Stir-Fried Potatoes with Garlic and Scallions

Ingredients

• 2 Russet potatoes (large, peeled and julienned into matchsticks)
• 2 tbsp Neutral oil (such as vegetable or canola oil)
• 3 clove Garlic (thinly sliced)
• 2 Scallions (whites and greens separated, sliced into 1-inch lengths)
• 4 Dried red chilies (optional, for heat)
• 1 tbsp Light soy sauce
• 1 tsp Chinkiang vinegar (Chinese black vinegar; can substitute balsamic or rice vinegar)
• Salt (to taste)
• 0.5 tsp Sugar

Steps

1. 1

   Peel the potatoes and slice them into very thin planks, then stack the planks and slice them into thin matchsticks (julienne).

2. 2

   Place the potato matchsticks in a large bowl of cold water. Agitate them to release the starch, then drain. Repeat this rinsing process 2-3 times until the water runs clear. This is essential for a crisp texture.

3. 3

   Drain the potatoes thoroughly and pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to prevent steaming in the wok.

4. 4

   Heat a wok or large skillet over high heat until lightly smoking. Add the oil and swirl to coat.

5. 5

   Add the sliced garlic, scallion whites, and dried chilies (if using). Stir-fry for about 10-15 seconds until fragrant but not browned.

6. 6

   Add the potatoes to the wok. Stir-fry vigorously over high heat for 2-3 minutes. The potatoes should begin to turn slightly translucent but still retain a firm, crisp snap.

7. 7

   Drizzle the soy sauce and vinegar around the edges of the wok so they sizzle before hitting the ingredients. Add the sugar and a pinch of salt.

8. 8

   Toss in the scallion greens and stir-fry for another 30 seconds to combine all flavors.

9. 9

   Transfer to a plate and serve immediately while the potatoes are still crunchy.

Notes

The key to this dish is the rinsing step. If you don't rinse the starch off, the potatoes will turn into a gummy mass. You want them to have the texture of a crisp apple or water chestnut. If you prefer a more sour profile, increase the Chinkiang vinegar at the end.

Nutrition per serving

• side dish
• vegetarian
• vegan
• stir-fried
• potato
• chinese
• quick meal
• crunchy