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The Ultimate Crispy Tacos de Papa (Authentic Mexican Potato Tacos)

A row of four golden, crispy potato tacos filled with mashed potato mixture, served on a white plate.
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Make authentic, crispy Tacos de Papa using a simple, flavorful mashed potato filling. These fried potato tacos are a budget-friendly, comforting Mexican classic perfect for your next Taco Night.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 large Russet potatoes, peeled and quartered
  • 1 teaspoon salt, plus more for boiling
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil or lard
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon cumin
  • 12 small corn tortillas
  • Vegetable oil, for frying
  • Toppings: shredded lettuce, crumbled cotija cheese, salsa, sour cream or Mexican crema

Instructions

  1. Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add 1 teaspoon of salt. Bring the water to a boil and cook the potatoes until they are fork-tender, about 15 to 20 minutes.
  2. Drain the potatoes well and return them to the hot, empty pot for one minute to dry out any remaining moisture. Mash the potatoes thoroughly until smooth.
  3. In a small skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil or lard over medium heat. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, and cumin. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Add the spices to the mashed potatoes and mix well to combine. Taste the filling and add salt as needed. This is your potato taco filling.
  5. Warm the corn tortillas briefly in a dry skillet or microwave until they are pliable.
  6. Place about 2 tablespoons of the potato filling onto the center of each warm tortilla. Fold the tortilla in half to create a taco shape. Secure with a toothpick if necessary.
  7. Pour about 1 inch of vegetable oil into a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven. Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C).
  8. Carefully place 3 or 4 tacos into the hot oil, ensuring you do not overcrowd the pan. Fry for 2 to 3 minutes per side, until they are golden brown and crispy.
  9. Remove the crispy tacos from the oil using tongs and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Remove toothpicks before serving.
  10. Serve your Tacos de Papa immediately with your favorite toppings like shredded lettuce, cotija cheese, salsa, and crema.

Notes

  • For the crispiest results, ensure your mashed potatoes are relatively dry before filling the tortillas.
  • If you do not have a deep fryer, you can use an air fryer or bake the assembled tacos at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway, though the texture will be less traditionally fried.
  • These potato tacos are excellent served as a vegetarian meal, or you can mix in cooked, seasoned ground beef into the potato filling for a heartier version.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookincorner.com/crispy-potato-tacos-tacos-de-papa-recipe/