Apopular “frozen food” among children is “tater tots.” Up there with hot dogs and macaroni and cheese, it’s one of those foods that parents can add to dinner without any fuss (from MOST kids). And with store brand versions (Potato Gems, Tater Nuggets, etc.), they’re cheaper than they used to be and so become a good choice for a side dish at dinner.

The only thing is… they can get boring. They’re just potatoes that are shredded, put back together and baked or fried. Now, a BIG exception to that is my one of my favorite fast foods. From Taco John’s. They’re called Potato Ole’s and they’re like tater tots but more flat like discs instead of cylindrical. (Although, YES, technically they’re still cylindrical.) Anyway, what’s great about them is that they’re seasoned with a not that spicy, sort of sweet concoction that makes them irresistible! At least to me.

So when we’ve had tater tots (in whatever form) at home, I’ve tried adding a little seasoning to them. And you know what? They’re not as boring any more! You can add all kinds of spices or seasoning mixes to them, along with some salt, and you’ve got all kinds of variety! My favorite is a light dose of cumin. When you add cumin and salt to tater tots, they’re almost (but not quite) like the Potato Ole’s from Taco John’s. But you can add Lawry’s salt, paprika, pepper, onion powder, even oregano (ground). With oregano, they’re almost pizza-ish when dipped in ketchup. :-P
Pretty much any ground or powdered spice or herb can work. If it’s good with potatoes, it’s even better with tater tots!

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