. Serve warm as a delicious side dish or snack. Enjoy your homemade gluten-free tater tots with your favorite dipping sauce!
Tips
- Moisture is the Enemy: The key to ultra-crispy tater tots is removing as much moisture from the potatoes as possible. Use a clean kitchen towel and squeeze those grated potatoes like your crispy dreams depend on it!
- Oil Temperature Matters: Use a cooking thermometer if possible, aiming for 350-375°F for the perfect fry. If you don't have a thermometer, test the oil by dropping a small piece of potato mixture – it should sizzle immediately but not burn.
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Fry in small batches to ensure each tater tot gets maximum crispiness. Overcrowding will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy, sad tots.
- Seasoning is Key: Don't be shy with salt and pepper. Taste your mixture before forming tots and adjust seasonings to your liking.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the tot mixture and form the shapes ahead of time. Store them on a parchment-lined baking sheet in the refrigerator for a few hours before frying.
- Dipping Sauce Suggestions: Pair these tots with homemade ranch, spicy aioli, or a tangy ketchup for an extra flavor boost!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 175kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
