Hash browns are common morning delicacies. They typically comprise diced potatoes, salt, and pepper. Some folks like to add eggs and flour, among other items.
Are hashbrowns bad for you?
No. Hash browns are healthy when made without butter or oil. They have a rich nutritional profile that consists of vitamin C, phosphorous, potassium, copper, vitamin B6, niacin, manganese, and pantothenic acid. Hash browns are also rich in fiber – you can eat as much as you want to lose weight. If you eat a lot of fat daily, you may want to check your portion size. Too much fat is linked to inflammation.
Hash browns are healthy for breakfast. You can prepare them in different ways and serve them with almost anything – bacon, eggs, and ice cream.
The nutritional profile of hash browns
If we focus on commercial product and not in homemade hash browns, a few of the most known brand and their nutritional profiles are as follows:
| Nutrition facts | McDonald’s Hash Browns | Waffle House Hashbrown | Chick-Fil-A Hash Browns |
|---|---|---|---|
| Units | 1 serving (56g) | 1 regular | 1 serving (77g) |
| Calories | 150 | 190 | 270 |
| Total Fat | 9g | 7g | 18g |
| Cholesterol | 0mg | 0mg | 0mg |
| Sodium | 320mg | 240mg | 440mg |
| Carbohydrates | 16g | 29g | 23g |
| Protein | 1g | 3g | 3g |
| Vitamin A | 0mcg | 0mcg | 0mcg |
| Sugars | 0g | 0g | 0g |
| Calcium | 0mg | – | 0mg |
| Iron | 0.4mg | – | 0mg |
Magnesium and potassium
These two minerals assist in controlling blood pressure and minimize the risk of stroke and heart disease.
Fiber
Hash browns are rich in fiber which keeps you satiated for longer. Besides, fiber prevents constipation and keeps you full for a long time.
Rich in antioxidants
Hash browns are high in antioxidants to combat free radicals. This lowers the risk of heart disease.
Calcium and phosphorus
These minerals are beneficial for bone health.
1/2 cup serving consists of:
- Saturated fat – 4.3g
- Sodium – 290 mg
- Potassium – 267 mg
- Protein – 1.9 g
- Vitamin B6 – 8%
- Magnesium – 4%
- Thiamin – 5%
Do hash browns aid in weight loss?
This is a common concern for individuals who want to shed extra pounds. People eat hash browns every day and lose weight. However, there are some restrictions to eating hash browns to lose weight.
Potatoes can be a vehicle for bad cholesterol when mashed with a large portion of cream, butter, milk, and cheese.
Hash browns have a high satiety index. They keep you fuller for longer compared to other starchy foods.
So are hash browns bad for cholesterol? Since potatoes can be a vehicle for bad cholesterol, you should be careful with the preparation method.
Are hash browns healthier than fries?
Both are made with the same ingredients (potatoes, oil, and salt). What matters is the method of preparation. Hash browns are healthier if:
- They are made of healthier oils like avocado and olive oil.
- They are cooked without oil or butter
- You don’t add too much salt
- You add vegetables like onions and pepper
Another area you should look at is whether they are processed or not. Those that are processed are high in calories and omega-6 fats. Potatoes are the best wholefoods but can be very satiating. To put it succinctly, the more oil or salt you add, the more they become unhealthy for you. If you eat hash browns with butter and oil, they are no healthier than potato chips. Of course, if you want to shed extra pounds, you can exclude oil and butter.
Hashbrowns preparation methods
To determine whether your hash browns are healthy, you should look at the preparation method. Each method has its pros and cons.
Generally, hash browns consist of diced or shredded onions fried to form a cake.
In an oven
This is the healthiest way to cook hash browns. There are no added fats or oils, so you get more nutrients than other fat sources. First, you should cut the taters into oven pieces and put them into a single layer of a baking sheet. After that, bake at 450 degrees F for about 20 minutes. Keep flipping when they are halfway through the cooking time.
In a slow cooker
If you’re using a slow cooker, simply add some potatoes and onions until they become soft. The only downside with this method is that it takes longer. To ensure your hash browns are delicious, you can add paprika, chili, or dried thyme.
In a pan
This is arguably the easiest way to prepare your hash browns without added fats. Just preheat in an oven-proof skillet and then add butter until they turn golden brown on both sides.
If you want to produce healthy and crispy fries, you should avoid added fats and oils. The key ingredients that you need are potatoes, pepper, salt, garlic powder, and onion powder. When combined in an unusual method, you get crispy potatoes in no time.
Don’t forget to drain the water and stir together with two tbsp. of cornstarch. Add a few cubes and stir evenly.
Is it bad to eat browns every day?
If you plan to eat hash browns every day, you should make them healthy as possible. The secret is to avoid oil and butter when preparing them. Again, if you plan to eat hash browns every day, you should limit the portion sizes. Another thing you should know about hash browns is that they are high in sodium.
It’s not uncommon to eat hash browns every day. Those with a hearty appetite can enjoy the treat in the morning and at lunchtime.
Are Mcdonald’s hash browns bad for you?
McDonald’s hash browns are perfectly crispy and delicious. They are prepared to make them feel toasty and crispy on the inside. If you’ve tried them before, you’ll quickly notice the difference. They are also low in saturated fat. McDonald’s hash browns may contain a small amount of milk.
Are dehydrated hash browns healthy?
Dehydrated hash browns taste good, and their nutritional value is preserved. They are ideal for those looking for long-term food storage.
To rehydrate your hash browns, you should cover them in a bowl and let them sit for 20 minutes. After that, cook in an oiled pan and keep flipping until they turn golden brown. This is a staple meal to rely on every day.
Are hash browns vegetarian?
Most people are afraid of animal fat. The easiest way to prepare vegetarian hash browns is to use vegetable oil rather than bacon fat. Depending on your needs, you can add diced onions and pepper. You may want to avoid dairy products.
Conclusion
Hash browns taste like French fries and can be a healthy breakfast food. If you want them to be part of your morning routine, you should make a few changes. To be on the safe side, you should avoid oil and butter. You can try adding some vegetables like spinach, broccoli, carrots, and kales.
Now you know why hash browns are so great – it’s time you try them out.