Mojo Potatoes Recipe
Description
Mojo Potatoes are crispy, seasoned potato wedges coated in a spiced batter and deep-fried to golden perfection. Inspired by the famous Shakey’s Mojo Potatoes, these are crunchy on the outside and tender inside. They make a great side dish, snack, or party appetizer.
Ingredients
For the Potatoes:
- 3 large russet potatoes (or any starchy potatoes)
- Water for boiling
- 1 teaspoon salt
For the Batter:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup cornstarch (for extra crispiness)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1 egg (for binding)
- 1 cup milk (or buttermilk for richer flavor)
For Frying:
- Vegetable oil (for deep frying)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
- Wash and scrub the potatoes thoroughly. No need to peel them.
- Cut the potatoes into thick, even wedges.
- Boil water in a pot and add salt. Parboil the potatoes for 5-7 minutes until slightly tender but not fully cooked.
- Drain and let them cool.
Step 2: Make the Batter
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, baking powder, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper.
- In another bowl, whisk together the egg and milk.
- Gradually mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until a smooth batter forms. The consistency should be thick enough to coat the potatoes but not too runny.
Step 3: Fry the Mojo Potatoes
- Heat oil in a deep pan or fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Dip each potato wedge into the batter, ensuring an even coating.
- Carefully place them in the hot oil and fry for 3-5 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove and drain on a wire rack or paper towel.
Step 4: Serve
- Serve hot with ranch dressing, cheese sauce, or ketchup.
Notes & Tips
✅ Potato Choice: Russet potatoes work best because they hold their shape well and become crispy when fried.
✅ Parboiling Tip: Don’t overcook the potatoes when boiling, or they’ll become too soft to fry.
✅ Batter Consistency: If the batter is too thick, add a bit of milk. If too runny, add more flour.
✅ Oil Temperature: Use a thermometer to keep the oil at 350°F; too hot will burn them, too cool will make them greasy.
✅ Air Fryer Option: Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Servings & Nutritional Info
Servings: 4-5
Per Serving:
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sodium: 400mg
Health Benefits
🥔 Potatoes provide essential nutrients like vitamin C, B6, and potassium.
🔥 Paprika & Garlic Powder add antioxidants and anti-inflammatory benefits.
💪 Egg & Milk provide protein and calcium.
⚡ Cornstarch makes them crispier with less oil absorption compared to just flour.
Q&A Section
🔹 Q: Can I make Mojo Potatoes ahead of time?
✔️ Yes! After parboiling, store them in the fridge and fry when needed.
🔹 Q: Can I use a different flour?
✔️ Yes, you can use rice flour for extra crispiness or whole wheat flour for a healthier version.
🔹 Q: How do I store leftovers?
✔️ Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer for crispiness.
🔹 Q: Can I bake them instead of frying?
✔️ Yes! Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway.
Enjoy your homemade Mojo Potatoes! 🍟🔥