These aren’t just any fried potatoes; they’re crispy, golden-brown cubes of deliciousness, smothered in a smoky, spicy brava sauce and often accompanied by a creamy aioli. Patatas Bravas are a staple in tapas bars across Spain, and for good reason. They’re the perfect combination of simple ingredients transformed into something truly special.
Patatas Bravas: Two Delicious Ways
Recipe 1: Traditional Patatas Bravas
This recipe offers the classic Patatas Bravas experience, featuring a homemade Brava sauce with a smoky kick.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed (about 1-inch)
- Olive oil, for frying
- Salt, to taste
- Bravassauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (pimentón de la Vera)
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more, to taste)
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Aioli (optional):
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Prep & Cook Time:
Prep: 20 minutes
Cook: 30 minutes
Servings:
4-6
Instructions:
- Prepare the Brava sauce: Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper and cook for 1 minute more, stirring constantly.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. You can blend the sauce for a smoother texture if desired.
- While the sauce simmers, prepare the potatoes: Heat about 1/2 inch of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Fry the potatoes in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan, until golden brown and crispy, about 8-10 minutes per batch. Remove the potatoes with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Season with salt immediately.
- Assemble the Patatas Bravas: Arrange the fried potatoes on a serving plate. Spoon the Brava sauce generously over the potatoes.
- If using, drizzle with aioli. Serve immediately.
Tips & Variations:
- For a spicier Brava sauce, add more cayenne pepper or a pinch of dried chili flakes.
- Roast the potatoes instead of frying for a healthier option. Toss the cubed potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper and roast at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
Nutritional Info (Approximate):
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 20g
- Carbs: 40g
- Protein: 5g
Recipe 2: Quick & Easy Patatas Bravas
This recipe utilizes store-bought ingredients for a speedy weeknight version, perfect when you’re short on time but craving that Patatas Bravas flavor.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs frozen cubed potatoes (oven-ready)
- Olive oil spray
- Salt, to taste
- Prepared Bravasauce (store-bought)
- Prepared Aioli (store-bought)
- Smoked paprika, for garnish
Prep & Cook Time:
Prep: 5 minutes
Cook: 25 minutes
Servings:
4-6
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven according to the package directions for the frozen potatoes (usually around 400°F / 200°C).
- Spread the frozen potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet. Lightly spray with olive oil spray and season with salt.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway through.
- Arrange the baked potatoes on a serving plate. Spoon the prepared Brava sauce generously over the potatoes.
- Drizzle with prepared aioli. Sprinkle with smoked paprika for garnish. Serve immediately.
Tips & Variations:
- If you prefer to fry the potatoes, you can cook the frozen potatoes according to the package directions for frying instead of baking.
- Add a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley for added freshness.
Nutritional Info (Approximate – will vary depending on brands used):
- Calories: 300
- Fat: 15g
- Carbs: 35g
- Protein: 4g