Hash brown

Hash browns are a potato dish typically made from shredded, diced, or otherwise chopped potatoes that are fried until browned and crisp.

Hash browns are a potato dish made from shredded, diced, or chopped potatoes fried until browned and crisp. They are a common breakfast side dish in North America.

What it is

Hash browns are a potato preparation typically made by frying shredded, chopped, or diced potatoes in fat or oil until golden brown. They are often served as a breakfast side dish in diners and home cooking across North America. Common styles include shredded hash browns, patties, country-style cubes, and O'Brien hash browns with peppers and onions.

Key details

The dish is widely associated with breakfast service, especially in diners. It is also sold commercially in frozen, refrigerated, and dehydrated forms. Some recipes include onion, but it is not required. The name is usually written in the plural, though variant spellings like 'hashed browns' are used.

Why it matters

Hash browns are a familiar part of North American food culture, particularly in Canada, where they appear on diner menus, fast-food breakfasts, and home tables. Their convenience as a packaged food and versatility in preparation make them a staple breakfast side dish.