Description
Patatas bravas are a traditional Spanish tapas dish that features crispy golden fried potatoes served with a smoky, mildly spicy tomato-based bravas sauce. This simple yet flavorful recipe includes a double-frying technique to achieve the perfect crispness and a rich sauce blending smoked paprika, cayenne, and sherry vinegar. Ideal for sharing as an appetizer or snack, patatas bravas are a beloved classic in Spanish cuisine.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 2 lbs Yukon Gold or russet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tsp salt, plus more to taste
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Bravas Sauce
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 cup crushed tomatoes
- 1 tbsp sherry vinegar
- 1/2 tsp sugar
- 1/4 cup water
Instructions
- Parboil Potatoes: Place the peeled and cubed potatoes in a large pot, cover with cold salted water, and bring to a boil. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes until the potatoes are slightly tender but not fully cooked through. Drain and let them steam dry for several minutes to remove excess moisture.
- First Fry: Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry the potatoes in batches for about 5 to 6 minutes until they turn lightly golden. Remove and drain on paper towels, then set aside while preparing the sauce.
- Prepare Bravas Sauce: Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 4 to 5 minutes until soft and translucent. Stir in minced garlic, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and tomato paste; cook for 30 seconds to release flavors. Add crushed tomatoes, sherry vinegar, sugar, and water. Simmer gently for 10 to 12 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Blend Sauce: Use an immersion blender or standard blender to puree the sauce until smooth. Season with salt to taste and keep warm.
- Second Fry: Increase the oil temperature to 375°F (190°C). Fry the potatoes again in batches for 2 to 3 minutes until they develop a deep golden color and are crispy on the outside. Drain on paper towels and season immediately with salt.
- Serve: Arrange the crispy potatoes on a serving plate and drizzle generously with the warm bravas sauce. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Double-frying is key to achieving the signature crispy exterior while keeping the potatoes soft inside.
- Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper in the sauce to suit your preferred spice level.
- For a creamy twist, serve patatas bravas alongside garlic aioli or your favorite dipping sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizer / Tapas
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Spanish
