Scrub potatoes well. Slice potatoes with curly fry cutter. Rinse potatoes with water. Drain. Add potatoes to heated oil in frying pan. Cook on medium high heat until potatoes start to cook. Cover. Cook on low for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, stirring occasionally. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Add bell pepper and onion, if using, last 5 minutes of cooking. Cook until peppers and onions are tender and potatoes are nicely browned.