Mike Haracz, a TikTok star and former McDonald's chef, recently searched for a grocery store product similar to McDonald's Hash Browns.
In his famous video, seen by over 525,000 people, Haracz points out that shoppers cannot buy the same hash browns as McDonald's because of their unique recipe. However, he mentions that supermarkets and big brands have made similar versions, almost like McDonald's Hash Browns.
Aldi's Frozen Hash Browns: The Closest Match to McDonald's
Haracz looked at the ingredients and nutrition facts of McDonald's Hash Browns and different ones from grocery stores to find the closest match. He found that Aldi's Frozen Season's Choice Hash Brown Patties were the most similar. Haracz suggests deep frying them for the best taste.
Haracz mentioned that Aldi's hash browns might taste slightly different from McDonald's. It is because McDonald's uses oil with beef flavor to fry their hash browns; not everyone can get this flavoring. However, he emphasized that Aldi's hash browns taste similar to McDonald's classic ones.
Aldi's imitation of a fast-food breakfast has garnered attention for its quality. The store offers an array of breakfast essentials, including various bacon types, suitable bread for toast, and, notably, excellent sausage.
Regarding hash browns, Aldi provides two Regular Buy choices. Their shredded hash browns can be skillet-cooked for a Bob Evans-style appearance. Another option is the Season's Choice Hash Brown Patties from Aldi's frozen section.
While both hash brown types make for a satisfying breakfast, the patties are favored for their simpler cooking process and more defined portions, making meal preparation easier.
Also Read: Krispy Kreme Doughnuts in France: Blending American Tradition with French Flair
TikTok Chef's Revelation: McDonald's Hash Browns are not Salted like Fries
Meanwhile, In a recent video, Haracz discussed why McDonald's hash browns are not salted like their fries. He explained that foods made from chopped, ground, or grated potatoes, like hash browns, can have salt mixed into the batter, similar to tater tots and Pringles.
In contrast, French fries are typically salted after cooking, which is simpler and uses less water in the preparation process. Haracz noted that hash browns would likely break if salted post-cooking, as they are more delicate and already contain salt in their recipe.
A TikTok user and a YouTuber echoed this, showing a method for salting homemade McDonald 's-style hash browns.
Haracz, who frequently shares McDonald 's-related content on TikTok, addressed a viewer's question about whether McDonald's corporate has contacted him regarding his videos.
Moreover, He confirmed that he has had no communication from McDonald's about his TikToks. He also mentioned that after reaching out to the corporate side of the chain, he verified there are no binding contracts with McDonald's.
Haracz does have non-disclosure agreements concerning specific recipes but assures that he only disseminates information that is already public and reported in the media.
The former chef has a history of guiding McDonald's enthusiasts to similar products in grocery stores.
Recently, he identified Walmart's Great Value Fully Cooked Original Pork Sausage Patties as the nearest match to McDonald's breakfast sausage based on ingredient and nutritional comparisons.
Earlier in October, he pinpointed Walmart's Great Value Secret Sauce as the closest alternative to McDonald's iconic Big Mac sauce.
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