Have you ever wanted a snack that’s both crispy and irresistibly cheesy? Well, you’re in for a treat! Let me introduce you to the ultimate indulgence—potato cheese sticks! In this post, I’ll guide you through the secrets of making these deliciously golden, cheesy delights that will have you coming back for more.
EQUIPMENT
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spoons and forks
- Strainer
- Spatula
- Wooden spoon
- Mixing bowl
- Large pot
- Frying pan
INGREDIENTS
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- ¼ cup diced green onion
- ½ cup sour cream
- 3 russet potatoes, cooked and cubed
- ¼ cup diced bacon
- 1 block cheddar cheese, cut into strips
- ⅔ cup cornstarch
- 100g panko breadcrumbs
- Flour (for coating)
- 1 egg (beaten)
- 1 liter vegetable, canola, or peanut oil
INSTRUCTIONS
- Prepare the potato mixture: In a large mixing bowl, mash the cooked russet potatoes along with the diced bacon, green onions, sour cream, salt, and pepper. Use a potato masher or fork until mostly smooth, leaving small chunks for texture.
- Shape the potato sticks: Cut the cheddar cheese into ¼-inch thick strips. Take a spoonful of the mashed potato mixture, flatten it in your palm, and place a cheese strip in the center. Wrap the potato mixture around the cheese, forming a ball or log shape. Ensure the cheese is fully enclosed. Repeat until all the potato mixture is used.
- Coating process: Set up three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten egg, and one with a mixture of cornstarch and panko breadcrumbs. Coat each potato stick in flour, dip it into the beaten egg, and then roll it in the breadcrumb mixture until fully covered.
- Frying method: In a deep fryer or large pot, heat the oil to 350°F (180°C). Carefully place the coated potato sticks into the hot oil using tongs. Fry for about 3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
- Draining excess oil: Once fried, transfer the potato sticks onto a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil. While still hot, sprinkle with a little salt for extra flavor.
- Baking alternative: For a baked version, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the coated potato sticks on a parchment-lined baking sheet, drizzle lightly with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt. Bake for about 15 minutes or until golden brown and the cheese is fully melted inside.
- Serving: Let the potato cheese sticks cool slightly before serving, as the cheese will be very hot. Enjoy them as a delicious snack or appetizer!
NOTES
- Use cold mashed potatoes for a firmer dough consistency.
- Refrigerate the shaped potato cheese sticks for 30 minutes before frying to help them hold their shape.
- Swap cheddar for mozzarella or pepper jack for a different flavor.
- Double-coat the sticks for an extra crispy crust.
- Add seasonings like garlic powder, paprika, or herbs to the potato mixture for added depth of flavor.
