Is there anything quite like homemade French fries? If you think so, you may not have had the pleasure of trying Cuban papas fritas—affectionately known as papitas. Whether they’re cut into thick batons, thin matchsticks, or delicate rounds, the style often depends on the patience of the person in the kitchen—most likely your grandmother! No matter the shape, they are irresistibly delicious.
Similar to white rice, homemade papas fritas are a beloved weekly staple at the Cuban table. These fries reach new heights when paired with the juicy goodness of a Palomilla steak for the classic bistec con papas fritas, or simply dipped into the rich yolk of a fried egg. There’s truly nothing better!
Tips for Perfect Papas Fritas
- Avoid the Fridge: Never store your potatoes in the refrigerator. Cold temperatures can intensify the starch, making it harder for them to crisp up.
- Soak to De-Starch: As you peel the potatoes, place them in salted water. This not only prevents oxidation but also helps remove excess starch, resulting in crispier fries.
- Seasoning While Hot: Sprinkle salt on your papas fritas as soon as they come out of the oil. The salt adheres better to the hot oil.
- Portion Control: A good rule of thumb is to estimate about one potato per person.
- Quick Soak: If you don’t have time for an extended soak, at least let the potatoes soak while you slice them. This will help reduce surface starch.
- Use the Right Tools: A mesh spider or skimmer is ideal for safely removing the fries from the oil.
Ingredients
- 4 medium purple potatoes, washed and cleaned
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp dried dill
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Thoroughly wash and scrub the potato skins under running water.
- After slicing the potatoes into thin strips, soak them for half an hour in a water bath. Drain the water and pat them dry before placing them in a large bowl.
- Coat the potatoes equally by tossing them with salt and olive oil.
- Spray a baking sheet with cooking spray or drizzle with olive oil, then arrange the potatoes on top.
- Bake for 20 minutes, then flip the fries and bake for an additional 15 to 20 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from the oven and sprinkle dried dill on top. Warm up and serve with your preferred dipping sauce.
How to Make Delicious Papas Fritas
Making papas fritas is incredibly easy! Follow these simple steps to create a crispy, tasty treat.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Potatoes: Start by washing and scrubbing the skin of your potatoes with a small brush and water. Keeping a vegetable brush handy for cleaning root vegetables is a great idea!
- Soak the Potatoes: Slice your potatoes and soak them in water for 30 minutes. This helps reduce acrylamide, a compound formed during cooking. After soaking, pat the potatoes dry.
- Season: In a bowl, mix the dried potatoes with olive oil and salt until they are well coated.
- Bake: Spray a baking sheet with cooking spray and arrange the potatoes in a single layer. Bake in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 35-40 minutes, flipping them halfway through for even crispiness.
- Add Final Touches: Once they are golden and crispy, remove the papas fritas from the oven and sprinkle with your favorite spices. Dried dill is a personal favorite! Now they’re ready to be dipped into your preferred sauce!
Recipe Notes
Here are some tips to customize your papas fritas:
- Potato Variety: Feel free to use any type of potato you have on hand! Purple sweet potatoes are particularly delicious due to their unique flavor and rich phytonutrient content in the skin.
- Alternative Oils: If you prefer, you can substitute olive oil with avocado oil or another cooking oil of your choice.
- Spice It Up: For a kick, add a sprinkle of cayenne pepper and paprika along with the salt before baking.
Sauce Pairings
While I’m a fan of classic ketchup and ranch dressing, there are plenty of delicious options to enjoy with your papas fritas:
- Habanero BBQ Sauce
- BBQ Hummus
- DIY Ranch Mix
- Vegan Green Goddess Dressing
What to Pair with Papas Fritas
I love serving papas fritas on top of a fresh salad with your choice of protein for a satisfying and balanced meal. They also pair wonderfully with burgers, such as:
- Air Fryer Turkey Burgers
- Turkey Mushroom Burgers
- Beetroot Quinoa Burgers
- BBQ Lentil Burgers
Now you’re all set to enjoy your homemade papas fritas! They make a perfect side or snack that can elevate any meal.
Conclusion
In conclusion, making delicious papas fritas at home is a straightforward and rewarding process. With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create crispy, flavorful fries that can be customized to your taste. Whether enjoyed on their own with a variety of dipping sauces or paired with a refreshing salad or hearty burger, papas fritas are a versatile addition to any meal. Your taste buds will appreciate it if you get your potatoes and start cooking!
FAQs About Papas Fritas
1. What type of potatoes are best for papas fritas?
You can use any variety of potatoes, but purple sweet potatoes are a great choice due to their unique flavor and nutrient-rich skin. Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes also work well for a classic taste.
2. Why should I soak the potatoes before cooking?
Soaking the potatoes helps reduce acrylamide formation and removes excess starch, resulting in crispier fries.
3. Can I use a different oil besides olive oil?
Yes! Avocado oil or any preferred cooking oil can be used for coating the potatoes before baking.
4. How can I make my papas fritas spicier?
To add some heat, sprinkle cayenne pepper or paprika along with the salt before baking.
5. What are some good dipping sauces for papas fritas?
Popular options include ketchup, ranch dressing, BBQ sauce, BBQ hummus, and vegan green goddess dressing.
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