Vegan Boricua

Puerto Rican Vegan Loaded Oven Fries with Adobo and Sazón for a Flavorful Twist

·

Sofrito Avatar
Sofrito

Puerto Rican Vegan Loaded Oven Fries: A Flavorful Twist on a Classic

When it comes to combining the vibrant flavors of Puerto Rican cuisine with the comfort of loaded oven fries, the result is nothing short of magical. Here’s a recipe that brings together the essence of Puerto Rico’s iconic spice blends and the satisfaction of a delicious, vegan side dish.

The Cultural Significance

Puerto Rican cuisine is a rich tapestry of flavors, influenced by the island’s indigenous Taíno people, Spanish colonizers, and African traditions. The trio of Adobo, Sazón, and Sofrito forms the backbone of this culinary heritage, and we’re going to use these blends to give our loaded oven fries an authentic Puerto Rican twist.

Ingredients

For the Fries:

  • 2 large Russet potatoes
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons Puerto Rican Adobo (see below for recipe)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt to taste

For the Toppings:

  • Vegan “Pernil”: Use marinated and baked tofu or tempeh, or TVP (textured vegetable protein), which is easily available and affordable in Puerto Rico. Marinate it with a mix of Adobo, garlic, and a splash of vinegar for added depth.
  • Vegan Picadillo: A traditional Puerto Rican ground beef dish, now veganized with sautéed onions, garlic, bell peppers, and tomatoes, seasoned with Sazón and Adobo.
  • Vegan Cheese Sauce: A cashew-based cheese sauce or a dairy-free alternative.
  • Additional Toppings: Chopped cilantro, green onions, vegan sour cream, guacamole, jalapeños, and grilled onions.

Puerto Rican Adobo Recipe

  • 2 tablespoons garlic powder
  • 2 tablespoons onion powder
  • 1 tablespoon dried oregano
  • 1 tablespoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)

Combine all ingredients in a bowl and store in an airtight container for up to 6 months.

Instructions

Preparing the Fries:

  1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Cut the Potatoes: Peel the potatoes if desired, and cut them into long French fry shapes.
  3. Soak the Potatoes: Place the cut potatoes in a large bowl filled with cold water and let them soak for at least 20 minutes to release excess starch.
  4. Dry and Season: Drain and rinse the potatoes, then pat them dry with a paper towel. In a large bowl, toss the potatoes with olive oil, Adobo, and garlic powder until they are well coated.
  5. Bake the Fries: Spread the potatoes out in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15 minutes, then flip the fries and continue baking for another 20 minutes, or until they are golden and crispy.

Preparing the Toppings:

  1. Vegan “Pernil”: Marinate the tofu, tempeh, or TVP in a mixture of Adobo, garlic, and a splash of vinegar. Bake or grill until cooked through.
  2. Vegan Picadillo: Sauté onions, garlic, bell peppers, and tomatoes. Season with Sazón and Adobo. Add beans if you prefer a heartier option.
  3. Vegan Cheese Sauce: Prepare a cashew-based cheese sauce or use a dairy-free alternative.

Assembling the Loaded Fries:

  1. Layer the Fries: Once the fries are done, layer them on a parchment-lined baking tray.
  2. Add the Toppings: Top the fries with the vegan “Pernil,” Picadillo, and a generous drizzle of the vegan cheese sauce.
  3. Bake Again: Bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melty and the toppings are heated through.
  4. Final Touches: Remove from the oven and add additional toppings such as chopped cilantro, green onions, vegan sour cream, guacamole, jalapeños, and grilled onions.

Serving and Enjoying

These Puerto Rican Vegan Loaded Oven Fries are a perfect blend of flavors and textures that will satisfy any craving. The Adobo and Sazón add a deep, savory flavor, while the Sofrito-inspired Picadillo brings a fresh and aromatic note. This dish is not only delicious but also a celebration of Puerto Rican culinary traditions.

Tips and Variations

  • For an extra crispy texture, ensure the potatoes are dry before baking.
  • Use sweet potato fries as an alternative for a different flavor profile.
  • Experiment with different toppings to make the dish your own.
  • Always add a splash of vinegar to savory dishes to balance the flavors and enhance the health benefits.

Enjoy your delicious Puerto Rican Vegan Loaded Oven Fries, a dish that combines the heart of Puerto Rican cuisine with the comfort of a loaded fry. This recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen

  1. Vegan Boricua Pantry Essentials

Latest recipes