Papas Con Chile

There’s something irresistibly comforting about a plate of Papas Con Chile. This traditional Mexican dish brings together the earthy flavors of potatoes and the smoky heat of guajillo peppers, creating a deliciously satisfying meal or side dish. Whether served alongside grilled meats or as a standalone delight, Papas Con Chile is sure to impress. With a handful of simple ingredients, you can whip up this flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

Top Reasons to Make Papas Con Chile

• Flavorful & Satisfying: The combination of potatoes and guajillo peppers creates a rich, savory flavor that’s hard to resist.
• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious dish ready in no time.
• Versatile: Enjoy Papas Con Chile as a side dish, breakfast item, or even as a filling for tacos or burritos.
• Budget-Friendly: Made with affordable ingredients, this recipe is easy on the wallet.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite toppings or mix in additional vegetables to suit your taste.

What to Buy

• Dried Guajillo Peppers: 6 dried guajillo peppers, rinsed and stems removed, for that signature smoky flavor.
• Vegetable Oil: 1 1/2 tablespoons for sautéing.
• Yukon Gold Potatoes: 1 pound, peeled and cubed, for a creamy texture.
• Kosher Salt: To taste, enhancing the overall flavor.
• Garlic: 1 garlic clove for that aromatic kick.
• Red Onion: 1/4 medium red onion, sliced (optional), for added sweetness.
• Ground Cumin: A pinch to add depth to the dish.
• Garnish: Chopped scallions or cilantro for freshness.
• Lime Wedges: For serving, adding a zesty finish.

Equipment at a Glance

• Medium Pot: For boiling the potatoes.
• Blender or Food Processor: To puree the guajillo peppers with garlic and onion.
• Skillet: For sautéing the potatoes and mixing in the sauce.
• Cutting Board and Knife: Essential for chopping ingredients.

From Start to Finish: Papas Con Chile

Step 1: Prepare the Guajillo Sauce

Begin by placing the rinsed guajillo peppers in a pot of boiling water. Let them soak for about 10-15 minutes until they are softened. Once softened, drain the peppers and place them in a blender or food processor. Add the garlic clove and the optional red onion. Blend until smooth, adding a little water if necessary to achieve a pourable consistency.

Step 2: Cook the Potatoes

In a medium pot, add the cubed Yukon Gold potatoes and cover them with water. Add a pinch of kosher salt. Bring to a boil and cook until the potatoes are tender, about 10-12 minutes. Drain the potatoes and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Potatoes

In a skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the drained potatoes and sauté for about 5 minutes, allowing them to develop a golden color.

Step 4: Combine with Sauce

Pour the guajillo sauce over the sautéed potatoes. Add a pinch of ground cumin for added flavor. Stir well to combine and let everything cook together for an additional 5-7 minutes, allowing the potatoes to soak in the flavors.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Remove the skillet from the heat. Serve the Papas Con Chile hot, garnished with chopped scallions or cilantro. Don’t forget to add lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor!

Seasonal Flavor Boosts

• Fresh Corn: Add cooked corn kernels for a sweet crunch.
• Bell Peppers: Sauté diced bell peppers along with the potatoes for added color and flavor.
• Cheese: Sprinkle crumbled queso fresco or shredded cheese on top before serving.
• Avocado: Serve with slices of avocado for creaminess.

Testing Timeline

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Shelf Life & Storage

Leftover Papas Con Chile can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving. For longer storage, consider freezing the dish for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Quick Q&A

Can I use other types of potatoes?

Yes! While Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for their creamy texture, you can use other varieties like Russet or red potatoes. Just ensure they are cut into even cubes for consistent cooking.

What can I serve with Papas Con Chile?

Papas Con Chile pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, tacos, or even as a filling for burritos. You can also serve it with a side of rice or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Can I make Papas Con Chile ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the potatoes and guajillo sauce in advance. Just combine them right before serving to keep the potatoes from getting too soft.

Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?

This recipe is already vegetarian, but you can enhance the flavor by adding roasted vegetables or beans for protein.

Save & Share

If you loved making Papas Con Chile, don’t forget to share your creation with friends and family! Snap a photo, post it on social media, and tag your favorite food bloggers. Sharing delicious food is a wonderful way to connect with others and inspire them to try new recipes.

With its vibrant flavors and satisfying texture, Papas Con Chile is sure to become a favorite in your household. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and enjoy this hearty dish that brings a taste of Mexico right to your dinner table. Happy cooking!