Abuelos Papas, meaning “Grandfather’s Potatoes,” is a rustic Spanish-inspired dish celebrating crispy potatoes infused with garlic, smoked paprika, and olive oil. This recipe balances golden texture, aromatic spices, and fresh herbs, creating a comforting side dish rooted in simplicity.
Cultured cream or lemon adds brightness, while smoked paprika (pimentón) lends depth, a staple in Iberian cuisine.
How to Make Abuelos Papas Potatoes?
Crispy, garlicky potatoes seasoned with smoky paprika and fresh herbs, inspired by generations of family tradition.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 750g Yukon Gold potatoes (peeled, cubed)
- ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 6 garlic cloves (smashed)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (sweet or hot)
- ½ tsp ground cumin
Aromatics & Fresh Additions
- 1 small yellow onion (finely sliced)
- 1 red bell pepper (julienned, optional)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice or cultured cream
Seasoning
- 1 tsp sea salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp chili flakes (optional)
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Preparing Instructions
- Prep the Potatoes:
Boil potatoes in salted water for 8–10 minutes until par-cooked. Drain and pat dry. - Crisp the Potatoes:
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add potatoes in a single layer, frying until golden (12–15 minutes). Add garlic, onion, and bell pepper; sauté until fragrant. - Season & Toss:
Sprinkle smoked paprika, cumin, salt, pepper, and chili flakes. Toss gently to coat. - Finish & Serve:
Remove from heat. Drizzle with lemon juice or cultured cream. Garnish with parsley. - Servings:
Serves 4 as a side dish.
Presentation & Decoration
- Garnish: Parsley sprigs, lemon wedges, and a dusting of smoked paprika.
- Plating: Serve in a terracotta dish for rustic charm, paired with crusty bread.
Best Time to Eat
- Family Meals: Ideal alongside grilled chicken, chorizo, or roasted vegetables.
- Tapas Spread: Serve warm as part of a shared appetizer board.
Portion Guide
- 1 person: 180g potatoes, 1 tbsp oil, 1 garlic clove
- 4 people: 750g potatoes, ¼ cup oil, 6 garlic cloves
Storage & Shelf Life
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet.
- Freezing: Not recommended—potatoes lose crispness.
- Room Temperature: Consume within 1 hour for best texture.
Allergy Guide
- Vegan: Use lemon juice instead of cultured cream.
- Gluten-Free: Naturally compliant.
- Nightshades: Omit paprika and chili flakes.
Did this recipe bring a taste of tradition to your table? Leave a review or tag us with your Abuelos Papas creation! ✨
Recipe inspired by Iberian home cooking techniques and family-style comfort food.
Anna Reed is a passionate baker and self-taught cook who turned her love for food into a way of life. Growing up surrounded by the rich flavors of homemade meals, she developed a deep appreciation for traditional recipes and the art of baking from scratch. Now, she enjoys experimenting with new flavors, perfecting old-fashioned techniques, and sharing her creations with friends and neighbors who can’t resist the aroma of fresh bread or a warm pie. When she’s not in the kitchen, Anna loves visiting local markets, learning about seasonal ingredients, and finding inspiration in the simple joys of good food and great company.