Hash browns are shredded up pieces of potato that are often used as part of a hearty breakfast. They can be completely shredded up or the shreds can be formed into a solid patty There are a few different ways to cook hash browns. The first way would be to brown them on a skillet on top of the stove with a bit of oil.
Another way would be deep frying and yet another way is baking them inside the oven. Any way you go they are going to need some kind of oil to be sure that they don't stick in whatever you are preparing them in.