Papas Con Chorizo: A Beginner’s Guide to a Flavorful Mexican Classic

Growing up, weekend breakfasts always felt special. They were a time when the family gathered in the kitchen, savoring the smells of sizzling ingredients and enjoying hearty dishes that made mornings unforgettable. One of those iconic dishes was Papas Con Chorizo, a Mexican classic brimming with bold flavors and comforting textures. It’s simple to make yet delivers such a satisfying and fulfilling meal that it quickly becomes a staple.

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For beginner cooks, Papas Con Chorizo is the perfect introduction to Mexican cuisine. With just two main ingredients—potatoes and chorizo—it keeps things straightforward without skimping on flavor. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy mornings or even a quick weeknight dinner. Not to mention, potatoes are affordable and versatile, and chorizo (or in this version, chicken chorizo) adds a smoky, spicy kick that elevates the dish to another level.

Why Papas Con Chorizo is Great for Beginners

1. Simple Ingredients: You only need potatoes, salt, and chorizo (or its alternative). It’s a pantry-friendly recipe.
2. Quick Prep and Cook Time: With only 5 minutes of prep and 10 minutes of cooking, this dish comes together fast.
3. Versatile: Whether you enjoy it on its own, stuff it into tacos, or pair it with eggs, it’s endlessly adaptable.
4. Beginner-Friendly Techniques: Boiling and pan-frying are straightforward methods, making it approachable for first-timers.

Let’s dive into the details, substitutions, and tips to help you master this dish!

Ingredients and Preparation

Here’s what you’ll need to make Papas Con Chorizo:

• 4 russet or gold potatoes (washed, peeled, and diced into 1/4-inch cubes): Russet potatoes provide a fluffy texture, while gold potatoes give a creamier bite. Both work beautifully.
• 1 tablespoon kosher salt: This enhances the natural flavor of the potatoes.
• 9 ounces chicken chorizo (casings removed): Traditional Mexican chorizo is made with pork, but chicken chorizo is a fantastic substitute for those avoiding pork. It retains the same smoky, spicy flavor profile. You can also use beef chorizo as an alternative.

Alternative Ingredients for Flexibility:

• Potatoes: If you’re out of russets or golds, red potatoes or even sweet potatoes can work. Sweet potatoes add a unique, slightly sweet contrast to the spicy chorizo.
• Chorizo: Vegetarian or vegan chorizo is widely available in stores and can easily be swapped in for a plant-based version.
• Seasonings: If you’d like to add a twist, consider sprinkling in garlic powder, paprika, or cumin when combining the potatoes with the chorizo.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making Papas Con Chorizo is as easy as 1-2-3. Follow these simple steps to create this flavorful dish:

1. Boil the Potatoes

• In a deep pot, bring 6 cups of water to a boil. Add 1 tablespoon of kosher salt. The salt helps to season the potatoes from the inside out.
• Carefully add the diced potatoes to the boiling water. Boil over medium-high heat for about 10–15 minutes. Check at the 10-minute mark by poking a potato cube with a fork. It should be tender but not falling apart.
• Once done, strain the potatoes in a colander. Do not rinse them, as this can remove the starchy coating that helps them combine well with the chorizo.

2. Cook the Chorizo

• Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-low heat. Crumble the chicken chorizo into the skillet. Cooking it slowly allows the spices to release their full flavor and prevents burning.
• Cook the chorizo for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’ll know it’s ready when it turns a rich reddish-brown and begins to slightly crisp at the edges.

3. Combine Potatoes and Chorizo

• Add the cooked potatoes to the skillet with the chorizo. Gently fold them together using a spatula or wooden spoon.
• Be careful not to over-stir, as the potatoes can become mushy. A few rough edges are fine, as they’ll absorb the flavors of the chorizo beautifully.
• Cook for an additional 2–3 minutes to let the potatoes soak up the chorizo’s juices.

Beginner Tips and Notes

• Troubleshooting Tips:
  • If your potatoes start to overcook and become too soft, drain them immediately and let them sit for a few minutes to cool. This will firm them up slightly before adding to the skillet.
  • If the chorizo browns too quickly, lower the heat and add a splash of water to the skillet. This creates steam and prevents it from drying out.
• Efficient Prepping:
  • Dice the potatoes as uniformly as possible to ensure even cooking.
  • Peel the potatoes and set them in water while you prepare the chorizo to prevent browning.
• Tool Substitutes:
  • No colander? Use a slotted spoon to carefully remove the potatoes from the water.
  • No cast-iron skillet? A non-stick pan works too, though cast iron retains heat better for crisping the chorizo.

Serving Suggestions

On Its Own: Serve Papas Con Chorizo as-is for a simple yet satisfying breakfast or brunch. Add a sprinkle of chopped cilantro and a drizzle of lime juice for freshness.

Tacos: Stuff the mixture into warm corn or flour tortillas. Top with a dollop of sour cream, avocado slices, or salsa for a taco night twist.

Egg Pairing: Add scrambled or fried eggs on top for a protein-packed breakfast plate.

Sides and Sauces: Pair it with:

• Refried beans for a classic combo.
• Pico de gallo or fresh salsa for a zesty kick.
• Guacamole to balance the spice with creamy goodness.

Storage Tips:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for the best texture. You can also microwave it, but the potatoes may become softer.

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Conclusion

There you have it—Papas Con Chorizo, a dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. Whether you’re a beginner cook looking to expand your recipe repertoire or just someone who appreciates a hearty, flavorful meal, this recipe has something for everyone. With its simple ingredients, quick preparation, and endless versatility, it’s no wonder this classic Mexican dish has stood the test of time.

I’d love to hear about your experience making this recipe! Did you try it with chicken or beef chorizo? Perhaps you put your own spin on it by adding your favorite toppings or sides? Share your thoughts, tips, or even photos in the comments below. Let’s inspire each other to keep exploring and enjoying delicious food!