Grandma’s Classic Mojo Potatoes

Crispy, golden, and bursting with flavor, these Mojo Potatoes are a nostalgic nod to Grandma’s kitchen. Perfectly seasoned and fried to perfection, they’re an irresistible side dish or snack that pairs beautifully with your favorite dips. Whether you’re serving them alongside burgers, grilled meats, or as a standalone treat, these potatoes are sure to become a family favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Crispy & Flavorful: The double-coating technique ensures a crunchy exterior while keeping the inside tender.
• Customizable Seasoning: Adjust spices to suit your taste—mild, spicy, or herby, it’s up to you!
• Perfect for Sharing: These Mojo Potatoes are ideal for parties, game nights, or cozy family dinners.

 Ingredients:

For the Potatoes:

• 500–600g russet potatoes , peeled, sliced into thick sticks, and dried thoroughly
• Oil , for deep frying (vegetable, canola, or peanut oil works well)

For the Coating:

• 1 large egg
• 25ml milk
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup cornstarch

Spices (adjust to taste):

• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp paprika
• ¾ tsp garlic powder
• 1¾ tbsp onion powder
• ¼ tsp oregano
• ½ tsp thyme
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp cayenne (optional, for heat)

For the Dip (Optional):

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste

 Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

1. Peel and slice the potatoes into thick sticks (about 1 cm wide).
2. Pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels to remove excess moisture—this is key to achieving crispiness!

Step 2: Make the Coating Mixture

1. In a shallow dish, combine the flour , cornstarch , and all the spices . Mix well to evenly distribute the seasonings.
2. In a separate bowl, beat together the egg and milk until smooth.

Step 3: Coat the Potatoes

1. Dip each piece of potato into the beaten egg mixture , ensuring it’s fully coated.
2. Roll the potato in the flour mixture , pressing gently to adhere the coating evenly.
3. Place the coated potatoes on a plate or tray while you finish the rest.

Step 4: Fry the Potatoes

1. Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C) . Use enough oil to submerge the potatoes completely.
2. Carefully lower the coated potatoes into the hot oil in small batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry for 4–5 minutes , or until golden brown and crispy.
3. Remove the potatoes with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
4. Repeat with the remaining potatoes, allowing the oil to return to temperature between batches.

Step 5: Make the Dip (Optional)

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise , lemon juice , minced garlic , and smoked paprika .
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the lemon juice or spices as desired.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

1. Arrange the crispy Mojo Potatoes on a serving platter.
2. Serve hot with the prepared dip or your favorite condiment (ketchup, aioli, or ranch also work well!).

Tips for Success:

• Double Fry for Extra Crispiness: For restaurant-quality crunch, fry the potatoes once at 325°F (165°C) for 3–4 minutes, then increase the oil temperature to 375°F (190°C) and fry again until golden and crispy.
• Spice It Up: Add more cayenne or smoked paprika for a spicier kick.
• Storage: Leftover potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days . Reheat in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 5–10 minutes to restore crispiness.
• Air Fryer Option: If you prefer not to deep fry, bake the coated potatoes in a preheated air fryer at 380°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes , shaking halfway through, until crispy.

Nutritional Information (per serving, serves 4):

• Calories: ~280
• Protein: ~5g
• Carbohydrates: ~40g
• Fat: ~12g

Enjoy these Grandma’s Classic Mojo Potatoes as a crispy, flavorful side dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table. With their bold seasoning and satisfying crunch, they’re perfect for any occasion—whether you’re hosting a party or simply craving a comforting snack!