Our best omelets hash browns

FOOD AND HOSPITALITY

When you've got a hankering for a hearty breakfast, order up these delicious eggs and golden, crisp potatoes.

After taking an informal survey at our morning coffeepot, I learned that folks are very particular about what they like in their omelets. Favorites range from just ham and American cheese to everything-but-the-kitchen-sink combinations-with plenty of preferences in between. Hash browns, however, are a different story. Most people polled prefer the shredded, crisp-on-the-- outside, tender-on-the-inside type with lots of salt and pepper.

Here, Lyda Jones, our Test Kitchens Director and breakfast connoisseur (she's the former breakfast cook at Charleston's Hominy Grill), shares her expertise on making perfect omelets and hash browns. Lyda knows some people are nervous about flipping omelets (restaurants do it to speed cooking). She says you can cook without flipping and still get good results-see the box on page 180 for instructions. Whichever way you choose, we think you're going to flip over this selection worthy of any special brunch or supper.

SPANISH OMELET WITH FRESH AvocADO SALSA

MAKES 2 OMELETS

Fresh Avocado Salsa:

MAKES ABOUT 2 CUPS

HAM-AND-CHEESE OMELET

MAKES 2 OMELETS

PREP: 5 MIN., COOK: 10 MIN. PER OMELET

OPEN-FACED BACON-AND-- POTATO OMELET

MAKES 4 TO 6 SERVINGS

CREAMY VEGGIE OMELET

MAKES 2 OMELETS

SMOTHERED-COVERED HASH BROWNS

MAKES 8 SERVINGS

PREP: 10 MIN., COOK: 25 MIN.

SWEET POTATO HASH BROWNS

MAKES 8 SERVINGS

EGGSTRA KNOW-HOW

* Eggs are economical, convenient, easy to prepare, and nutritious. One egg supplies 10% of our daily protein requirement. They're also a terrific source of vitamins A, D, and B12.

* Egg substitute, such as Egg Beaters, may be used successfully in the place of whole eggs (1/4 cup egg substitute equals one egg).

* Leftovers of vegetables, beef, chicken, or pork make great fillings for omelets. Chop ingredients into bite-size pieces. Heat in the microwave; sprinkle over egg mixture.

* We used frozen shredded hash browns to shorten prep time for these recipes. Substitute two very large baking potatoes for one (16-ounce) package shredded hash browns, if desired.

Copyright Southern Progress Corporation Nov 2002
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