Potato Green Chile Tacos
These Potato Green Chile Tacos are a delicious fusion of flavors and textures, perfect for any meal of the day. The tender, seasoned potatoes combined with smoky roasted poblano peppers create a hearty filling that’s both satisfying and flavorful.
Topped with crumbled queso fresco and optional fresh epazote, these tacos offer a delightful twist on a classic dish. Whether you’re serving them for a casual weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, they’re sure to please everyone at the table!
Potato Green Chile Tacos
Ingredients:
1.5 lbs small boiling potatoes, halved
3 tablespoons olive oil, plus extra for frying the tortillas
1 small white onion, finely sliced
6 medium poblano peppers, charred and peeled
A pinch of salt
8 oz crumbled Mexican queso fresco (or substitutes like goat cheese or feta)
16 leaves of epazote, finely chopped (optional)
8-12 corn tortillas, lightly crisped in olive oil
Instructions:
Boil the Potatoes:
Place the halved potatoes in a pot of salted water, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cook until tender, about 15 minutes.
Cool and Dice:
Once boiled, cool the potatoes under running tap water. After cooling, peel and cut them into small cubes.
Sauté the Mixture:
Heat olive oil in a heavy skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and diced potatoes, stirring occasionally. Cook until they turn a deep golden brown, approximately 10 to 15 minutes.
Prepare the Poblano Peppers:
While the potato mixture cooks, remove the seeds from the charred poblano peppers and chop them roughly.
Combine Ingredients:
Add the chopped poblanos to the skillet with the potato mixture. If using, stir in the chopped epazote and season with salt.
Finish the Filling:
Turn off the heat and mix in the crumbled cheese until well combined.
Fry the Tortillas:
In a separate pan, heat olive oil over medium heat and fry the corn tortillas until they are lightly crispy.
Assemble the Tacos:
Fill the tortillas with the potato and poblano mixture, fold them, and serve with your favorite sauce.
Notes:
Potato Variety: Use small, waxy potatoes for the best texture. Yukon Gold or red potatoes work well since they hold their shape after cooking.
Charred Poblanos: To char poblanos, place them directly over a flame (on a gas stovetop or grill) or under a broiler until the skin is blistered and blackened. Then, place them in a covered bowl or bag for a few minutes to steam, which makes peeling easier.
Cooking the Potatoes: Make sure not to overboil the potatoes; they should be tender but still hold their shape for a better texture in the tacos.
Epazote: If you can’t find epazote, you can omit it or substitute with a small amount of cilantro or parsley for a fresh flavor.
Cheese Options: If queso fresco isn’t available, goat cheese or feta work well, but you can also use a blend of cheeses for added richness.
Tortilla Options: For a gluten-free version, ensure you use certified gluten-free corn tortillas. You can also lightly toast them in the oven if you prefer a less oily option.
Serving Suggestions: Serve the tacos with your favorite salsa, avocado slices, or a squeeze of lime to enhance the flavors.
Nutrition Information:
Calories: 180 | Total Fat: 7g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 5mg | Sodium: 200mg | Total Carbohydrates: 25g | Dietary Fiber: 3g | Sugars: 1g | Protein: 5g
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I make the filling ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the potato and poblano filling in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Just reheat it before stuffing the tacos.
What can I use instead of poblano peppers?
If you can’t find poblanos, you can substitute with roasted bell peppers for a milder flavor, or jalapeños for added heat.
Adjust the amount based on your spice preference.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While queso fresco is traditional, you can use shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a combination of your favorite cheeses.
How do I keep the tortillas from getting soggy?
To prevent soggy tortillas, fry them just before serving, and use a slotted spoon to drain excess oil.
Also, avoid overfilling them.
Can I make these tacos gluten-free?
Yes! Use corn tortillas that are labeled gluten-free.
Most corn tortillas are naturally gluten-free, but it’s always good to check the packaging.
What’s the best way to char poblano peppers?
You can char poblano peppers by placing them directly over a gas flame, under a broiler, or on a hot grill until the skin is blistered and blackened.
After charring, place them in a covered bowl or bag for a few minutes to steam, making them easier to peel.
How can I tell when the potatoes are cooked properly?
The potatoes should be tender when pierced with a fork but still hold their shape.
Boil them for about 15 minutes, but check for doneness a couple of minutes early to avoid overcooking.
Can I use other herbs instead of epazote?
Yes! If you can’t find epazote, you can substitute it with fresh cilantro or parsley for a different flavor profile.
Just use a small amount to avoid overpowering the dish.
How do I keep the tortillas warm while cooking the filling?
To keep tortillas warm, wrap them in a clean kitchen towel or place them in a tortilla warmer while you prepare the filling.
This will help maintain their softness and warmth.
Is it necessary to peel the potatoes?
Peeling the potatoes is optional.
If you prefer a more rustic texture, you can leave the skins on.
Just make sure to wash them thoroughly before cooking.