Hash brown

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Hashbrowns in patty form

Hash browns or hashed browns are a simple potato preparation in which potato pieces are pan-fried after being diced, riced, shredded, or julienned. Although in some cultural contexts, hash browns or hashed browns may refer to any of these cuts of potato, people in some cultural contexts may reserve the term to describe a more specific preparation.

In some parts of the United States, hash browns may refer strictly to riced, pan-fried potatoes, and may be considered a breakfast food, while potatoes diced and pan-fried are a side dish called home fries or country fried potatoes (though many variations of home fries are par-cooked before frying). In some countries diced or chopped onion can be added to improve taste and texture.

A chef may prepare hash browns by forming riced potatoes into patties before frying; however, depending on the liaison (binding agent), such a preparation might constitute a potato pancake. Hash browns that include meats, fruits, or vegetables are widely known simply as hash.