Papas arrugadas

Traditional Canary Islands dish

Papas arrugadas (literally "wrinkled potatoes") is a traditional dish from the Canary Islands. It is typically served as an accompaniment to various meals or as a tapa. The dish is known for its distinctive preparation method and unique flavor.

Preparation

Papas arrugadas served with mojo sauce

Papas arrugadas are made using small new potatoes, which are boiled in their skins. The traditional method involves cooking the potatoes in heavily salted water, sometimes with the addition of sea water, until the water evaporates. This leaves the potatoes with a thin crust of salt and a wrinkled appearance.

The potatoes are typically served with mojo, a type of sauce that comes in two main varieties: mojo rojo (red sauce) and mojo verde (green sauce). Mojo rojo is made with red peppers, garlic, paprika, and other spices, while mojo verde is made with green peppers, cilantro, and parsley.

Cultural significance

Papas arrugadas are a staple of Canarian cuisine and are often served at local festivals and celebrations. They are considered a symbol of the Canary Islands' culinary heritage and are popular among both locals and tourists.

The dish reflects the islands' history and geography, as the Canary Islands have a long tradition of potato cultivation due to their favorable climate and volcanic soil.

Variations

While the basic recipe for papas arrugadas remains consistent, there are some regional variations in the type of potatoes used and the specific preparation methods. Some cooks may add herbs or spices to the boiling water to impart additional flavors to the potatoes.

Related pages

• Canarian cuisine
• Mojo (sauce)
• Tapas