Mojo Potatoes are a flavorful and zesty dish inspired by the vibrant flavors of Cuban cuisine. The term “mojo” refers to a garlicky, citrusy marinade that adds a punch of flavor. When paired with crispy roasted potatoes, these Mojo Potatoes become a perfect side dish to complement grilled meats, seafood, or even just on their own as a snack.Here’s how to make Mojo Potatoes:
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs baby potatoes or Yukon Gold potatoes (or any variety you prefer)
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
- 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional for extra flavor)
- 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper (or to taste)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: Sliced red onion or bell pepper for added flavor and color
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Potatoes:
- Wash and scrub the potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt. If using baby potatoes, you can leave them whole. For larger potatoes, cut them into bite-sized chunks or wedges.
- If you’re using Yukon Gold or other waxy potatoes, you can leave the skin on for extra texture and flavor.
2. Make the Mojo Marinade:
- In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, orange juice, lime juice, minced garlic, ground cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. The combination of citrus and garlic with the warm spices is what gives Mojo Potatoes their signature flavor.
- Optional: You can add sliced red onion or bell peppers to the marinade for added flavor and color.
3. Marinate the Potatoes:
- Place the potatoes in a large bowl or resealable plastic bag and pour the mojo marinade over them.
- Toss the potatoes well to coat them evenly in the marinade.
- Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes. For best results, you can refrigerate and marinate them for 1-2 hours or even overnight.
4. Roast the Mojo Potatoes:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Spread the marinated potatoes in a single layer on the baking sheet. Make sure the potatoes are evenly spaced to allow them to roast properly and become crispy.
- Roast for 30-40 minutes, flipping the potatoes halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside, and tender on the inside.
5. Garnish and Serve:
- Once the Mojo Potatoes are done, remove them from the oven and transfer them to a serving platter.
- Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro over the top for a fresh burst of flavor.
- Serve hot as a side dish with grilled meats, fish, or enjoy them on their own with a dipping sauce!
Tips:
- Crispier Potatoes: For extra crispy potatoes, make sure to spread them out on the baking sheet without overcrowding. You can also broil them for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking to get a bit more color and crunch.
- Flavor Variations: You can customize the mojo marinade by adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat or using a bit of fresh lime zest for an added citrus kick.
- Alternative Cooking Method: If you prefer, you can also cook Mojo Potatoes in an air fryer for around 20-25 minutes at 400°F, shaking the basket halfway through.
These Mojo Potatoes are vibrant, full of flavor, and offer a delightful twist on traditional roasted potatoes. The combination of citrus, garlic, and spices makes them irresistibly tasty and the perfect complement to any meal. Enjoy!