Revolconas potatoes, also known as patatas meneás, machaconas, or revueltas, are a beloved Spanish dish from the regions of Castilla y León and Extremadura. This hearty mashed potato recipe is traditionally served as a tapa and is known for its rich flavors, thanks to the addition of crispy, savory pork on top. Perfect for pairing with a cold beer, revolconas potatoes are an iconic comfort food, offering a taste of Spanish culinary heritage in every bite. While the dish might appear simple, the quality of ingredients and attention to detail make all the difference in creating the best experience.
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Ingredients for the Perfect Revolconas Potatoes
Creating authentic revolconas potatoes starts with selecting the right ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Potatoes: Ideally, use new potatoes or cachelos for a smooth, creamy texture.
- Pork Belly or Soria Adobo Pancetta: This crispy topping is essential for a true revolconas experience. Soria pancetta brings an authentic Spanish flavor.
- Olive Oil: A generous amount adds richness.
- Smoked Paprika (Pimentón de la Vera): This spice adds depth and is a staple in Spanish cooking.
- Garlic: For a touch of flavor that complements the potatoes and pork.
- Salt: Enhances all the flavors.
Step-by-Step Guide: Making Revolconas Potatoes
- Prepare the Potatoes
- Start by peeling and cubing the potatoes. Boil them in salted water until they are soft enough to mash, around 15-20 minutes.
- Cook the Pork Belly
- While the potatoes are boiling, cut the pork into small chunks and fry in olive oil until golden and crispy. Remove from the pan and set aside, reserving a bit of the pork fat for added flavor.
- Sauté Garlic and Paprika
- Add more oil to the same pan, and sauté the garlic until golden. Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika and stir quickly to prevent it from burning.
- Mash the Potatoes
- Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Begin mashing, gradually adding the garlic and paprika-infused oil, along with a bit of the reserved pork fat for flavor. Continue mashing until smooth and well-blended.
- Serve and Top with Crispy Pork
- Scoop the mashed potatoes onto small plates for tapas-style servings and top with the crispy pork pieces. Add paprika on top for color.
Expert Tips for the Best Revolconas Potatoes
- Quality Ingredients Matter: Use high-quality potatoes and pancetta for the best results. Soria pancetta, known for its rich flavor, is a fantastic choice.
- Serve as a Tapa: Due to its richness, revolconas potatoes work best in small portions, perfect for pairing with a drink.
- The texture is Key: Achieve a creamy mash by thoroughly mashing the potatoes and integrating the paprika and garlic oil slowly. This helps the flavors meld perfectly.
Related Spanish Recipes to Try
If you love revolconas potatoes, there are other Spanish dishes you’ll enjoy:
- Chorizo a la Sidra: This Asturian dish features chorizo cooked in cider for a sweet and savory flavor.
- Hornazo de Salamanca: Stuffed meat pie from Salamanca, typically filled with chorizo, ham, and bacon.
- Bollo Preñao: Small bread rolls stuffed with chorizo, a popular tapa from northern Spain.
Each recipe brings something unique to the table and pairs beautifully with revolconas potatoes for a full Spanish tapas experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make revolconas potatoes without pork?
Yes, you can skip the pork topping for a vegetarian version. However, the crispy pork is a traditional element that adds flavor.
2. What’s the best type of potato to use?
New potatoes or cachelos work best because they mash smoothly and absorb flavors well.
3. Can I prepare revolconas potatoes in advance?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can make the mashed potatoes ahead and add the crispy pork before serving.
4. Is smoked paprika essential?
Yes, smoked paprika (pimentón) gives the dish its smoky flavor. If possible, use Pimentón de la Vera, a high-quality Spanish paprika.
Conclusion: Savoring Spanish Tradition
Revolconas potatoes are a flavorful, comforting dish that brings the warmth of Spanish cuisine into any home. With the right ingredients, a few expert tips, and a touch of Spanish tradition, you can enjoy this classic tapa just as it’s served in the bars of Castilla y León and Extremadura. Pair it with other Spanish tapas for a complete, delicious experience that celebrates the best of Spain’s culinary heritage. So grab a good olive oil and quality pancetta. Get ready to dive into this delightful dish!
5 Powerful Steps to Perfect Revolconas Potatoes Recipe
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs (700g) Potatoes (new potatoes or Yukon Gold for a creamy texture)
- 5 oz (150g) Pork belly or pancetta (preferably Soria adobo pancetta for authentic flavor)
- ¼ cup (60ml) Olive Oil
- 3 Garlic cloves, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp Smoked paprika (ideally Pimentón de la Vera)
- Salt to taste
- Additional smoked paprika for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the PotatoesPeel and Cube: Peel 1.5 lbs of potatoes and cut them into medium-sized cubes to ensure even cooking.Boil: Place the potatoes in a large pot, cover with cold water, add a generous pinch of salt, and bring to a boil. Let them cook for 15-20 minutes, or until they are fork-tender.
- Cook the Pork Belly (or Pancetta)Heat Oil: In a skillet, heat 2 tbsp of olive oil over medium-high heat.Fry the Pork: Add the pork belly or pancetta cut into small, bite-sized pieces. Fry until golden and crispy, around 8-10 minutes. Remove the pork pieces with a slotted spoon and set them aside. Reserve the remaining oil in the pan, which now contains delicious pork flavor.
- Sauté Garlic and PaprikaLower Heat: With the oil still in the pan, reduce the heat to medium.Cook Garlic: Add the sliced garlic and cook for about 1-2 minutes until golden, being careful not to burn it.Add Paprika: Add 1 tbsp of smoked paprika and stir quickly to combine with the oil, cooking for only about 30 seconds. (Paprika can burn easily, so make sure to keep stirring.)
- Mash the PotatoesMash with Oil and Garlic Mixture: Add the garlic-paprika oil to the drained potatoes and mash until smooth, using a potato masher or fork. Gradually add more olive oil (2-3 tbsp) to reach the desired creamy consistency.Season to Taste: Add salt to taste and mix well.
- Serve and GarnishPortion Out: Spoon the mashed potatoes onto small plates or bowls for a tapas-style serving.Add Crispy Pork: Top each serving with the crispy pork pieces.Garnish: Sprinkle with a bit of extra smoked paprika if desired for color and flavor.
