Farmhouse Hash from First Watch has always been a favorite morning treat of mine. There’s something special about how the savory spices blend with hearty potatoes and fresh veggies. Every bite feels like a warm, comforting hug to start the day.
I’ve always wanted to recreate that delicious hash at home, and after some experimenting, I finally nailed the perfect copycat recipe. It’s easier than you might think and brings all the flavors of your favorite brunch spot right into your kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just getting started, this recipe will become a staple in your breakfast rotation.
Ingredients
- 2 large russet potatoes, diced into 1/2-inch cubes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 4 large eggs
Tools and Equipment
To craft the perfect Farmhouse Hash, having the right tools makes all the difference. Here’s what I use in my kitchen:
- Large Skillet or Frying Pan
A sturdy skillet ensures even cooking and allows ample space for all the ingredients to mingle beautifully.
- Chef’s Knife
A sharp, reliable knife is essential for chopping potatoes, vegetables, and bacon with precision.
- Cutting Board
A spacious cutting board provides a safe and efficient workspace for all your prep work.
- Spatula
A flexible spatula helps in stirring and flipping the hash without breaking the ingredients apart.
- Measuring Spoons
Accurate measurements of spices are crucial to achieve the perfect balance of flavors.
- Mixing Bowls
Use these for preparing and combining ingredients before they hit the pan.
- Colander
Handy for rinsing and draining potatoes, ensuring they’re free from excess starch.
- Tongs
Useful for handling bacon and other ingredients with ease and safety.
- Paper Towels
Essential for blotting excess grease from bacon, keeping your hash from becoming too oily.
Having these tools at your fingertips will streamline the cooking process and help you create a delicious, restaurant-quality Farmhouse Hash right at home.
Make-Ahead Instructions
Preparing components of the Farmhouse Hash in advance can save you time and make breakfast preparation a breeze. Here’s how I like to get things ready ahead of time:
| Task | Steps | Storage Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Prep the Potatoes | – Wash and peel the russet potatoes – Dice into 1/2-inch cubes – Rinse in cold water – Pat dry with paper towels | Up to 24 hours |
| Cook the Bacon | – Cook bacon in a skillet until crispy – Remove and drain on paper towels – Crumble or chop bacon | Up to 3 days |
| Chop the Vegetables | – Finely chop the onion and red bell pepper – Mince the garlic | Up to 2 days |
| Measure the Spices | – Measure out smoked paprika, ground cumin, black pepper, and salt – Combine in a small bowl | Up to 1 week |
By following these make-ahead steps, assembling your Farmhouse Hash becomes quick and effortless, allowing you to enjoy a delicious, homemade brunch with minimal morning prep.
Directions
Creating the perfect Farmhouse Hash at home is simpler than you might think. Follow these steps to bring the comforting flavors of First Watch right into your kitchen.
Prep the Ingredients
- Prepare the Potatoes
- Wash and peel 2 large russet potatoes.
- Cut them into 1/2-inch cubes.
- Place the cubed potatoes in a colander and rinse under cold water to remove excess starch.
- Pat them dry with paper towels.
- Cook the Bacon
- In a large skillet, cook 4 slices of bacon over medium heat until crispy.
- Remove the bacon from the skillet and drain on paper towels.
- Once cooled, crumble the bacon into small pieces.
- Chop the Vegetables
- Finely dice 1 medium onion.
- Slice 1 red bell pepper into thin strips.
- Mince 2 cloves of garlic.
- Measure the Spices
- In a small bowl, combine 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and 1 teaspoon salt.
- Mix well and set aside.
Cook the Hash
- Sauté the Vegetables
- In the same skillet with the bacon fat, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and red bell pepper.
- Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are soft and translucent.
- Add the Potatoes
- Increase the heat to medium-high.
- Add the cubed potatoes to the skillet.
- Spread them out in an even layer and let them cook without stirring for 5 minutes to develop a golden crust.
- Season and Combine
- Sprinkle the prepared spice mixture over the potatoes and vegetables.
- Add the minced garlic.
- Stir everything together, ensuring the spices evenly coat the ingredients.
- Continue to cook for another 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are crispy and fully cooked.
- Incorporate the Bacon
- Add the crumbled bacon back into the skillet.
- Mix well and let it heat through for 2 minutes.
Assemble and Serve
- Prepare the Eggs
- In a separate non-stick skillet, cook eggs to your preference (fried, sunny-side up, or poached).
- Plate the Hash
- Spoon the hot hash mixture onto serving plates.
- Create a well in the center of the hash and place the cooked egg on top.
- Garnish and Enjoy
- Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the dish for a burst of color and freshness.
- Serve immediately while everything is warm and flavorful.
| Step | Time |
|---|---|
| Prepare the Potatoes | 10 minutes |
| Cook the Bacon | 10 minutes |
| Chop the Vegetables | 5 minutes |
| Measure the Spices | 2 minutes |
| Sauté the Vegetables | 5 minutes |
| Add the Potatoes | 5 minutes |
| Season and Combine | 15 minutes |
| Incorporate the Bacon | 2 minutes |
| Prepare the Eggs | 5 minutes |
| Plate and Garnish | 3 minutes |
Tips and Variations
Here are some of my favorite ways to customize and elevate the Farmhouse Hash to make it your own:
Ingredient Substitutions
- Potatoes: For a healthier twist, use sweet potatoes instead of russets. They add a natural sweetness and vibrant color to the dish.
- Meat Alternatives: Swap bacon with turkey bacon or sausage for a leaner option. For a vegetarian version, omit the meat or use plant-based bacon.
- Vegetables: Feel free to add other veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach to increase the nutritional value and add more flavors.
Enhancing Flavor
- Spice it Up: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce if you prefer a spicy kick. A sprinkle of smoked paprika can also deepen the smoky flavor.
- Fresh Herbs: Besides parsley, try garnishing with cilantro or green onions for a fresh, vibrant finish.
- Cheese: Incorporate shredded cheddar or feta cheese into the hash for a creamy texture and extra richness.
Dietary Modifications
- Gluten-Free: The original recipe is naturally gluten-free. Ensure all added spices and ingredients are also gluten-free.
- Vegan Option: Use plant-based bacon and substitute eggs with tofu scramble or avocado slices for a satisfying vegan hash.
- Low-Carb: Replace potatoes with cauliflower or zucchini to lower the carbohydrate content while maintaining bulk.
Cooking Techniques
- Crispier Hash: For an extra crispy texture, pat the potato cubes dry before cooking and spread them in a single layer in the skillet.
- Batch Cooking: Double the recipe and store leftovers in the fridge. Reheat in a skillet to maintain the crispiness.
- Egg Variations: Top your hash with different egg preparations such as poached, fried, or scrambled to suit your preference.
Presentation Tips
- Plating: Serve the hash in a cast-iron skillet or a rustic dish to enhance the farmhouse aesthetic.
- Garnishes: Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs, a drizzle of hot sauce, or a side of fresh fruit to balance the savory flavors.
Conclusion
Bringing the flavors of First Watch into my kitchen has been a delightful adventure. There’s something special about crafting a dish that holds so many memories and tastes just right. Every morning feels a bit brighter knowing I can enjoy this hearty hash whenever I want. I hope you find as much joy in making and savoring this copycat recipe as I did. Happy cooking and enjoy your delicious homemade Farmhouse Hash!
