Ingredients:
4 large potatoes
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Vegetable oil, for frying
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Prep the Potatoes: Begin by washing and scrubbing the potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt. Peel the potatoes if desired, though leaving the skins on adds extra flavor and texture. Slice the potatoes into rounds, about 1/4 inch thick.
Prepare the Seasoning: In a bowl, mix together the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper until well combined. This blend of spices is crucial for achieving that signature Shakey’s mojo flavor.
Coat the Potatoes: Toss the potato slices in the seasoned flour mixture until they are evenly coated. Shake off any excess flour.
Heat the Oil: In a deep fryer or large pot, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). You want enough oil to fully submerge the potato slices.
Fry the Mojos: Carefully place the coated potato slices into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the fryer. Fry in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking. Fry the mojos for 4-5 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
Drain and Serve: Once the mojos are cooked to perfection, use a slotted spoon to remove them from the oil and transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Serve hot and enjoy with your favorite dipping sauces.
Shakey’s Signature Flavor:
The secret to Shakey’s irresistible mojos lies in their unique blend of spices and seasonings. To recreate this iconic flavor at home, use the following exact measurements or ratios:
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Adjust the seasoning to your personal taste preferences, adding more or less of each spice as desired.
Cooking Methods:
While deep-frying is the traditional method for cooking mojos, there are alternative options available for those looking to cut back on oil or try a different cooking technique:
Baking: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the seasoned potato slices on a greased baking sheet in a single layer, making sure they are not touching. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the mojos are crispy and golden brown.
Air-frying: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the seasoned potato slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the mojos are crispy and golden brown.
Tips and Variations:
Use the right type of potatoes: Russet potatoes are ideal for making mojos due to their high starch content, which helps achieve a crispy exterior.
Experiment with additional spices: Feel free to customize the seasoning blend to your taste preferences by adding spices such as cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, or Italian seasoning.
Try different dipping sauces: While mojos are delicious on their own, they pair perfectly with a variety of dipping sauces such as ranch dressing, barbecue sauce, or honey mustard.
Conclusion
By following these step-by-step instructions and tips, you can easily recreate the irresistible flavor and crispy texture of Shakey’s mojos in the comfort of your own kitchen. Whether you’re serving them as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, these homemade mojos are sure to be a hit with family and friends.
FAQs
What are Shakey’s mojos made of?
Shakey’s mojos are made from sliced potatoes that are seasoned, breaded, and then deep-fried until golden brown and crispy. The seasoning typically includes a blend of herbs and spices, giving them their signature flavor.
What is a good substitute for new potatoes?
A good substitute for new potatoes would be fingerling potatoes or small Yukon Gold potatoes. These varieties have a similar creamy texture and thin skin, making them suitable replacements in recipes that call for new potatoes.
What is mojos?
Mojos are a popular appetizer or side dish made from sliced potatoes that are seasoned, breaded, and fried until crispy. They are often served with dipping sauces and are a favorite in many restaurants and fast-food chains, with Shakey’s being particularly famous for their version.