Introduction to Patatas Bravas
Imagine the sound of crispy potatoes being pulled from hot oil, wafting vibrant, spicy aromas through the air. Welcome to the world of patatas bravas—the ultimate Spanish tapa. These crispy fried potatoes are typically topped with a smoky, spicy salsa brava and often paired with a delectable creamy garlic aioli. In Spanish, ‘bravas’ translates to ‘fierce’ or ‘brave,’ a nod to the bold spicy kick of the sauce. The true magic of patatas bravas lies in the delightful combination of crunchy and creamy textures, making this dish truly irresistible and perfect for sharing!
Key Recipe Highlights
- Cuisine: Spanish
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Servings: 4-6 as a tapa
- Dietary Note: Vegetarian, vegan option available
Impress your friends at your next party! Pin this recipe to your appetizers board to create the perfect Spanish tapas spread.
Ingredients for Patatas Bravas
For the Potatoes:
2 lbs Yukon gold or russet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
Olive oil or neutral oil for frying
Salt, to taste
For the Salsa Brava:
2 tbsp olive oil
1/2 yellow onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 (14.5 oz) can crushed tomatoes
1 tbsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust for heat)
1 tsp white vinegar
1/2 tsp sugar
Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Garlic Aioli (optional):
1/2 cup mayonnaise
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp olive oil
Salt, to taste
Step-by-Step Method
- Prepare the Potatoes: Peel and cube the potatoes, soak in cold water for 15-20 minutes to remove excess starch, then drain and pat dry for crispy results.
- Fry Potatoes: Par-cook the potatoes at 300°F for 5-6 minutes, then fry again at 375°F for 2-3 minutes until golden.
- Make Salsa Brava: Sauté onion and garlic, add spices and tomatoes, then simmer until thickened.
- Plate and Serve: Place the crispy potatoes on a platter, drizzle with salsa brava and finish with garlic aioli.
Chef’s Pro Tips
Double-fry your potatoes for the perfect crispy texture. Adjust the cayenne pepper for your desired heat level. Enjoy making this delicious dish!
FAQs
Can I bake the potatoes instead of frying? Yes, just toss in oil and bake at 425°F for 30-40 mins, although it won’t be as crispy. How do I make this vegan? Use vegan mayonnaise for the aioli, or omit it entirely.