The term "mojos" can refer to two very different culinary items, each with a distinct calorie profile: the beloved fried potato slices from Shakey's Pizza Parlor and a tangy, oil-based sauce prominent in Cuban and Canary Islands cuisine. When asking how many calories are in mojos, it is crucial to clarify which one you mean, as the answer ranges dramatically.
Shakey's Mojo Potatoes: Calorie Breakdown
Shakey's Mojo Potatoes are crispy, breaded, and fried potato slices. The high-fat cooking process significantly increases their caloric density. Portion size is the biggest factor determining the total calories consumed.
According to nutritional data from sources like CalorieKing, a small serving (approximately 5 pieces or 4 ounces) contains about 216 calories. For larger servings, the calories multiply accordingly. A medium (1/2 pound) order contains 432 calories, while a large (1 pound) order of Shakey's Mojos contains around 863 calories.
Nutritional profile of Shakey's Mojos (Small Serving)
- Total Fat: 11.5 g (48% of calories)
- Total Carbohydrates: 25.5 g (47% of calories)
- Protein: 2.5 g (5% of calories)
- Sodium: 547 mg
These numbers reveal that nearly half the calories come from fat, a common characteristic of deep-fried foods. The significant sodium content also contributes to overall nutritional considerations.
Mojo Sauce: Calorie Breakdown
In contrast to the potato dish, mojo sauce is a light, flavor-packed condiment. There are various recipes, but traditional Cuban mojo is typically made with olive oil, garlic, and citrus juice, while Canarian versions might include different peppers. The calorie content is much lower and primarily comes from the olive oil.
Nutritional profile of Cuban Mojo Sauce (approx. 1 serving)
- Calories: ~80 kcal
- Total Fat: 8 g
- Total Carbohydrates: 4 g
- Protein: 1 g
- Sodium: 50 mg
It is clear that a serving of mojo sauce has a fraction of the calories found in even a small order of fried mojo potatoes. The calories are still predominantly from fat, but the portion sizes are much smaller.
Comparison Table: Mojo Potatoes vs. Mojo Sauce
| Feature | Shakey's Mojo Potatoes (Small, 4 oz) | Cuban Mojo Sauce (1 serving) |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | ~216 kcal | ~80 kcal |
| Main Calorie Source | Oil from deep-frying and carbohydrates | Olive oil |
| Primary Ingredients | Potatoes, breading, seasoning, oil | Olive oil, garlic, citrus juice |
| Serving Size | 5 pieces | ~31g |
| Macronutrient Breakdown | High fat and carbs | Primarily fat |
| Use Case | Appetizer or side dish | Condiment, marinade, or dip |
Factors Influencing Mojo Calories
Several factors can alter the calorie count of mojos, especially when preparing a homemade version:
- Cooking Method: Frying potatoes in oil adds a significant amount of fat and calories. Baking or air-frying the potatoes can drastically reduce this. For homemade potato mojos, using an air fryer instead of deep-frying can make a huge difference in the final calorie count.
- Oil Type: The type of oil used can affect the fat profile, though not the calorie count, as all fats have roughly 9 calories per gram. However, healthier oils like extra virgin olive oil offer different nutritional benefits compared to vegetable oil used in commercial frying.
- Recipe Variations: For mojo sauce, using less olive oil or substituting some of the oil with broth can lower the calorie count. For potato mojos, altering the breading or seasoning can affect overall calories and sodium. For instance, using a lighter breading or less salt can be beneficial.
- Serving Size: The most obvious factor is portion control. As shown by the Shakey's data, a small serving is manageable, while a large portion is very calorie-dense.
- Additives and Dips: Mojos are often served with dipping sauces, such as cheese sauce or ranch. The calories from these dips can quickly add up, so it is important to factor them in. For example, a single tablespoon of ranch dressing can add around 60-80 calories.
Conclusion: A Tale of Two Mojos
The question of how many calories are in mojos has no single answer because the term applies to two fundamentally different foods. Fried potato mojos, popularized by Shakey's, are a high-calorie, high-fat appetizer, with a small serving containing over 200 calories and a large one well over 800. In contrast, traditional mojo sauce is a much lower-calorie condiment, often used to add flavor to other dishes. Understanding this distinction is key to making informed dietary choices. When you order or prepare mojos, be mindful of the type and portion size, as they are the primary determinants of the total caloric load.
For more detailed nutritional information on restaurant items like Shakey's Mojos, you can consult online databases like this one: Shakey's Mojo Potatoes Nutrition Facts.
