Bratkartoffeln Recipe German Home Fries

So, I whipped up this crispy potato and bacon skillet the other day, and let me tell you, it was a game-changer! The combination of golden-brown potatoes and crispy bacon, topped with fresh herbs, made for the ultimate comfort food experience that totally hit the spot!

I love making Bratkartoffeln, or German Home Fries, for a hearty side dish. Using waxy potatoes ensures they stay firm and flavorful.

The diced bacon adds a savory richness, while finely chopped onions provide a subtle sweetness. I think a sprinkle of fresh parsley perfectly finishes this classic dish.

Bratkartoffeln Recipe German Home Fries Ingredients

• Waxy potatoes: Provide carbohydrates and dietary fiber; essential for energy.
• Onion: Adds flavor and nutrients; known for antioxidant properties.
• Bacon or speck: Provides protein and savory richness; enhances umami taste.
• Vegetable oil or clarified butter: Supplies healthy fats; supports satiety in meals.
• Salt: Enhances flavor; used in moderation for balance.
• Black pepper: Adds mild heat and depth; offers antioxidants and piperine.

Bratkartoffeln Recipe German Home Fries Ingredient Quantities

• 500g waxy potatoes (about 4 medium-sized), peeled and boiled
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 100g bacon or speck, diced
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or clarified butter
• Salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Optional: chopped fresh parsley or chives for garnish

How to Make this Bratkartoffeln Recipe German Home Fries

1. Slice the boiled potatoes into 1/4-inch thick rounds and set aside.

2. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of oil or clarified butter.

3. Add the diced bacon or speck to the skillet and cook until crispy, then remove and set aside, leaving the fat in the pan.

4. Increase the heat to medium-high and add the sliced potatoes in a single layer, allowing them to fry until golden brown on one side.

5. Flip the potatoes carefully to ensure even browning on the other side, adding more oil or clarified butter if necessary.

6. Once the potatoes are browned and crispy, reduce the heat to medium, add the chopped onion, and stir gently.

7. Cook the onions until they are soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.

8. Return the cooked bacon or speck to the skillet, mixing them with the potatoes and onions.

9. Season the mixture with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

10. Optional: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or chives before serving. Serve immediately.

Bratkartoffeln Recipe German Home Fries Equipment Needed

1. Knife
2. Cutting board
3. Large skillet
4. Spatula or tongs
5. Measuring spoons

FAQ

• Can I use leftover potatoes instead of freshly boiled? Yes, using leftover boiled potatoes is actually common in making Bratkartoffeln, as it helps them hold their shape and get crispier.
• What type of potatoes is best for this recipe? Waxy potatoes are ideal as they hold their shape during frying and have a nice, firm texture.
• Is clarified butter better than vegetable oil? Clarified butter adds a rich flavor and can handle higher temperatures without burning, but vegetable oil is also a great choice if you prefer.
• Can I omit the bacon for a vegetarian version? Yes, you can omit the bacon for a vegetarian version. You might need to adjust seasoning and add some extra flavor, such as smoked paprika.
• How do I ensure the potatoes get crispy? Make sure the potatoes are dry before frying and do not overcrowd the pan, so they have room to crisp up.
• What can I serve with Bratkartoffeln? They can be served as a side dish with schnitzel, sausages or eggs, and a salad to complement the meal.
• Can I prepare Bratkartoffeln in advance? You can boil the potatoes in advance and keep them in the fridge, but it’s best to fry them fresh for optimal crispness.

Bratkartoffeln Recipe German Home Fries Substitutions and Variations

• Instead of waxy potatoes, use Yukon Gold potatoes.
• Substitute the onion with shallots for a milder flavor.
• Replace bacon or speck with pancetta or turkey bacon for a different twist.
• Opt for olive oil in place of vegetable oil or clarified butter for a distinct taste.
• Use freshly cracked white pepper instead of black pepper for a subtler flavor.

Pro Tips

1. Use Cold Potatoes After boiling the potatoes, let them cool completely and chill in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight. Cold potatoes are firmer, making them easier to slice and less likely to fall apart when frying.

2. Uniform Slicing Slice the potatoes into even 1/4-inch thick rounds to ensure they cook at the same rate and achieve a consistent texture across all pieces.

3. Crispier Potatoes When frying the potatoes, avoid overcrowding the skillet. Cook them in batches if necessary to allow each slice to brown and crisp evenly.

4. Flavor Infusion Before adding the onions, consider deglazing the pan with a splash of white wine or chicken broth to incorporate more flavor into the dish.

5. Bacon Timing To keep the bacon crispy, add it back to the skillet right before serving instead of mixing it with the potatoes earlier, as the moisture from the onions can soften it.