Papas chorreadas (potatoes and cheese)

papas_chorreadas_(potatoes_and_cheese)

Colombian cuisine is a diverse and flavorful fusion of indigenous, Spanish, African, and indigenous influences. Within this culinary landscape, there are many beloved dishes that showcase regional ingredients and cooking techniques. One such dish is Papas chorreadas, a popular potato and cheese dish that can be found in households and restaurants throughout the country.

Papas chorreadas is a comfort food favorite that brings together creamy potatoes, a rich tomato-based sauce, and salty cheese. The dish is typically served as a side dish for lunch or dinner and can also be a hearty breakfast or brunch option. The dish’s name comes from the Spanish verb chorrear, which means “to pour over.” In this case, a cheese sauce is poured over boiled potatoes, creating a satisfying and filling meal.

The dish’s origins can be traced back to the Andean region of Colombia, where potatoes have been a staple food for centuries. Potatoes were cultivated by the indigenous people of the Andes long before the arrival of the Spanish colonizers, and they remain a vital ingredient in traditional Colombian dishes to this day. Tomatoes, the other key ingredient of Papas chorreadas, were brought to the Americas by the Spanish and quickly became a popular ingredient in South and Central American cuisine.

There are many variations of Papas chorreadas, depending on the region and the cook’s preferences. Some recipes call for adding other ingredients to the sauce, such as onions, garlic, and cilantro, while others keep it simple with just tomatoes and cheese. Some cooks use fresh cheese, such as queso fresco or queso blanco, while others prefer a stronger-flavored cheese like feta or Parmesan. The type of cheese used will affect the dish’s overall flavor and texture, so it’s essential to choose wisely.

To make Papas chorreadas, potatoes are boiled until tender and then cut into bite-size pieces. The sauce is made by sautéing onions and garlic in oil until softened, then adding diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper. The mixture is simmered until the tomatoes are cooked down and the sauce is thick and flavorful. Finally, the cheese is added and stirred until melted and fully incorporated into the sauce.

Once the sauce is ready, it’s poured over the potatoes, and the dish is served hot. Papas chorreadas can be garnished with chopped fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro, and it’s often served with a side of rice, salad, or meat.

In conclusion, Papas chorreadas is a delicious and comforting dish that showcases the rich and diverse flavors of Colombian cuisine. Whether enjoyed as a side dish or a main meal, this potato and cheese dish is a beloved classic that has been passed down through generations of home cooks and chefs. So, if you’re looking for a new recipe to add to your repertoire, try making Papas chorreadas and experience a taste of Colombia in your own kitchen.

Ingredients:

  • 4 medium sized potatoes
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 2 tomatoes, chopped
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 cup of heavy cream
  • 1 cup of grated white cheese (queso blanco)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil

Instructions:

  1. Peel the potatoes and cut them into small cubes. Boil them in salted water until they’re tender.

  2. While the potatoes cook, heat the vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat.

  3. Add the onion and garlic to the frying pan and sauté until the onion is translucent.

  4. Add the chopped tomatoes and cook until they soften and release their juices.

  5. Add the heavy cream to the frying pan, and bring it to a gentle boil.

  6. Once the cream has boiled, add the grated cheese to the pan and stir until it’s melted.

  7. Reduce the heat to a simmer and let the sauce cook for about 5 minutes, or until it thickens slightly.

  8. Drain the cooked potatoes and add them to the pan with the sauce.

  9. Stir everything together and let it cook for another 5-10 minutes, or until the potatoes are coated in the sauce and heated through.

  10. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot and enjoy!