If you’re looking for a delightful and satisfying meal, this potato taco recipe is perfect for you. Ideal for vegetarians or anyone who loves a good crispy taco with a flavorful filling, these potato tacos are sure to become a favorite in your household. Why settle for the usual when you can enjoy a crispy, spicy, and savory treat? Let’s dive into the details and make your next meal unforgettable.
Trivia Question: What are the main ingredients in a traditional Mexican potato taco? Answer: Traditional Mexican potato tacos, known as “tacos de papa,” typically include mashed potatoes, cheese, and a variety of spices wrapped in a tortilla and fried to perfection.
Recipe Details
| Yields | Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Calories per Serving |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 servings | 15 minutes | 20 minutes | 35 minutes | 250 kcal |
Ingredients
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional for vegan)
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 small corn tortillas
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- Optional toppings: shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, avocado slices, sour cream (or vegan alternative), hot sauce
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes: Boil the diced potatoes in a large pot of salted water until tender, about 10-12 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Potato Filling: In a large bowl, mash the boiled potatoes with a fork or potato masher. Add the diced onions, shredded cheese (if using), chopped cilantro, chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
Step 3: Assemble the Tacos: Heat the corn tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat until pliable, about 1 minute per side. Place a generous spoonful of the potato filling in the center of each tortilla and fold in half.
Step 4: Cook the Tacos: In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Fry the folded tortillas in batches, about 2 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy: Serve the crispy potato tacos with your choice of toppings such as shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, avocado slices, sour cream, and hot sauce. Enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 35g |
| Protein | 5g |
| Fat | 10g |
| Fiber | 4g |
| Sugar | 2g |
For a visual guide, watch this helpful video on making crispy potato tacos:
Tips and Variations
- Make Ahead: The potato filling can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just reheat before assembling the tacos.
- Shortcut: Use pre-cooked, frozen diced potatoes to save time on boiling and dicing.
- Seasoning Swap: Experiment with different spices such as taco seasoning or your favorite herbs.
Variations:
- Vegan Option: Omit the cheese or use a vegan cheese alternative for a vegan-friendly version.
- Spicy Version: Add finely chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the potato filling for an extra kick.
- Different Tortillas: Swap out corn tortillas for flour tortillas or even lettuce wraps for a low-carb option.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large pot
- Large skillet
- Mixing bowl
- Potato masher or fork
- Spatula
- Paper towels
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover potato filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the filling for up to 1 month. To reheat, simply warm in a skillet or microwave until heated through. As for the assembled tacos, they are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in an oven or toaster oven to retain their crispiness.
Food and Drink Pairings
Pairings:
- Drinks: Serve with a refreshing agua fresca, a cold beer, or a margarita.
- Side Dishes: Pair your potato tacos with a side of Mexican rice, black beans, or a fresh corn salad.
- Dessert: For a sweet finish, consider churros or flan.
These crispy and flavorful potato tacos are sure to be a hit at any meal. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this potato taco recipe is a versatile and delicious option. Don’t forget to share this recipe with others and subscribe to our blog for more tasty recipes and cooking tips!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is Taco Bell potato taco?
A: Taco Bell’s potato taco, also known as the Spicy Potato Soft Taco, features crispy potato bites, shredded lettuce, and cheddar cheese, all topped with a creamy chipotle sauce and wrapped in a soft flour tortilla.
Q: What is the history of potato tacos?
A: Potato tacos, or “tacos de papa,” originated in Mexico as a humble street food. They became popular due to their affordability and the ability to stretch ingredients to feed many people. Traditionally, they consist of mashed or diced potatoes seasoned with various spices, wrapped in a tortilla, and fried until crispy.
Q: What are tacos de papa made of?
A: Tacos de papa are typically made with mashed potatoes mixed with spices such as chili powder, cumin, and garlic. They often include cheese and are wrapped in corn tortillas, then fried until golden and crispy.
Q: What makes a taco a taco?
A: A taco is a traditional Mexican dish consisting of a tortilla folded or rolled around a filling. The tortilla can be made of corn or flour, and the filling can vary widely, including meats, seafood, vegetables, and beans. Tacos are often garnished with various toppings such as salsa, guacamole, sour cream, and cheese.
Q: Can I make this recipe vegan?
A: Absolutely! To make this recipe vegan, simply omit the cheese or use a vegan cheese alternative. Ensure that any toppings and sauces you use are also vegan-friendly.
