Salchipapas Recipe (Peruvian Street Food)

If you’re searching for a quick, satisfying, and budget-friendly recipe, Salchipapas might just become your new favorite. This classic Peruvian dish combines crispy French fries and sliced sausages, creating a savory and indulgent comfort meal. 

Whether you're hosting a casual get-together or looking for a fun weeknight dinner idea, Salchipapas is a deliciously simple recipe that anyone can make.

This recipe pairs well with a variety of sauces and sides. Serve it alongside rice and beans to make it a heartier meal. Alternatively, a light salad or coleslaw can help balance the richness of the dish. It’s also perfect with a drizzle of guacamole, spicy aioli, or even chimichurri sauce to bring out the full range of flavors.

What Is Salchipapas?

Salchipapas is a popular street food dish that originated in Peru and has spread across Latin America. The name combines “salchicha,” which means sausage in Spanish, and “papas,” the Spanish word for potatoes. Traditionally, the dish consists of fried slices of sausage served on a bed of crispy French fries.

It’s a dish that’s beloved for its simplicity and versatility. Over time, variations of Salchipapas have evolved, with toppings such as fried eggs, shredded cheese, avocado, or even hot peppers. While it’s commonly eaten as a quick snack or street food, it also makes an excellent party appetizer or family-friendly dinner.

Ingredients To Make This Recipe

The beauty of Salchipapas lies in its simplicity. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a flavorful dish that’s satisfying and fun to eat. Here's what you'll need:

2 Russet potatoes – These are ideal for fries because of their high starch content, which results in crispy, golden fries with a soft interior.

Oil, for frying – Necessary for achieving perfectly golden fries and crispy sausages. Use vegetable or canola oil for best results.

4 sausages – Hot dogs or smoked sausages work best. They add a savory, smoky flavor to the dish.

Ketchup – A classic topping that adds a tangy, sweet flavor.

Mayonnaise – Adds creaminess and richness to balance the dish.

Mustard – Provides a tangy, slightly spicy kick to the flavor.

Aji paste – A traditional Peruvian chili paste that adds heat and bold flavor. You can adjust the amount based on your spice preference.

Salt – Enhances the flavor of the fries and ties the dish together.

How To Make This Easy Peruvian Recipe

This step-by-step guide is perfect for beginners and ensures that your dish will turn out just right.

1. Peel the Russet potatoes and cut them into sticks, about the size of French fries. Make sure the pieces are uniform for even frying.
2. In a large frying pan, heat enough oil over high heat to fully submerge the potato sticks. The oil should be hot enough that it sizzles when you add a fry, around 350°F (175°C).
3. Carefully add the potato sticks to the hot oil in small batches. 
4. Fry for about 8 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy. 
5. Remove the fries with a slotted spoon and transfer them to a paper towel-lined dish to drain excess oil. Immediately sprinkle with salt to taste.
6. While the fries are cooking, heat a tablespoon of oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. 
7. Slice the sausages into rounds and add them to the pan. Stir-fry the sausage slices until they become crispy and browned on the edges, about 5-7 minutes.
8. Place the crispy fries on a large serving platter or individual plates. 
9. Top them with the cooked sausage slices.
10. Drizzle ketchup, mayonnaise, mustard, and aji paste over the top of the fries and sausages. Adjust the quantities of each sauce to your taste preference.
11. Salchipapas are best served fresh and hot, so enjoy them right away with your favorite dipping sauces or toppings on the side.

Tips for Making Salchipapas 

• Cut Potatoes Uniformly: Slice the potatoes evenly to ensure they cook at the same rate and achieve a golden, crispy texture.
  
• Preheat the Oil: Use hot oil to fry the potatoes (around 375°F) for the best crispy results.
  
• Fry in Batches: Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure the fries cook evenly and stay crispy.
  
• Season While Hot: Sprinkle salt on the fries immediately after frying for better flavor absorption.
  
• Choose Flavorful Sausages: Use sausages with a bold flavor, like smoked or spicy, to elevate the dish.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bake the fries instead of frying them?

Yes, you can bake the fries for a healthier version of Salchipapas. Toss the potato strips in a little oil and bake at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. They won’t be as crispy as fried, but they’ll still taste great.

What type of sausage works best for Salchipapas?

Hot dogs are the most traditional choice, but any fully cooked sausage works well. Smoked sausages, chicken sausages, or even veggie sausages are excellent alternatives depending on your preference.

Can I make Salchipapas ahead of time?

Salchipapas are best served fresh for the crispiest fries. However, you can pre-cook the sausages and prepare the fries in advance. Simply reheat them in the oven or a skillet before assembling the dish.

Have you tried making Salchipapas? If so, we’d love to hear your thoughts! Don’t forget to rate and review this recipe. And if you’re looking for more fun and easy dinner ideas, check out some of our other recipes to add variety to your meals. Enjoy!

You might like these popular Hispanic Recipes:

• Chorizo and Potato Soup
• Dulce de Leche Cortada Recipe
• Tortilla de Patatas
• Carne Asada Fries Recipe