Fried potatoes with paprika and garlic

Fried potatoes with paprika and garlic – A delicious and simple recipe

Total preparation time: 40 minutes
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Number of servings: 4

A brief story about fried potatoes

Fried potatoes are a beloved delicacy in many cultures, with deep roots in global culinary tradition. These versatile tubers are not only accessible but can be transformed into the most savory dishes, such as these fried potatoes with paprika and garlic. The combination of the intense garlic flavors with the sweetness of the paprika gives them a unique touch, perfect to be served as a side dish or as an appetizer.

Necessary ingredients

- 1 kg red potatoes (choose medium-sized potatoes that fry evenly)
- 1-2 tablespoons sweet paprika (or spicy, depending on preferences)
- 1-2 tablespoons garlic powder (or 2-3 cloves of fresh garlic, crushed)
- Salt to taste
- Oil for frying (choose an oil with a high smoke point, such as sunflower or olive oil)

Necessary utensils

- A knife
- A cutting board
- A large bowl
- A kitchen towel or paper towels
- A deep frying pan or wok
- A spatula

Step by step for perfect fried potatoes

1. Preparing the potatoes
Start by peeling the potatoes. This step is essential to achieve a crispy texture. After peeling, wash them well under cold water to remove any impurities. Cut the potatoes lengthwise into slices about 1 cm thick. These will be ideal for frying, having a soft interior and a crispy exterior.

2. Removing excess moisture
It is crucial to dry the potatoes before frying. Use a kitchen towel to wipe them well. This will help achieve a crispy crust, preventing the potatoes from steaming during frying.

3. Seasoning the potatoes
In a large bowl, add the dried potatoes, salt, sweet paprika, and garlic powder. Mix well, ensuring that each slice is evenly coated with spices. If you prefer a more intense flavor, feel free to add more paprika or garlic.

4. Heating the oil
In a deep frying pan, add enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan with a layer of about 1-2 cm. Heat the oil over medium heat. A simple method to check if the oil is ready is to add a small piece of potato - if it starts to sizzle immediately, the oil is ready for frying.

5. Frying the potatoes
Add the potatoes to the pan, being careful not to overcrowd too many slices, to allow for even frying. Fry them for about 10-15 minutes, turning them occasionally with the spatula, until they become golden and crispy.

6. Removing and draining
Once the potatoes are fried to perfection, remove them from the pan and place them on a platter covered with paper towels to absorb excess oil. This step is essential to keep the potatoes crispy.

7. Serving
The fried potatoes with paprika and garlic are ready to serve! They can be enjoyed alongside a yogurt sauce with dill or a spicy mayonnaise. Additionally, a fresh salad can perfectly complement this dish.

Useful tips

- Choosing potatoes: Red potatoes are ideal for frying due to their low starch content, which gives them a crispy texture. But feel free to experiment with other types, such as sweet potatoes for a healthier and colorful option.
- Paprika: Sweet paprika offers a slightly smoky flavor and vibrant color, while spicy paprika adds a bit of heat. Choose based on your preferences.
- Fresh garlic: If using fresh garlic, make sure to crush it well to release the flavors. Fried garlic adds an even more intense taste.

Recipe variations

- Rosemary fried potatoes: Add a few fresh rosemary leaves to the heated oil to give a Mediterranean flavor to the potatoes.
- Spicy fried potatoes: Add chili flakes to achieve a spicy version of the recipe.
- Oven-fried potatoes: If you prefer a healthier option, you can bake the potatoes in the oven. Preheat the oven to 200°C, place the seasoned potatoes on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, and bake for 30-35 minutes, turning them halfway through.

Nutritional information

A serving of fried potatoes with paprika and garlic (approximately 150 g) contains approximately:

- Calories: 250
- Fat: 12 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Fiber: 3 g

Potatoes are a good source of carbohydrates, contributing to energy, while garlic provides benefits for the immune system and helps reduce inflammation. Consuming fried potatoes in moderation can be part of a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use frozen potatoes?
Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely and dry them well before frying to avoid steaming.

2. How can I make the potatoes even crispier?
An effective method is to soak them in cold water for 30 minutes before frying, then dry them well.

3. What sauces can I serve alongside?
Yogurt-based sauces, mayonnaise, ketchup, or chili sauce are excellent to complement the taste of the potatoes.

4. Can they also be prepared in an air fryer?
Yes, the potatoes can be prepared in an air fryer. Oil is optional, but adding a tablespoon helps achieve a crispy crust.

So, if you want to impress your guests or simply indulge in a delicious snack, fried potatoes with paprika and garlic are the perfect choice. Not only are they easy to prepare, but they are also versatile, easily adapting to your preferences. Experiment, adapt, and enjoy every bite!