Mexican Potatoes with Chile (Print version)

Tender potatoes simmered in a vibrant chile tomato sauce. Classic Mexican comfort food.

# What goes in:

→ Vegetables

01 - 1.5 lbs potatoes, peeled and cut into 3/4-inch cubes
02 - 1 medium onion, finely chopped
03 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
04 - 2 medium tomatoes, diced

→ Peppers & Chiles

05 - 2-3 jalapeño or Anaheim chiles, seeded and finely chopped

→ Spices & Seasonings

06 - 1 teaspoon ground cumin
07 - 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
08 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

→ Oil & Garnishes

09 - 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
10 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional)

# Cooking steps:

01 - Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat until it shimmers.
02 - Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until softened and translucent.
03 - Stir in the minced garlic and chopped chiles, cooking for 2 minutes until fragrant.
04 - Add the diced tomatoes and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften and release their juices.
05 - Add the cubed potatoes, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to coat everything evenly in the sauce.
06 - Pour in 3/4 cup water, just enough to partially cover the potatoes. Bring to a simmer, then cover and cook for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are tender and the sauce has thickened.
07 - Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired. Serve hot with warm tortillas or use as a taco filling.

# Tips from flavorandfeast:

01 -
  • It is the kind of humble dish that disappears faster than anything fancy you could spend hours making.
  • The chile sauce thickens around the potatoes and creates this velvety coating that soaks into warm tortillas beautifully.
02 -
  • Cut the potatoes to a consistent size or some pieces will dissolve before others are cooked through.
  • Do not skip the lid during simmering because the steam is what gently cooks the potatoes while the sauce thickens underneath.
03 -
  • Let the tomatoes cook down fully before adding the potatoes because a well developed sauce is the difference between good and unforgettable.
  • A squeeze of lime juice right before serving wakes up every flavor on the plate.