Description
Homemade Potato Smileys in Minutes are crispy, fun, and comforting snack treats shaped like smiley faces. Easy and quick to make with simple ingredients, they offer a golden crunch and fluffy inside perfect for lunchboxes, parties, or quick bites. Customizable and healthy, these smileys are ideal as a side, appetizer, or finger food for all ages.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 4 medium starchy potatoes (Russets preferred), peeled and boiled
- 2 tbsp cornflour or cornstarch
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp chili powder or paprika
- Oil for frying or brushing (approximately 1/4 cup)
Optional Variations & Add-ins
- 1/2 cup grated cheese (for Cheese Potato Smileys)
- 1 tsp fresh or dried herbs (rosemary, thyme, parsley)
- 1 finely chopped green chili or 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (for spicy version)
- Alternative flours: 2 tbsp chickpea flour or rice flour (for gluten-free binding)
Instructions
- Prepare the Potatoes: Start by boiling peeled potatoes in salted water until tender and easily pierced with a fork. Drain well and mash immediately while still hot to create a smooth, lump-free base.
- Mix the Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine the hot mashed potatoes with cornflour, salt, chili powder or paprika, and any optional herbs or spices. Knead the mixture using your hands or a spatula until you get a soft, pliable dough that is moist enough to shape but not sticky.
- Shape the Smileys: Roll out the dough on a clean, lightly floured surface to about half an inch thickness. Using a small round cutter or glass, cut out circles. Then, carefully carve out eyes and a smile on each circle with a toothpick or knife to create the signature smiley faces.
- Cook the Smileys: For frying, heat oil in a deep pan over medium heat (approx. 350°F/175°C). Fry the smileys in small batches for 2-3 minutes per side or until golden brown and crisp. For baking, preheat oven to 400°F (200°C), brush smileys lightly with oil, and bake on a lined tray for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden and crisp.
- Drain and Serve: Place fried smileys on paper towels to absorb excess oil. Serve warm with your favorite dips or garnishes such as freshly chopped herbs, ketchup, or sauces for a delightful and cheerful snack.
Notes
- Use starchy potatoes like Russets for the fluffiest mash ideal for shaping.
- Thoroughly drain and dry boiled potatoes to avoid soggy dough and ensure crispiness.
- Maintain oil temperature around 350°F (175°C) for even frying without burning.
- Carve smiley faces gently to preserve details during cooking.
- Fry smileys in small batches to keep oil temperature steady and texture crispy.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 5 smileys
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 250 mg
- Fat: 7 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
Keywords: Potato Smileys, Crispy Potato Snack, Vegan Snack, Gluten Free Potato Treats, Party Finger Food, Kids Snack
