Speck Ham Tater Tots

• 2 large Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes (about 2 pounds), scrubbed and cleaned of all dirt
• 1/4 cup Speck ham, diced
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese
• 1 1/4 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
• oil for frying

1. Precook the potatoes by pricking each potato several times all over and microwave on high for 4-5 minutes, or until a knife is easily inserted into center but not quite soft (can also precook/roast in a 400F degree oven for about 30-40 minutes). Set aside and let cool completely.
2. Take cooled potatoes and peel the skins off (if desired) and shred on the large holes of a box grater. Place shredded potatoes in a large bowl, add Speck ham, flour, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well with hands until mixture is thoroughly combined. Set aside.
3. Place 2 inches oil in a heavy bottomed, large pot over medium-high heat until oil reaches 350F degrees. While oil is heating, make the tots by taking a small scoop of the potato mixture and form into 1 inch long cylinders. Drop each tot into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd, and fry until golden brown on all sides, about 5 minutes. Drain on a wire rack over paper towels or a paper towel lined plate. Serve immediately.

potatoes, speck ham, flour, parmesan cheese, italian seasoning, garlic, salt, fresh ground black pepper, oil

Taken from food52.com/recipes/53064-speck-ham-tater-tots (may not work)