Yes, when you season pan-fried potatoes can make a difference in the final taste and texture of the dish. Here are a few approaches to consider:
Season before frying: This method involves seasoning the potatoes with salt and any desired herbs or spices before adding them to the pan. Seasoning in advance allows the flavors to penetrate the potatoes as they cook, resulting in a more evenly seasoned dish.
Season during frying: Alternatively, you can start frying the potatoes plain and season them with salt and spices midway through the cooking process. This can be useful if you're uncertain about the desired level of seasoning or want to taste and adjust as you go.
Season after frying: Some people prefer to pan-fry the potatoes without any seasoning and then add salt, pepper, or other spices after they are fully cooked. This approach gives you more control over the final seasoning and allows you to taste the potatoes in their natural state first.
Each method has its advantages, but it mostly comes down to personal preference. Some tips to keep in mind:
- If you season before frying, be cautious about adding too much salt, as the potatoes will reduce in size as they cook, concentrating the seasoning.
- If seasoning during frying, be mindful of the oil splattering when adding the salt or spices to the hot pan.
- When seasoning after frying, make sure the potatoes are still hot to help the spices stick to the surface better.
Ultimately, the key is to experiment and find the method that works best for you and suits your taste preferences.