Scattered, smothered and covered hash browns are a delicious and famous breakfast dish found in popular diners across America. This dish is a type of hash brown that is cooked with onions and cheese, and sometimes other toppings. The name, scattered, smothered and covered, comes from the way the dish is prepared; the hash browns are first scattered across the grill or skillet, then smothered with onions, and finally covered with cheese.
Scattered, smothered and covered hash browns are often considered a staple for those seeking a hearty breakfast that is both savory and filling. The dish is so popular that it has even become a cultural phenomenon with some diners in America offering it as a national treasure. In this article, we will take a closer look at this famous breakfast dish, exploring its origins, preparation, and variations.
The Origin and History of Scattered Smothered and Covered Hash Browns
The origin and history of Scattered Smothered and Covered Hash Browns dates back to the early 1930s. It was invented by Waffle House, a famous American restaurant chain, as a part of their breakfast menu. The menu item soon became popular among customers and has now become a staple breakfast dish in the US.
The term ‘scattered’ refers to the hash browns being spread out on the griddle to achieve a crisp and golden-brown exterior, while ‘smothered’ means covering them in sautéed onions, and ‘covered’ means topped with melted cheese. The combination of these three toppings creates a deliciously savory flavor and texture that can satisfy any craving. Today, many restaurants and diners across the US serve Scattered Smothered and Covered Hash Browns, and it has even become a national favorite among breakfast lovers.
The Technique and Ingredients Used to Make Scattered Smothered and Covered Hash Browns
The making of scattered smothered and covered hash browns involves a specific technique and set of ingredients. To start, shredded potatoes are pressed into a flat layer on a griddle or skillet and left to cook until crispy and golden brown. Once one side is cooked, the potatoes are flipped and cooked on the other side.
The toppings for scattered smothered and covered hash browns consist of onions (scattered), cheese (smothered), and diced ham (covered). The onions are chopped and scattered over the cooked potatoes, followed by a layer of shredded cheese that is melted and spread over the onions. Finally, diced ham is added to the mix and allowed to cook until heated through. This combination of savory ingredients, when added to perfectly cooked hash browns, creates a delicious breakfast dish that is hearty, flavorful and highly satisfying.
What Makes Scattered Smothered and Covered Hash Browns So Popular Among Diners?
Scattered Smothered and Covered Hash Browns are a beloved dish for many diners, and their popularity can be traced back to several factors. First and foremost, these hash browns are incredibly delicious, with crispy potatoes topped with cheese, onions, and other savory ingredients. They are the perfect comfort food that can be enjoyed any time of the day.
Another reason for their popularity is their versatility. Scattered, Smothered, and Covered Hash Browns can be customized to meet individual tastes. For instance, some diners may prefer a side of bacon or sausage, while others may add jalapenos or other veggies. Additionally, this dish is not just limited to breakfast; it can also be served as a side dish or as part of a main course. Overall, the widespread love for Scattered, Smothered, and Covered Hash Browns can be attributed to their outstanding taste, flexibility, and ability to satisfy cravings any time of the day.
How Scattered Smothered and Covered Hash Browns are Served at Waffle House
At Waffle House, Scattered, Smothered and Covered hash browns are served in a unique manner. As soon as the order is placed, the cook takes a heaping pile of shredded potatoes and scatters them on the griddle. The potatoes are then cooked until they are crispy and golden brown.
Once the potatoes are cooked, toppings are added. “Smothered” means the hash browns are covered in sautéed onions. “Covered” means the hash browns are smothered in melted cheese, and smothered and covered go perfectly together. Once the toppings are added, the hash browns are served on a plate, hot and fresh from the griddle. This is a delectable dish that can be enjoyed any time of day at Waffle House.
The Nutritional Value of Scattered Smothered and Covered Hash Browns
Scattered smothered and covered hash browns are a beloved breakfast dish that has gained popularity over the years. As the name indicates, the dish comprises hash browns that are scattered (spread out), smothered (covered with onions), and covered (covered with melted cheese).
Although this dish is high on taste and visual appeal, its nutritional value may concern some health-conscious individuals. The nutritional value of scattered smothered and covered hash browns depends on the cooking method and the amount of added ingredients. Typically, this dish contains approximately 350-400 calories, 20-25g fat, 30-35g carbohydrates, and 8-10g protein. Therefore, it is advised to consume this dish in moderation, especially if one is trying to maintain a balanced diet.
Alternatives to Scattered Smothered and Covered Hash Browns for Health-Conscious Diners
For health-conscious diners who want to avoid the classic scattered, smothered, and covered hash browns, there are plenty of alternatives that still offer great flavor and texture. One great option is to simply replace traditional potato hash browns with sweet potato hash browns. Sweet potatoes are naturally sweet and are packed with antioxidants, vitamins and minerals. They also have a lower glycemic index than regular potatoes, making them a healthier choice.
Another alternative is to swap potatoes for cauliflower. Cauliflower hash browns are delicious and offer the same texture and crunch as traditional hash browns, but without the carbs and calories. Additionally, you can experiment with toppings like mushrooms, spinach, tomatoes, onions, and green pepper, which provide added nutrition and flavor without the added calories. Opting for these healthier alternatives is an excellent way to enjoy a classic breakfast dish while still making choices that support your overall health and wellness.
Recommendations for Pairing Scattered Smothered and Covered Hash Browns with Other Breakfast Items.
When it comes to pairing scattered, smothered, and covered hash browns with other breakfast items, there are plenty of options to choose from. One of the most popular options is to pair them with eggs. Scrambled eggs or over-easy eggs go particularly well with hash browns because the creamy yolk of the eggs mixes with the crispy, flavorful hash browns, creating a delicious combination of textures.
Another great option is to pair them with bacon or sausage. The saltiness of the meat complements the savory flavors of the hash browns, making for a satisfying breakfast meal. For those who prefer a lighter breakfast, hash browns can also be paired with fresh fruit or yogurt. The sweet flavors of the fruit balance out the salty flavors of the hash browns, creating a well-rounded breakfast meal. Whatever your preferences may be, scattered, smothered, and covered hash browns are a versatile dish that can be paired with a wide variety of breakfast items to create a delicious breakfast experience.
The Bottom Line
Scattered, smothered, and covered hash browns are an American breakfast staple that has become a popular side dish across the nation. The dish is crispy and flavorful, perfect for those who crave a savory and satisfying breakfast.
Hash browns have come a long way from their humble beginnings as a simple breakfast dish. Now, they’re a beloved staple for many people, and scattered, smothered, and covered hash browns are a must-try for anyone who loves breakfast food. Whether you’re looking for a hearty meal to start your day or a quick and delicious snack, give scattered, smothered, and covered hash browns a try, and you won’t be disappointed.