Patatas Revolconas
Shepherd's Mashed Potatoes
A hearty and rustic mashed potato dish from Extremadura, Spain. Characterized by its vibrant red hue from pimentón (paprika) and rich flavor, often served as a tapa or a comforting side. Traditionally made with simple ingredients, it's a true taste of shepherd's fare.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 kg Potatoes(Waxy varieties like Yukon Gold or Maris Piper work best as they hold their shape when boiled and mash well.)
- 1 tbsp Pimentón de la Vera (Spanish paprika)(Use sweet (dulce) or bittersweet (agridulce) pimentón for authentic flavor and color. Smoked paprika is essential for this dish.)
- 4 cloves Garlic(Peeled and roughly chopped.)
- 100 ml Olive oil(Good quality extra virgin olive oil for best flavor.)
- to taste Salt
- for topping Torreznos (crispy pork belly)(Optional, but traditional. Can be store-bought or homemade. If unavailable, crispy fried pancetta or bacon can be substituted.)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the potatoes: Peel the potatoes, cut them into large, uniform chunks (about 2-3 inches), and place them in a large pot. Cover generously with cold water and add a good pinch of salt. Bring to a rolling boil over high heat.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 2
Boil the potatoes: Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium and simmer uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are very tender and easily pierced with a fork. Drain the potatoes thoroughly in a colander, allowing any excess steam to escape for a minute or two.
⏱️ 25-30 minutes - 3
Mash the potatoes: Return the drained potatoes to the warm pot (off the heat). Add the roughly chopped garlic cloves and about half of the olive oil. Using a potato masher or a sturdy fork, roughly mash the potatoes. Aim for a rustic, slightly lumpy texture, not a smooth purée. The residual heat will soften the garlic.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 4
Incorporate pimentón and oil: Add the pimentón de la Vera and the remaining olive oil to the mashed potatoes. Stir vigorously until the pimentón is well distributed, coating the potatoes in a vibrant red hue. Season generously with salt to taste. Continue mashing gently to combine everything, ensuring the texture remains rustic.
⏱️ 2-3 minutes - 5
Serve: Spoon the patatas revolconas into a serving dish or individual bowls. Top generously with crumbled torreznos (or your chosen crispy pork topping). Serve immediately while warm.
⏱️ 1 minute
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓The key to patatas revolconas is its rustic texture. Avoid over-mashing to maintain some potato chunks.
- ✓Pimentón de la Vera is crucial for the authentic smoky flavor and deep red color. Ensure you use a good quality smoked paprika.
- ✓This dish is best enjoyed fresh. Reheating can alter the texture.
- ✓For an even richer flavor, you can sauté the chopped garlic in a tablespoon of the olive oil before adding it to the potatoes.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add finely chopped, cooked chorizo to the mash along with the pimentón for a spicier, meatier version.
- Increase the amount of pimentón for a more intense flavor and color.
- Serve with a fried egg on top for a more substantial meal.