Spicy Mexican-Style Potatoes

Featured in: Snackable Bites

These spicy Mexican-style potatoes offer a crispy exterior and tender inside, enhanced by a smoky blend of paprika, chili, cumin, and cayenne. Sautéed in vegetable oil and brightened with fresh lime juice and garlic, they showcase bold flavors typical of Mexican street food. Perfect as a vibrant side or snack, these potatoes pair well with creamy garnishes or lime wedges for a delightful contrast. Simple to prepare and full of zest, they bring a flavorful twist to everyday potatoes.

Updated on Fri, 13 Feb 2026 16:17:42 GMT
Crispy diced potatoes tossed in smoky Mexican spices and lime, garnished with fresh cilantro for bold street-style flavor. Pin It
Crispy diced potatoes tossed in smoky Mexican spices and lime, garnished with fresh cilantro for bold street-style flavor. | urbanspatula.com

These Spicy Mexican-Style Street Potatoes bring the vibrant flavors of Mexican street food right to your kitchen. Inspired by traditional 'papas' found at street vendors throughout Mexico, these potatoes strike the perfect balance between crispy exterior and tender interior, all while delivering a punch of bold, smoky flavor. The combination of smoked paprika, chili powder, and a hint of lime creates an irresistible dish that works beautifully as a side or standalone snack.

Crispy diced potatoes tossed in smoky Mexican spices and lime, garnished with fresh cilantro for bold street-style flavor. Pin It
Crispy diced potatoes tossed in smoky Mexican spices and lime, garnished with fresh cilantro for bold street-style flavor. | urbanspatula.com

The key to these potatoes is achieving that perfect golden-brown crust while maintaining a tender middle. The aromatic blend of spices toasts slightly in the residual heat of the potatoes, blooming their flavors and creating that authentic street food experience. A final splash of lime juice brightens everything up, while fresh cilantro adds color and herbaceous notes.

Ingredients

  • 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp lime juice
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
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Instructions

Step 1
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Step 2
Add the diced potatoes and cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and crispy on all sides.
Step 3
In a small bowl, combine the salt, smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper.
Step 4
Sprinkle the spice mixture evenly over the potatoes. Stir well to coat.
Step 5
Add the minced garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
Step 6
Remove the skillet from heat and drizzle the potatoes with lime juice.
Step 7
Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with fresh chopped cilantro. Serve hot.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For the crispiest potatoes, don't overcrowd your pan—cook in batches if needed. Patting your potatoes dry after dicing them removes excess moisture and helps them crisp up beautifully. If you find the potatoes sticking to the pan, add a touch more oil rather than stirring too frequently, which can prevent proper browning.

Varianten und Anpassungen

For a heartier dish, add diced bell peppers and onions during the last 5 minutes of cooking. Cheese lovers can sprinkle cotija or queso fresco over the hot potatoes just before serving. For a breakfast twist, top with a fried egg and serve with warm tortillas. Those sensitive to spice can reduce the cayenne and chili powder while still enjoying the smoky flavor from the paprika.

Serviervorschläge

These potatoes make an excellent accompaniment to grilled meats, particularly carne asada or chicken. Serve alongside scrambled eggs for a Mexican-inspired breakfast. For a complete vegetarian meal, pair with black beans, avocado slices, and warm corn tortillas. Don't forget the lime wedges on the side—a fresh squeeze just before eating enhances all the flavors!

Spicy Mexican-style potatoes cooked golden and crispy, seasoned with smoked paprika, chili, and a zesty lime finish. Pin It
Spicy Mexican-style potatoes cooked golden and crispy, seasoned with smoked paprika, chili, and a zesty lime finish. | urbanspatula.com

Whether you're serving these spicy Mexican-style potatoes as part of a festive dinner spread or enjoying them as a satisfying snack, they're sure to bring a taste of vibrant street food culture to your table. The combination of crispy textures and bold flavors makes this simple dish something truly special—proof that sometimes the most straightforward recipes deliver the most memorable flavors.

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Questions & Answers

What type of potatoes work best for this dish?

Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes provide the ideal texture, balancing crispiness and tenderness when cooked.

Can I adjust the spice level?

Yes, increasing the cayenne pepper or adding hot sauce can boost heat according to your taste preferences.

How should I cook the potatoes for optimal crispiness?

Cook diced potatoes in vegetable oil over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until golden and crisp on all sides.

What garnishes complement these potatoes?

Fresh chopped cilantro adds brightness, and serving with lime wedges or creamy sour cream enhances the flavor balance.

Is this dish suitable for vegetarian or vegan diets?

The potatoes themselves are vegetarian; omitting dairy garnishes makes it vegan-friendly as well.

Spicy Mexican-Style Potatoes

Golden, crispy potatoes tossed in smoky, spicy Mexican seasonings and garnished with fresh cilantro.

Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
20 minutes
Overall Time
30 minutes
Created by Carter Phillips


Skill Level Easy

Cuisine Mexican

Portions 4 Serving Size

Diet Preferences Plant-Based, No Dairy, No Gluten

What You’ll Need

Base

01 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced

Cooking

01 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

Spices & Seasonings

01 1 teaspoon salt
02 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
03 1 teaspoon chili powder
04 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
05 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

Aromatics & Finishing

01 2 cloves garlic, minced
02 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
03 Fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish

How-To Steps

Step 01

Heat Oil: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering.

Step 02

Cook Potatoes: Add diced potatoes and cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and crispy on all sides.

Step 03

Prepare Spice Blend: In a small bowl, combine salt, smoked paprika, chili powder, ground cumin, and cayenne pepper.

Step 04

Season Potatoes: Sprinkle spice mixture evenly over potatoes and stir well to coat thoroughly.

Step 05

Add Garlic: Add minced garlic and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant, stirring frequently to prevent burning.

Step 06

Finish with Lime: Remove skillet from heat and drizzle potatoes with lime juice.

Step 07

Serve: Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with fresh chopped cilantro. Serve immediately while hot.

Tools You’ll Need

  • Large skillet
  • Spatula or wooden spoon
  • Small mixing bowl
  • Chef's knife
  • Cutting board

Allergy Warnings

Review every ingredient for allergens and ask a professional if you’re unsure.
  • Contains no common allergens in base preparation
  • Dairy present if served with sour cream or crema

Nutrition Info (for each serving)

These nutrition details are for reference and don’t replace medical guidance.
  • Energy: 180
  • Fats: 7 g
  • Carbohydrates: 30 g
  • Proteins: 4 g