Papas Arrugadas con Mojo
Bocadillos • España
Acerca de Papas Arrugadas con Mojo
Canarian wrinkled potatoes with spicy red and green mojo sauces
How to Make Papas Arrugadas con Mojo (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Papas Arrugadas con Mojo are an iconic snack from the Canary Islands, Spain. These 'wrinkly potatoes' are small, local potatoes cooked in sea salt, giving them their signature texture and salty crust. Traditionally served with vibrant mojo sauces—usually a spicy red (mojo rojo) and a tangy green (mojo verde)—this dish highlights Spain’s love for simple, fresh ingredients and bold flavors. The combination of tender, lightly salted potatoes and aromatic sauces creates a delightful contrast in taste and texture. This snack is deeply rooted in Spanish culinary tradition, often enjoyed as a tapa or appetizer in social gatherings and family meals. Its vegan and vegetarian profile makes it accessible to a wide audience, and the dish celebrates the agricultural richness of the Canary Islands. Papas Arrugadas con Mojo are not only delicious but also a refreshing, healthy alternative to typical fried snacks. Their low-fat preparation and use of whole, plant-based ingredients make them a smart choice for health-conscious eaters and anyone exploring Spanish cuisine.
Ingredients(for 1 medium plate (approx. 200g potatoes with sauces))
- 400g Small new potatoes (Canarian papas or baby potatoes) (Papas arrugadas)
- 50g Coarse sea salt (Essential for the wrinkled effect)
- 1/2 medium Red bell pepper (For mojo rojo)
- 3 Garlic cloves (Divided between mojos)
- 1/2 cup Fresh cilantro (coriander) (For mojo verde)
- 2 tbsp Extra virgin olive oil (Divided for both sauces)
- 2 tsp Red wine vinegar (For both mojos)
- 1 tsp Cumin seeds (For both mojos)
- 1 tsp Mild smoked paprika (For mojo rojo)
- 1/4 medium Green bell pepper (For mojo verde) - optional
- 2 tbsp Fresh parsley (Optional for garnish) - optional
Instructions
- 1
Wash the potatoes thoroughly without peeling them. Place them in a large pot and cover with just enough water to reach the top of the potatoes.
5 minutes
Scrub potatoes well to retain the skin for extra fiber.
- 2
Add the sea salt to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered until potatoes are tender and water has almost evaporated (about 20 minutes).
20 minutes
Do not cover the pot; uncovered cooking helps the skins wrinkle.
- 3
Once cooked, drain any remaining water and return the pot to low heat. Shake the pot gently until the skins become wrinkled and dry.
2 minutes
Keep the potatoes moving to prevent sticking and ensure even wrinkling.
- 4
For Mojo Rojo: In a blender, combine red bell pepper, 2 garlic cloves, 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp vinegar, cumin, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt. Blend until smooth.
5 minutes
Adjust paprika and pepper for more or less spice.
Why This Dish is Healthy
This dish is a healthy choice because it uses whole, minimally processed ingredients, is low in saturated fat, and does not involve frying. The use of fresh herbs and vegetables in the sauces boosts the nutrient profile, while the potatoes provide satiety and energy without added calories. Suitable for most diets, Papas Arrugadas con Mojo is a balanced snack that fits well into a calorie-conscious lifestyle.
Papas Arrugadas con Mojo is naturally low in fat and cholesterol-free, thanks to its simple preparation and use of extra virgin olive oil in moderation. Potatoes are a good source of complex carbohydrates, vitamin C, potassium, and dietary fiber. The mojo sauces, rich in herbs and peppers, provide antioxidants, vitamins A, K, and E. The absence of animal products makes this dish suitable for vegan and vegetarian diets, and the fiber content supports digestive health.
Pro Tips
- 💡Choose small, waxy potatoes for the best wrinkled skin.
- 💡Let the mojo sauces rest for 1 hour before serving for deeper flavor.
- 💡Do not peel the potatoes; the skin adds authentic taste and nutrients.
Storage & Serving
Store leftover potatoes and sauces separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat potatoes in a dry pan or oven to restore texture.
Best served: Lunch or Snack
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 140.0 kcal |
| Protein | 3.0 g |
| Carbohydrates | 20.0 g |
| Total Fat | 5.0 g |
| Fiber | 2.0 g |