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Authentic Crispy Tacos de Papa (Mexican Potato Tacos)

Four golden, pan-fried potato tacos filled with mashed potato mixture, served on a white plate.

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Make authentic Tacos de Papa, crispy fried Mexican potato tacos filled with creamy, spiced mashed potatoes. This easy homemade tacos recipe is budget friendly and perfect for your next taco night.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 large Russet potatoes, peeled and quartered
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 1/2 white onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 12 small corn tortillas
  • Vegetable oil for frying
  • Toppings: shredded lettuce, crumbled cotija cheese, salsa, sour cream or Mexican crema

Instructions

  1. Place the peeled and quartered potatoes in a large pot and cover with salted water. Bring to a boil and cook until fork-tender, about 15 to 20 minutes. Drain the potatoes well.
  2. While potatoes cook, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic, cumin, oregano, and chili powder. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Mash the cooked potatoes until smooth. Stir in the cooked onion and spice mixture, and season generously with salt and pepper. Mix until everything is combined into a flavorful potato filling.
  4. Warm the corn tortillas briefly in a dry skillet or microwave to make them pliable.
  5. Place about 2 tablespoons of the potato filling onto the center of each tortilla. Fold the tortilla in half to create a half-moon shape. Secure with a toothpick if necessary to keep them closed during frying.
  6. Pour about 1 inch of vegetable oil into a large, deep skillet and heat to 350°F (175°C).
  7. Carefully place 3 or 4 tacos into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 2 to 3 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
  8. Remove the crispy potato tacos from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Remove toothpicks before serving.
  9. Serve the Tacos de Papa immediately topped with your favorite fixings like lettuce, cheese, salsa, and crema.

Notes

  • For extra flavor in the filling, add 1/4 cup of shredded Monterey Jack cheese to the mashed potatoes before assembling the tacos.
  • If you prefer not to deep fry, you can crisp these up in an air fryer at 375°F for about 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
  • To make these vegan potato tacos, skip the cheese in the filling and use vegan sour cream or avocado slices as a topping.

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