Crunchy Deep Fried Potato Peels

Deep Fried Potato Peels are a delicious and tasty appetizer, a leftover recipe that allows you to recycle that part that is usually discarded. Preparing them at home is quick and easy: just wash the potatoes thoroughly with a brush, remove the skins with the appropriate mandolin and fry them in plenty of seed oil brought to a temperature of about 340°F/170°C: the result is crispy and golden chips, to be enjoyed piping hot at your fingertips and accompanied by delicious spicy, hot or sweet and sour sauces, depending on your personal preferences.

What Are Fried Potato Peels?

Fried potato peels have a surprisingly rich history that dates back to humble European origins. The practice of frying potato skins likely began as a way to make use of what would otherwise be discarded. In Italy and other parts of Europe, the concept of "cucina povera" (poor kitchen) encouraged resourcefulness, turning potato peels into a crispy, savory snack. When immigrants from Europe arrived in the United States in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, they brought these frugal cooking traditions with them. Over time, fried potato peels became a popular appetizer or side dish, especially in American bars and casual dining establishments. Today, they are seen as a sustainable and delicious way to enjoy the full potential of the potato, widely loved across the U.S. for their crispy texture and savory appeal.

Pro Tips fro The Best Fried Potato Peels

• Scrub the potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt or pesticides, especially if you're keeping the skin on.
• After peeling, pat the skins dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. This helps them crisp up when fried.
• Immediately sprinkle salt or your favorite seasonings on the fried peels while they're still hot, so the flavors stick.
• Don’t overcrowd the frying pan—this ensures the peels fry evenly and get crispy rather than soggy.
• For extra crispiness, fry the peels once, let them rest for a minute, and then fry them again for an even crunchier finish.

Are Potato Peels Healthy to Consume?

Yes, potato peels are healthy to consume and offer several nutritional benefits. They are rich in fiber, which aids digestion and helps maintain a healthy gut. Potato skins also contain vitamins like Vitamin C, B6, and various antioxidants, which can help fight free radicals and support overall health. Additionally, the peels are packed with potassium, which is essential for heart health. Just make sure to clean the peels thoroughly to remove any dirt or pesticides before consuming them.

Can I Bake or Air Fry Them Instead?

Yes, you can absolutely bake or air fry potato peels instead of frying them for a healthier alternative! Both methods will give you crispy results without the extra oil.

• To bake: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the potato peels in a little olive oil and your favorite seasonings, then spread them out on a baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re golden and crispy.
• To air fry: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Toss the peels with a light coating of oil and seasoning, then cook in a single layer for about 10–12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even crisping.

What Can I Use to Season Them?

Once fried, you can simply sprinkle them with a pinch of salt, flavor them with paprika or other spices of your choice, or perfume them with fresh aromatic herbs, such as thyme, rosemary and marjoram.

For an even more delicious version, you can sprinkle them with grated pecorino and a pinch of pepper or serve them with a drizzle of honey, without salting them, if you love sweet flavors.

What Can I Serve Alongside Deep Fried Potato Peels?

You can dip them in homemade mayonnaise, in ketchup, just like classic fries, or even in a sauce made by mixing natural Greek yogurt, grainy mustard, lemon juice, salt and pepper: it will be impossible to stop. You can serve them at brunch time or offer them to your guests at the beginning of a special dinner, together with a glass of prosecco.

Can I Make Them Ahead of Time?

Yes, you can make fried potato peels ahead of time! Once they've been cooked and cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1-2 days. To keep them crispy, avoid covering them tightly with plastic wrap, as it can trap moisture. If you need to store them for longer, you can refrigerate them and reheat them in the oven or air fryer to restore their crunch.

Do They Freeze Well?

Yes, you can freeze fried potato peels! To do so, let them cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze them for about an hour. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. When you’re ready to eat them, just reheat them in the oven or air fryer to restore their crispy texture. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months in the freezer.

How to Store Any Leftovers

To store leftover fried potato peels, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1-2 days. If you want to keep them crisp, avoid sealing them in a plastic bag that might trap moisture. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them, but they may lose some of their crispiness. To restore their crunch, reheat in the oven or air fryer.

How to Make Deep Fried Potato Peels

First, brush the potatoes well.

Wash them under cold running water and then dry them.

Using a potato peeler, remove the peel, obtaining strips approximately 6-7 cm long and 2 cm wide.

Continue until you have used up all the potatoes.

Place the peels on a tea towel.

Dab to remove any additional vegetation water.

Pour plenty of oil into a saucepan and bring to a temperature of 340-350°F/170-180°C.

Fry the potato peels a handful at a time for about a couple of minutes..

When they are golden brown, drain them on kitchen paper.

Transfer the potato peels to a serving dish and sprinkle with a pinch of salt.

Serve the potato skins piping hot, accompanied with sauces of your choice. Enjoy!