As I sank my teeth into a crispy, golden slice of Mojo Potatoes, it was like traveling back to those bustling moments at Shakey’s, filled with laughter and the irresistible aroma of fried goodness. This delightful copycat recipe captures the same magic, making it perfect for cozy movie nights or lively gatherings. Best of all, these Mojo Potatoes are a quick and easy snack that will impress your guests, and they can be easily customized to suit your taste. Whether paired with a rich homemade gravy or your favorite dip, these savory treats are bound to become a crowd-pleaser in your kitchen. Are you ready to whip up a batch of these crunchy sensations? Let’s get started!
Why Are These Mojo Potatoes So Irresistible?
Crispiness at its best: These Mojo Potatoes are perfectly fried to achieve that golden, crunchy exterior you crave.
Flavor-packed bites: With a rich coating of yogurt and spices, each bite bursts with savory goodness, reminiscent of classic Shakey’s.
Versatile option: Customize your dish with sweet potatoes or kick up the heat with spices like cayenne for a fiery twist.
Perfect for gatherings: Whether it’s movie night or a dinner party, these crispy delights are sure to disappear from the plate!
Quick and easy: From prep to plate, this recipe saves time without sacrificing flavor, making it a go-to for busy home cooks.
Pair these with a tangy ranch dressing or a homemade gravy to elevate your Mojo Potatoes, just like in my other recipes for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Potatoes or Garlic Butter Potatoes!
Mojo Potatoes Ingredients
• Dive into making the perfect Mojo Potatoes with these simple ingredients that promise flavor and crunch.
For the Potatoes
- Medium-sized Potatoes – Select washed potatoes for the best texture; they form the hearty base of this dish.
- Water – This ensures even cooking during the boiling process before frying.
- Rock Salt – Enhances flavor while boiling for that extra burst of taste.
For the Coating
- Yogurt – Serves as a tasty adhesive for the breading; feel free to substitute with buttermilk or sour cream for a delightful twist.
- Chicken Breading Mix – Delivers the crispy, satisfying crunch; homemade seasoned flour can be a gluten-free option here.
- Paprika Powder (optional) – Adds both lovely color and flavor; substitute with cayenne pepper for a spicy kick!
For Frying
- Oil for Frying – Essential for achieving that glorious golden-brown crust, aim for about 3/4 inch depth for best results.
Now that you have everything ready, you’re one step closer to enjoying divine Mojo Potatoes!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Mojo Potatoes
Step 1: Preparation
Begin by washing medium-sized potatoes thoroughly. Once clean, slice them into ¼ inch thick pieces to ensure uniform cooking and a delightful crunch. Arrange the potato slices in a bowl, ready for the next step in creating your crispy Mojo Potatoes.
Step 2: Boil
In a medium pot, bring 4 cups of water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of rock salt to the bubbling water, then carefully add the sliced potatoes. Boil the potato slices for about 3 minutes, watching for them to slightly soften but not break apart. Drain the potatoes and let them cool completely.
Step 3: Coat
Once the potato slices have cooled, transfer them to a large mixing bowl. Pour in 1 cup of yogurt, ensuring each slice is evenly coated in the tangy mixture. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect layer of flavor and helping the breading stick to your Mojo Potatoes.
Step 4: Prepare Oil
In a large frying pan, heat 1-2 cups of oil over medium heat. To test if the oil is hot enough, drop a small piece of potato into the oil; it should sizzle immediately. Aim for a depth of about 3/4 inch in the pan to ensure even frying and that crispy texture you desire.
Step 5: Breading
On a large plate, combine the chicken breading mix and optional paprika powder, blending well. Take each yogurt-coated potato slice and coat it thoroughly with the breading mixture. Ensure a generous layer of breading for that satisfying crunch in your Mojo Potatoes.
Step 6: Fry
Carefully drop the coated potato slices into the hot oil, taking care not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn a beautiful golden brown. Keep an eye on the temperature, adjusting the heat if necessary to maintain that perfect frying temperature.
Step 7: Drain
Once the Mojo Potatoes are golden and crispy, use a slotted spatula to transfer them onto a plate lined with paper towels. This will help absorb any excess oil, ensuring your crispy delights stay delightful and crunchy, ready for serving.
Step 8: Serve
Arrange the freshly fried Mojo Potatoes on a serving dish. They’re delicious when served warm and can be enjoyed with homemade gravy or your favorite dipping sauce. Get ready to relish these crispy bites that are sure to be a hit at any gathering!
How to Store and Freeze Mojo Potatoes
Fridge: Store any leftover Mojo Potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days to maintain their flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooled, fried Mojo Potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy these potatoes again, reheat them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes to retain their crispiness.
Avoid sogginess: To prevent moisture issues, ensure the potatoes are fully cooled before refrigeration or freezing.
Mojo Potatoes Variations & Substitutions
Don’t hesitate to get creative with your Mojo Potatoes—there are so many delightful ways to customize this recipe!
- Sweet Potato Swap: Use sweet potatoes for a sweeter, vibrant twist that pairs well with savory dips.
- Gluten-Free Alternative: Substitute the chicken breading mix with homemade seasoned gluten-free flour for a light, crispy coating.
- Tangy Twist: Try buttermilk or sour cream instead of yogurt for a different tang and creamy texture.
