Hair-thin potato shreds are flash-fried with vinegar for a tangy, crunchy vegetarian side. This healthy, low calorie family dish is one of China's most popular home-cooked vegetables.
Peel the potatoes and slice them into hair-thin shreds; soak immediately in cold water to remove starch and keep them crisp.
Drain the potato shreds and pat dry thoroughly with a kitchen towel to ensure minimal surface moisture before stir-frying.
Heat a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat and add the neutral oil. When hot, fry the sliced garlic and dried red chili for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Increase the heat to high. Add the potato shreds and stir-fry briskly for about 2 minutes until the edges just begin to turn translucent but remain very crisp.
Add salt, sugar, and green bell pepper, then pour in the rice vinegar. Toss everything quickly for another 1–2 minutes, allowing the vinegar to evaporate and lightly coat the potatoes.
Serve immediately while hot and crisp for best texture.