Papas Recipe

Prepare potatoes

Wash and peel the russet potatoes if desired. Cut into 1/2-inch cubes so they cook evenly.

Par-cook potatoes

Bring a medium pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cubed potatoes and cook for 6 minutes until just tender but not falling apart. Drain thoroughly and let steam-dry for 2–3 minutes.

Crisp potatoes

Heat 2 tbs vegetable oil and 1 tbs butter in a large nonstick or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the drained potatoes in a single layer (work in batches if necessary). Let cook undisturbed for 4–5 minutes to develop a crust, then stir and continue to cook 6–8 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden and cooked through. Season with 1 tsp salt and 1 tsp black pepper. Reduce heat to low and keep warm in the pan.

Cook eggs

In a separate nonstick skillet, add a small pat of butter or 1 tsp oil and heat over medium. Crack 4 large eggs and fry to desired doneness: 2–3 minutes for runny yolks (sunny-side up) or 5–6 minutes flipped for over-easy/medium. Season eggs lightly with a pinch of salt and black pepper. Keep warm.

Finish and garnish

Divide the crispy potatoes onto 4 plates (or family-style). Top each portion with a cooked egg. Sprinkle chopped cilantro and sliced green onions over the potatoes and eggs.

While potatoes cook, finely dice the roma tomatoes and the 1/4 of a small white onion. Mince the half jalapeño (remove seeds for milder heat). Combine tomatoes, onion, jalapeño, 1 tbs lime juice, 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper in a small bowl. Taste and adjust salt or lime. Let sit at room temperature for at least 10 minutes so flavors meld.

In a small saucepan over low heat, whisk together 1/2 cup whole milk and 1 tsp cornstarch until smooth. Warm gently until steaming (do not boil). Gradually add 1 1/2 cups shredded queso amarillo or processed cheddar, stirring constantly until melted and smooth. If sauce is too thick, add additional milk 1 tbs at a time to reach desired consistency. Stir in 1/4 tsp ground cumin and 1 tsp hot sauce if using. Keep sauce warm on the lowest heat or transfer to a small insulated container.