- Spice It Up: Add spices like garlic powder, onion powder, or cayenne pepper into the breading for a flavorful kick that tantalizes the taste buds.
- Herb Infusion: Mix in dried herbs like oregano or thyme with the breading for an aromatic touch that elevates the flavor.
- Veggie Delight: Experiment by adding thinly sliced zucchini or eggplant alongside the potatoes for a colorful and textured dish.
- Cheesy Goodness: Sprinkle grated Parmesan or cheddar cheese over the potatoes just before serving for a melty, savory finishing touch.
- Crispy Cheese Crust: For an indulgent treat, coat the potatoes with crushed tortilla chips or panko breadcrumbs before frying for that extra crunch.
As you explore these variations, don’t forget to serve your Mojo Potatoes with a tasty dip, like ranch dressing or homemade gravy. You can also try them alongside my Garlic Shrimp Potatoes for a delightful twist on flavors!
Expert Tips for Mojo Potatoes
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Uniform Slices: Cut potatoes evenly to ensure consistent cooking throughout, avoiding any undercooked or overly crispy pieces.
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Avoid Overcrowding: Fry in batches to keep oil temperature steady; overcrowding can lead to soggy Mojo Potatoes instead of that desired crunch.
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Temperature Check: Ensure the oil is hot before frying by testing with a small piece of potato; this will lead to perfectly golden and crispy results.
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Flavor Experimentation: Don’t hesitate to personalize your Mojo Potatoes by mixing in different spices with the breading, or consider using sweet potatoes for a unique twist.
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Cooling: Allow boiled potatoes to cool completely before coating them with yogurt to enhance the adherence of the breading, leading to an even better crunch!
Make Ahead Options
These Mojo Potatoes are a lifesaver for busy weeknights and can be prepped up to 24 hours in advance! Start by slicing the washed potatoes and boiling them with rock salt. After draining and cooling, toss the potato slices in yogurt for flavorful coating. Store the coated potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you’re ready to fry them. This not only saves time but ensures they’re just as delicious when cooked. When you’re ready to serve, simply heat oil in a pan, coat the potato slices in the breading, and fry until golden and crispy for that perfect tender crunch!
What to Serve with Crispy and Flavorful Copycat Mojo Potatoes
Complement your crispy, golden bites with perfect pairings that elevate your meal experience.
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Homemade Gravy: This rich sauce draping over the potatoes adds a savory dimension that enhances every crunchy bite.
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Ranch Dressing: A tangy, creamy dip that creates a delightful contrast to the crispy texture, making it a crowd favorite.
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Spicy Chili Dip: The heat from the chili dip complements the Mojo Potatoes beautifully, offering a flavor explosion with each crunch.
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Creamy Coleslaw: The cool, crispness of coleslaw balances out the warm, fried potatoes, bringing freshness to your plate.
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Sweet Potato Wedges: Pairing these Mojo Potatoes with sweet potato wedges creates an appealing color contrast and a sweet-savory flavor balance.
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Garlic Bread: The garlic’s aromatic essence melds wonderfully with the fried goodness, providing a satisfying combination alongside your potatoes.
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Sparkling Lemonade: A refreshing drink that cuts through the richness of the dish, leaving you wanting more!
These pairings are not just side items; they are perfect companions to your joyful moments around the table, making every bite of Mojo Potatoes even more memorable!
Mojo Potatoes Recipe FAQs
What type of potatoes work best for Mojo Potatoes?
Absolutely! Medium-sized, washed potatoes are perfect for Mojo Potatoes. They provide the right texture and structure. You can experiment with sweet potatoes too for a unique flavor twist!
How should I store leftover Mojo Potatoes?
To keep your Mojo Potatoes fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. They taste best when enjoyed fresh, but this method helps retain their flavor.
Can I freeze Mojo Potatoes?
Very! To freeze Mojo Potatoes, allow them to cool completely after frying. Then, lay them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, reheat them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes to bring back the crunch!
What if my Mojo Potatoes are not crispy enough?
If your Mojo Potatoes come out a tad soft, don’t worry! Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying—test with a small piece of potato that should sizzle immediately. Fry in batches to avoid overcrowding, as this can cool the oil and lead to less crispy results.
Are there any dietary considerations for serving Mojo Potatoes?
Absolutely! If you have guests with dietary restrictions, opt for yogurt alternatives like buttermilk or sour cream for those with lactose intolerance. Additionally, you can easily make this recipe gluten-free by using a homemade seasoned flour instead of a chicken breading mix. Always check ingredients to avoid allergens!
Crispy Mojo Potatoes Everyone Will Love at Home
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Wash medium-sized potatoes thoroughly. Slice them into ¼ inch thick pieces.
- Boil 4 cups of water, add 1 tablespoon of rock salt, and add the sliced potatoes. Boil for about 3 minutes.
- Drain potatoes and let them cool completely.
- Transfer cooled potato slices to a bowl, pour in 1 cup of yogurt, and coat evenly.
- In a frying pan, heat 1-2 cups of oil over medium heat.
- Combine chicken breading mix and optional paprika on a plate. Coat yogurt-covered potato slices with the mixture.
- Fry coated potato slices in hot oil for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Drain on paper towels and serve warm with dipping sauce.
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