Papas Con Chorizo

“Papas Con Chorizo is a classic Mexican dish that brings together the hearty flavors of potatoes and spicy chorizo sausage. In this recipe, tender cubes of red potatoes are simmered until just cooked, then sautéed with crumbled Mexican chorizo to create a rich and flavorful dish.

Enhanced with optional diced onions for added depth, this dish is perfect served with warm tortillas and a side of spicy salsa or fresh Serrano peppers. Papas Con Chorizo is not only comforting but also quick and easy to prepare, making it a favorite for both weeknight dinners and weekend brunches.”

Papas Con Chorizo

Ingredients:

1.5 Pound potatoes about 3 red potatoes, peeled and cut into ½ –in cubes

2 Tablespoons vegetable oil or more as needed

10 oz Mexican chorizo remove the casings

⅓ Cup white onion finely diced (optional)

Salt

To Serve:

Warm corn or flour tortillas to serve.

A spicy salsa or fresh Serrano pepper finely chopped.

Instructions:

Place potatoes in a saucepan and cover with water.

Once the water comes to boil, cook the potatoes at medium heat for about 8 -10 minutes.

The potatoes do not need to be thoroughly cooked, just tender.

They will finish cooking in the frying pan with the chorizo later on.

Drain the potatoes using a strainer and reserve.

While the potatoes are cooking, heat the oil in a frying pan at medium heat.

Remove the casing from the chorizo, crumble it and add to the frying pan to cook.

Stir often to make sure it doesn’t stick to the pan, and it releases the tasty fat.

This step will take about 8 minutes.

Stir in potatoes and the onion (if using) and combine to allow all the chorizo flavors to coat the potatoes.

Add more oil if need, to finish to cook the potatoes and to avoid them from sticking to the pan.

Season your Chorizo con papas with salt.

Notes:

Ingredient Preparation: Use about 3 medium-sized red potatoes, peeled and cubed into half-inch pieces. Mexican chorizo, which is typically sold in casings, should have the casings removed before cooking. Optional finely diced white onion adds extra flavor.

Cooking the Potatoes: Boil the cubed potatoes until they are tender but not overly soft, as they will finish cooking in the frying pan with the chorizo. This step ensures the potatoes retain their shape and texture when mixed with the chorizo.

Cooking the Chorizo: In a separate frying pan, heat vegetable oil and cook crumbled chorizo until it releases its flavorful fat and browns slightly. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking, which takes about 8 minutes.

Combining and Seasoning: Once the chorizo is cooked, add the partially cooked potatoes and diced onion (if using) to the pan. Mix well to coat the potatoes with the chorizo and oil mixture. Adjust seasoning with salt to taste and continue cooking until the potatoes are fully tender and infused with the chorizo flavor.

Serving Suggestions: Serve Papas Con Chorizo hot with warm corn or flour tortillas for a traditional meal. Enhance the dish with a spicy salsa or freshly chopped Serrano peppers for added heat and freshness.

Versatility: This dish is versatile and can be enjoyed as a hearty breakfast, brunch, or even a comforting dinner. It pairs well with a variety of side dishes and toppings according to personal preference.

Adjustments: Depending on your taste preferences, you can adjust the amount of vegetable oil used for cooking and the level of spiciness by choosing mild or hot chorizo and adjusting the amount of salsa or peppers added.

Nutrition Information:

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use a different type of chorizo?

Yes, if Mexican chorizo is not available, you can use a different type of chorizo, such as Spanish chorizo or Portuguese chorizo.

The flavor and spiciness may vary, so adjust according to your preference.

Can I substitute the vegetable oil?

Yes, you can substitute the vegetable oil with other cooking oils, such as olive oil, canola oil, or sunflower oil.

Choose an oil with a mild flavor that can withstand medium heat cooking.

Is the white onion necessary?

The white onion is optional and can be omitted if desired. It adds flavor and texture to the dish, but if you’re not a fan of onions or don’t have any on hand, you can leave it out without significantly affecting the overall result.

Can I use different types of potatoes?

Yes, you can use different types of potatoes in this recipe. While the recipe suggests using red potatoes, you can also use Yukon gold, russet, or any other variety that you prefer. Just ensure that the potatoes are cut into similar-sized cubes for even cooking.

How spicy is Mexican chorizo?

Mexican chorizo can vary in spiciness, depending on the brand and individual preference. It is typically known for its spicy and flavorful profile due to the addition of chili peppers and spices.

If you prefer a milder heat, you can look for a mild or less spicy variety, or adjust the amount used in the recipe according to your taste.

What can I serve with Papas Con Chorizo?

Papas Con Chorizo is often served with warm corn or flour tortillas to make tacos or as a filling for burritos.

You can also serve it with a side of spicy salsa or finely chopped fresh Serrano peppers for extra heat and flavor. Guacamole, sour cream, or a side salad can complement the dish as well.

Can I make this dish vegetarian or vegan?

Yes, you can make a vegetarian version of Papas Con Chorizo by using vegetarian chorizo or substituting the chorizo with plant-based alternatives, such as tofu or tempeh.

For a vegan version, ensure that the ingredients, including the tortillas and toppings, are free of animal products.

Can I prepare the potatoes ahead of time?

Yes, you can boil and partially cook the potatoes ahead of time. Once cooked and drained, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

When you’re ready to make the dish, continue with the recipe from the step of adding the partially cooked potatoes to the frying pan.

Can I add other vegetables to the dish?

Yes, you can customize Papas Con Chorizo by adding other vegetables to the recipe. Bell peppers, diced tomatoes, or corn kernels can be great additions.

Sauté them along with the chorizo and onions to enhance the flavors and add more variety to the dish.

Can I freeze Papas Con Chorizo?

While it is possible to freeze Papas Con Chorizo, the texture of the potatoes may change upon thawing and reheating. It is generally recommended to consume the dish fresh for the best taste and texture.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within a few days.