Food 
Why Potatoes are the Ultimate Comfort Food for Vegans
Ah, potatoes! The humble tuber that has saved many a kitchen from the tyranny of bland meals. Whether they’re mashed, fried, roasted, or boiled, potatoes prove time and time again why they deserve a prime spot in our hearts and on our plates. For vegans, potatoes are a lifeline to hearty, comfort food that’s both satisfying and versatile.
Potatoes are the chameleons of the vegetable world. Their ability to soak up flavors and spices makes them incredibly versatile. They can morph into just about any dish you can dream up. Plus, who can resist a crispy, golden potato hash straight out of the skillet on a lazy Sunday morning? Not me, and probably not you either! So let’s get cracking on this Perfectly Spiced Potato Hash recipe that’s sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need for the Perfect Potato Hash
Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s gather all the ingredients you’ll need to make this delectable potato hash. Believe me, having everything laid out makes the whole cooking experience so much more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 4 medium-sized russet potatoes, peeled and diced (about 600g)
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp (2g) paprika
- 1/2 tsp (1g) ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp (1g) ground turmeric
- 1/2 tsp (1g) chili powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp (30ml) olive oil or your favorite cooking oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Depending on how adventurous you’re feeling with your hash, you might want to keep some extra spices handy. And if you’re like me, a smidgen more garlic never hurts!
Step-by-Step Guide to Crafting the Perfectly Spiced Potato Hash
Alright, let’s get down to business. Making the Perfectly Spiced Potato Hash is actually quite simple if you follow these steps:
- Prep the Potatoes: Start by peeling and dicing your potatoes into small, even cubes. Evenly-sized pieces cook more uniformly, ensuring some bites aren’t more done than others.
- Parboil the Potatoes: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and add the diced potatoes. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes or until they are just starting to become tender but not fully cooked. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the Onions and Peppers: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons (30ml) of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and diced red bell pepper. Sauté them for about 5 minutes or until they become soft and slightly caramelized.
- Add the Garlic and Spices: Stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for another minute. Now, add the paprika, ground cumin, ground turmeric, chili powder, and a pinch of salt and black pepper. Stir everything together, letting the spices release their magic.
- Combine and Cook: Add the parboiled potatoes to the skillet. Mix everything well so that the potatoes are well-coated with the spiced onion and pepper mixture. Pat everything down into an even layer across the skillet.
- Get Them Crispy: Allow the hash to cook undisturbed for about 5-7 minutes. Then, give it a good stir and pat it down again. Repeat this process a few times until the potatoes are crispy and golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve: Once your hash is beautifully golden and crispy, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley on top. This not only adds a pop of color but a fresh burst of flavor.
Serve your Perfectly Spiced Potato Hash hot, preferably with a side of avocado slices or a dollop of vegan sour cream.
Trust me, once you’ve had that first forkful, you’ll understand why potatoes have earned their comfortable spot in the vegan kitchen.
If you enjoyed this recipe or have suggestions on how we can improve it, please leave us a comment below. Also, make sure to check out other dishes I’ve created or stories I’ve written about food culture – here.
Until next time,
Keep it spicy,
Jade
