If you're a fan of breakfast foods or looking for an easy side dish, shredded hash browns are a delicious option. One cup (84 g) of shredded hash browns has only 70 calories, making them a low-calorie addition to your meal. But what else is in these popular shredded potatoes?
In addition to being low in calories, shredded hash browns are also low in fat and high in carbohydrates. A one-cup serving contains 17 grams of carbohydrates, 1 gram of fiber, and 1 gram of protein.
In this article, we'll explore the nutritional value of shredded hash browns, provide tips on cooking them, and suggest ways to enjoy them as part of a healthy diet.
Calories in Shredded Hash Browns
As mentioned earlier, one cup (84 g) of shredded hash browns contains only 70 calories. If you're watching your calorie intake, shredded hash browns are a great option for breakfast or as a side dish.
Carbohydrates in Shredded Hash Browns
Shredded hash browns are a good source of carbohydrates, with one cup (84 g) containing 17 grams of carbs. Carbohydrates are an important part of a healthy diet, providing energy for the body to function properly.
Fiber in Shredded Hash Browns
While shredded hash browns are not a significant source of fiber, one cup (84 g) contains 1 gram of fiber. Fiber is important for maintaining good digestive health and can help keep you feeling fuller for longer.
Protein in Shredded Hash Browns
Shredded hash browns are not a significant source of protein, with one cup (84 g) containing only 1 gram of protein. However, they can be paired with other protein-rich foods to create a balanced meal.
Fat in Shredded Hash Browns
Shredded hash browns are low in fat, with one cup (84 g) containing only 0.1 grams of fat. This makes them a great option for those watching their fat intake.
Vitamins in Shredded Hash Browns
Shredded hash browns contain several important vitamins, including vitamin C and vitamin B6. Vitamin C is important for immune system function and skin health, while vitamin B6 is important for brain function and the nervous system.
Minerals in Shredded Hash Browns
Shredded hash browns also contain several important minerals, including potassium, iron, and calcium. Potassium is important for maintaining healthy blood pressure, while iron is important for oxygen transport in the body. Calcium is important for building strong bones and teeth.
How to Cook Shredded Hash Browns
Shredded hash browns can be cooked in a variety of ways, including in a skillet, in the oven, or in a waffle maker. To cook in a skillet, heat a small amount of oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shredded hash browns and cook until golden brown, flipping once. To cook in the oven, preheat the oven to 450°F. Spread the shredded hash browns in an even layer on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until crispy.
Top 10 Ways to Serve Shredded Hash Browns
1. Top with a fried egg and avocado for a healthy breakfast. 2. Use as a base for a breakfast burrito. 3. Top with cheese and bacon for a decadent breakfast side dish.
Health Benefits of Shredded Hash Browns
Shredded hash browns are a low-calorie, low-fat, and high-carbohydrate food that can provide energy for the body. They also contain important vitamins and minerals that are essential for good health. When cooked in a healthy way, shredded hash browns can be a healthy and delicious addition to your diet.
There's nothing quite like a crispy, golden hash brown to start your day off on the right foot.
5 Frequently Asked Questions About Shredded Hash Browns
1. What are shredded hash browns?
Shredded hash browns are thin strips of potatoes that are grated or shredded into small, thin pieces. They are often used for making breakfast dishes such as hash brown potatoes, breakfast casseroles, or as a side dish to eggs or bacon.
2. How are shredded hash browns made?
Shredded hash browns are typically made by grating or shredding potatoes using a box grater or food processor. The potatoes are then rinsed and squeezed to get rid of excess starch, which can cause the hash browns to stick together during cooking. They can then be seasoned with salt, pepper, or other spices before being cooked in a skillet or baked in the oven.
3. How should shredded hash browns be cooked?
Shredded hash browns can be cooked a variety of ways, depending on the desired consistency and texture. They can be fried in a skillet with butter or oil until crisp and golden brown on both sides, or baked in the oven for a healthier option. Some recipes also call for cooking the hash browns in a waffle iron, which creates a unique and crispy texture.
4. What are some recipes that use shredded hash browns?
Shredded hash browns can be used in a variety of breakfast dishes, such as breakfast burritos, breakfast casseroles, and egg scrambles. They can also be used as a base for potato pancakes, or as a side dish to bacon and eggs. Shredded hash browns can even be used to make sweet potato hash browns for a healthy twist on the classic recipe.
5. Are shredded hash browns healthy?
Shredded hash browns can be a healthy addition to a breakfast meal when cooked in a healthy manner, such as baking them in the oven instead of frying them in oil. Potatoes contain vitamins and minerals such as potassium, vitamin C, and fiber, which can be beneficial to overall health. However, shredded hash browns should be consumed in moderation, as they can be high in calories and carbohydrates.