Authentic Colombian Papa Turmada: Creamy Potato Heaven

Ingredients
  • 1 kg
    Yellow potatoes
  • 500 ml
    whole milk
  • 1 medium
    White onion
  • 200 g
    Fresh cheese (queso fresco)
  • 3 pieces
    garlic cloves
  • 3 stalks
    green onions
  • 1 tsp
    Salt
  • 1/2 tsp
    Ground black pepper
Directions
  • Prepare the potatoes

    Peel and cut the potatoes into medium-sized chunks (about 2-inch pieces). Uniform size ensures even cooking.

  • Initial cooking

    Place potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add 1/2 tsp salt. Bring to a boil and cook until just tender when pierced with a fork.

  • Prepare aromatics

    While potatoes cook, finely dice the white onion and mince the garlic. Slice green onions thinly, separating white and green parts.

  • Start the sauce

    In a large saucepan, heat milk over medium heat. Add diced onion, garlic, and white parts of green onions. Don't let milk boil.

  • Combine ingredients

    Drain potatoes and add them to the warm milk mixture. Add crumbled cheese, remaining salt, and pepper. Stir gently to avoid breaking potatoes.

  • Final cooking

    Simmer on low heat until sauce thickens slightly and cheese melts. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

  • Finish and serve

    Garnish with reserved green onion tops. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow sauce to thicken further.

Nutritions
  • Calories:
    385 kcal
  • Protein:
    14 g
  • Total Fat:
    12 g
  • Saturated Fat:
    7 g
  • Unsaturated Fat:
    5 g
  • Total Carbs:
    58 g
  • Sugar:
    6 g
  • Fiber:
    4 g
  • Sodium:
    520 mg

Discover the heartwarming comfort of Papa Turmada, a beloved Colombian potato dish that has graced family tables for generations. This traditional recipe transforms simple potatoes into a creamy, indulgent masterpiece that perfectly exemplifies Colombian home cooking. Papa Turmada originated in the Andean regions of Colombia, where potatoes have been cultivated for thousands of years.

The dish features tender potato chunks swimming in a rich sauce made from milk, cheese, and aromatics, creating a perfect balance of textures and flavors. The combination of melted cheese and creamy sauce creates an irresistibly velvety consistency that clings to each potato piece. This dish is particularly popular during cold mountain evenings and family gatherings, offering both comfort and sustenance.

Whether served as a filling side dish or a vegetarian main course, Papa Turmada showcases the beautiful simplicity of Colombian cuisine while delivering maximum flavor and satisfaction.