Mexican Fried Potatoes

Mexican Fried Potatoes Recipe - Authentic recipe from Mexico

Region / culture: Mexico | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 25 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Mexican Fried Potatoes are a delicious and flavorful dish that can be enjoyed as a side or main dish. The combination of crispy potatoes, onions, and poblano chiles creates a satisfying and hearty meal that is perfect for any occasion.

History

Mexican Fried Potatoes have been a staple in Mexican cuisine for generations. This dish is a popular comfort food that is often enjoyed with eggs for breakfast or as a side dish for lunch or dinner. The simple yet delicious combination of ingredients makes this dish a favorite among many.

Ingredients

0.33 cup of vegetable oil
2 lb (907 g) of potatoes, scrubbed and diced
1 medium onion, diced
1 poblano chile, seeded and sliced thin
2 medium tomatoes, peeled and coarsely chopped, salt to taste

How to prepare

Heat oil in a large heavy skillet. Add potatoes, stir to coat with oil, then press them into a flat layer.
Cook over medium heat until they start to sizzle and turn golden around the edges, approximately 10 minutes.
Stir in the onion and chile, then press them into a flat layer again.
Continue cooking over medium heat until the potatoes are browned on the bottom, about 5 minutes.
Using a spatula, flip the potatoes over to brown the other side.
If using tomatoes, stir them in and press into a layer again. Sprinkle with salt to taste, increase the heat to medium-high, and cook until the potatoes are nicely browned on the bottom again, about 5 minutes.
If using cheese, sprinkle it over the top and cook for an additional 2 minutes, or until the cheese softens. Serve immediately.

Variations

Add cooked chorizo or bacon for a meaty twist.
Top with avocado slices, sour cream, and salsa for a fresh and creamy finish.
Mix in black beans or corn for added texture and flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to dice the potatoes into small, uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.

- Pressing the potatoes into a flat layer helps them cook evenly and develop a crispy exterior.

- Adding poblano chiles adds a mild heat and depth of flavor to the dish.

- Be sure to season with salt to taste throughout the cooking process to enhance the flavors of the dish.

Serving Suggestions

Mexican Fried Potatoes can be enjoyed on their own as a side dish or paired with eggs for a hearty breakfast. They also make a great accompaniment to grilled meats or as a filling for tacos or burritos.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to cook the potatoes on medium heat to ensure they cook through without burning.

- Pressing the potatoes into a flat layer helps them develop a crispy exterior.

- Use a spatula to flip the potatoes to ensure even browning on both sides.

Ingredient Substitutions

Substitute bell peppers for poblano chiles for a milder flavor.

- Use olive oil or avocado oil instead of vegetable oil for a healthier option.

- Swap out regular potatoes for sweet potatoes for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

Mexican Fried Potatoes can be made ahead of time and reheated in the oven or on the stovetop. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Mexican Fried Potatoes in a colorful bowl or plate for a vibrant presentation. Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of cheese for added flavor and visual appeal.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Mexican Fried Potatoes with grilled chicken, steak, or fish for a complete and satisfying meal. Serve with a side salad or roasted vegetables for added nutrition.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover Mexican Fried Potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of Mexican Fried Potatoes contains approximately 250 calories. This makes it a moderate calorie dish that can be enjoyed as part of a balanced meal.

Carbohydrates

Mexican Fried Potatoes are a carb-heavy dish, with approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates per serving. The potatoes are the main source of carbohydrates in this dish, providing energy and fiber.

Fats

The vegetable oil used for frying adds fat to the dish, with approximately 15 grams of fat per serving. While this may seem high, the fats in this dish are mainly from healthy sources and can be part of a balanced diet.

Proteins

Mexican Fried Potatoes are not a significant source of protein, with only about 2 grams per serving. To increase the protein content of this dish, you can add cooked chicken, beef, or beans.

Vitamins and minerals

Potatoes are a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, potassium, and B vitamins. The onions and poblano chiles also provide additional nutrients such as vitamin A and antioxidants.

Alergens

This recipe contains no common allergens, but be sure to check for any specific allergies or dietary restrictions before serving.

Summary

Overall, Mexican Fried Potatoes are a satisfying and flavorful dish that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, and essential nutrients. Enjoy this dish as part of a well-rounded meal for a delicious and satisfying experience.

Summary

Mexican Fried Potatoes are a delicious and satisfying dish that is easy to make and full of flavor. With a few simple ingredients and cooking techniques, you can enjoy this classic Mexican dish at home. Serve it as a side or main dish for a tasty and comforting meal.

How did I get this recipe?

. I remember it like it was yesterday, the day I stumbled upon the recipe for Mexican Fried Potatoes. It was a warm summer afternoon and I was visiting my dear friend Maria, who was known for her delicious Mexican cuisine.

As soon as I walked into her kitchen, I was greeted by the enticing aroma of spices and herbs. Maria was busy at the stove, flipping tortillas and stirring a pot of simmering beans. I couldn't help but admire her skill and passion for cooking.

"Maria, what are you making today?" I asked, taking a seat at the kitchen table.

"Ah, mi amiga, I am trying out a new recipe for Mexican Fried Potatoes. Would you like to help me?" Maria replied with a smile.

I eagerly agreed, excited to learn something new from my friend. As we worked together, Maria shared the story of how she learned to make this dish from her own grandmother, who passed down the recipe through generations.

"The key to making the perfect Mexican Fried Potatoes is to first parboil the potatoes until they are just tender, then fry them with onions, peppers, and a blend of spices," Maria explained as she guided me through each step.

I watched in awe as Maria effortlessly chopped, sautéed, and seasoned the ingredients, creating a mouthwatering dish that filled the kitchen with a tantalizing aroma. The sizzle of the potatoes as they cooked in the hot skillet was music to my ears.

After a few minutes, Maria plated the Mexican Fried Potatoes and garnished them with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime. I couldn't wait to taste the final result.

As I took my first bite, I was transported to a world of flavor and tradition. The crispy potatoes were perfectly seasoned, with a hint of smokiness from the spices and a touch of brightness from the lime. It was a harmonious blend of textures and tastes that left me craving more.

"Maria, this is incredible! I must have the recipe for these Mexican Fried Potatoes," I exclaimed, feeling inspired by the delicious dish in front of me.

Maria smiled and handed me a worn piece of paper, on which she had written down the ingredients and instructions for making the dish. It was a precious gift that I would cherish forever.

From that day on, Mexican Fried Potatoes became a staple in my own kitchen. I would make them for family gatherings, potlucks, and special occasions, always receiving compliments and requests for the recipe.

Over the years, I continued to refine and perfect the dish, adding my own twist with different seasonings and toppings. Each time I made Mexican Fried Potatoes, I felt a connection to Maria and her grandmother, honoring their legacy through the art of cooking.

Now, as I sit in my own kitchen, preparing a batch of Mexican Fried Potatoes for my loved ones, I can't help but feel grateful for the memories and traditions that have shaped my culinary journey. The aroma of spices and herbs fills the air, bringing back the excitement and joy of that fateful day when I first learned to make this beloved recipe.

As I take a bite of the crispy, flavorful potatoes, I am reminded of the power of food to bring people together, to create lasting memories, and to celebrate the richness of our shared heritage. And I know that as long as I continue to cook with love and passion, the tradition of Mexican Fried Potatoes will live on for generations to come.