Crispy, golden, and bursting with flavor, Portuguese Fried Potatoes (Batatas à Portuguesa) are a mouthwatering side dish that will elevate any meal. Thinly sliced potatoes are fried to perfection in rich olive oil, creating an irresistible crunch, and then tossed with fragrant fried garlic, a touch of smoky paprika, and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a vibrant finish. This classic Portuguese recipe combines simple ingredients with expert technique, ensuring each bite is perfectly seasoned and satisfying. Serve these fried potatoes alongside roasted meats, grilled seafood, or as a standalone snack to impress your guests with authentic Mediterranean flavors. Perfectly crispy yet tender, this versatile dish captures the essence of Portuguese comfort food at its best!
Peel the potatoes and cut them into thin rounds about 1/4 inch thick. Place them in a large bowl of cold water to prevent oxidation and remove excess starch while you prepare the other ingredients.
Peel the garlic cloves and crush them lightly with the flat side of a knife, keeping them intact.
Heat a large, heavy-bottomed frying pan over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Allow it to heat up until shimmering but not smoking.
Dry the potato slices thoroughly with a clean kitchen towel to remove excess moisture. This will help them fry evenly and prevent oil splatter.
Working in batches, fry the potato slices in the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry each batch for about 4–5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crisp. Remove each batch using a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
Once all the potatoes are fried, reduce the heat to low and add the crushed garlic cloves to the oil. Fry the garlic for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and fragrant. Remove the garlic with a slotted spoon and set aside.
In a large bowl, gently toss the fried potatoes with salt, paprika, and the fried garlic. Adjust the seasoning to taste.
Transfer the potatoes to a serving dish and garnish with finely chopped fresh parsley. Serve immediately while hot and crispy.
Calories |
4164 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 337.8 g | 433% | |
| Saturated Fat | 52.5 g | 262% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 31.8 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 2494 mg | 108% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 258.9 g | 94% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 27.5 g | 98% | |
| Total Sugars | 14.3 g | ||
| Protein | 31.2 g | 62% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 217 mg | 17% | |
| Iron | 15.7 mg | 87% | |
| Potassium | 6561 mg | 140% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.