Spicy potatoes

Spicy Potatoes in Tomato Sauce: A Crunchy and Flavorful Delicacy

When it comes to simple yet flavorful dishes, spicy potatoes in tomato sauce are an excellent choice. This recipe brings together perfectly golden, crispy potatoes with a fragrant and spicy tomato sauce that will delight your taste buds. Whether you serve them as an appetizer or a side dish, these potatoes quickly become the stars of your meal.

Recipe History
Potato recipes are an essential part of many culinary cultures around the world. Over time, potatoes have evolved from a staple food to a versatile ingredient used in various dishes. This recipe for spicy potatoes in tomato sauce combines influences from traditional cuisine with a modern twist, making it ideal for those who love bold flavors.

Preparation Time
- Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 30 minutes
- Total time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 4

Ingredients
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- Scotti rice oil, for frying
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 can of tomatoes in their own juice (about 400 g)
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce (make sure to use the original version, labeled Lea & Perrins)
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar
- 1-2 teaspoons hot pepper paste (adjust the amount to taste)
- Salt, to taste

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Preparing the Potatoes:
Start by peeling the potatoes and cutting them into cubes. Ensure the sizes are uniform for even cooking. Once cut, place the potato cubes in a bowl of cold water to prevent oxidation and keep them crispy.

2. Preparing the Tomato Sauce:
In a large skillet, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic and sauté for 3-4 minutes until they become translucent and fragrant.
In a blender, pour in the tomatoes with their juice and process until you achieve a smooth paste. This step is essential for a fine and tasty sauce.

3. Combining the Ingredients:
Pour the tomato paste over the sautéed onion in the skillet. Add the dried thyme and cook over low heat, stirring frequently, until the sauce reduces and thickens, about 10-15 minutes.

4. Frying the Potatoes:
Meanwhile, heat the oil in a separate skillet to a depth of 4-5 cm. Remove the potatoes from the water, drain them well, and dry them on paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving crispy potatoes. Fry the potato cubes in batches, if necessary, until golden and crispy, about 5-7 minutes for each batch. Remove them to paper towels to drain excess oil.

5. Finalizing the Dish:
Once the tomato sauce has thickened, add the Worcestershire sauce, white vinegar, and hot pepper paste, mixing well. Then, add the fried potatoes to the skillet and gently toss to coat them evenly with the sauce.

6. Serving:
Spicy potatoes in tomato sauce are served hot, immediately after preparation, to maintain their crispy texture. You can sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or crumbled feta cheese on top for an extra flavor boost.

Practical Tips
- Choose quality potatoes: Opt for Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, which have the ideal texture for frying.
- Worcestershire sauce: This adds depth of flavor to the sauce, but you can experiment with alternative sauces, such as soy sauce, if you prefer a gluten-free option.
- Spicy or not?: Adjust the level of spiciness according to your preference by adding more or less hot pepper paste.

Delicious Combinations
These spicy potatoes pair perfectly with a fresh green salad or a mint yogurt sauce. You can also serve them alongside a refreshing drink, such as a mint lemonade cocktail or a cold blonde beer, to complete the culinary experience.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
Yes, sweet potatoes add a touch of sweetness and pair well with the spicy sauce.

2. Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
It is recommended to fry the potatoes just before serving to keep them crispy. The sauce can be prepared a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator.

3. What other spices can I add?
You can experiment with smoked paprika, cumin, or even oregano to add new flavors.

Nutritional Benefits
Potatoes are an excellent source of complex carbohydrates, and when fried with rice oil, they become a healthier option due to its high smoke point. Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant, and garlic provides antibacterial and anti-inflammatory benefits.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that's left is to try this delicious recipe for spicy potatoes in tomato sauce. Whether you serve them at a family meal or a gathering with friends, I'm sure they will be a guaranteed hit! Enjoy your meal!