Mexican Potatoes: A Simple Recipe for a Flavorful Side Dish
Mexican potatoes are a delicious and versatile side dish that can be easily customized to your liking. This recipe provides a simple base that you can build upon, adding your own favorite spices and ingredients. Perfect for taco night, alongside fajitas, or as a standalone snack, these potatoes are sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 2 pounds small red potatoes, scrubbed and quartered (Yukon Gold or other waxy potatoes also work well)
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil (or olive oil, for a richer flavor)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional additions: 1/4 cup chopped cilantro, 1/4 cup crumbled cotija cheese, 1 jalapeño pepper, finely minced (for extra heat)
Instructions: A Step-by-Step Guide
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Prep the Potatoes: Wash and scrub your potatoes thoroughly. Cut them into quarters, ensuring they are relatively uniform in size for even cooking. Smaller potatoes may only require halving.
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Season the Potatoes: In a large bowl, toss the quartered potatoes with vegetable oil, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Make sure all the potatoes are evenly coated with the seasoning. If adding jalapeño, incorporate it now.
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Roast to Perfection: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the seasoned potatoes in a single layer on a large baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding the pan; if necessary, use two baking sheets.
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Bake Until Tender: Roast the potatoes for 25-30 minutes, or until they are tender and slightly crispy. Flip the potatoes halfway through for even browning. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning.
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Garnish and Serve: Once cooked, remove the potatoes from the oven and let them cool slightly. Garnish with fresh cilantro and cotija cheese (if using). Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips and Variations for Delicious Mexican Potatoes:
- Spice it Up: Adjust the amount of chili powder to your preferred level of spiciness. Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
- Add Some Zing: Incorporate other spices like oregano, or a touch of chipotle powder for a smoky flavor.
- Citrus Burst: A squeeze of fresh lime juice just before serving adds a bright, refreshing touch.
- Make it a Meal: Add cooked chorizo or bacon for a heartier side dish.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs like parsley or chives for a different flavor profile.
Keywords: Mexican Potatoes, Roasted Potatoes, Spicy Potatoes, Side Dish Recipe, Easy Recipe, Taco Night, Fajitas, Mexican Food, Potato Recipe, Oven Baked Potatoes
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