Patatas Bravas Recipe of Spain | Crispy Potatoes with Spicy Brava Sauce

Patatas Bravas is one of Spain's most beloved and iconic tapas dishes, celebrated for its bold flavors and rustic charm. Literally meaning “fierce potatoes,” this dish gets its name from the spicy brava sauce that coats the crispy, golden-fried potato cubes. Originating in Madrid, Patatas Bravas quickly spread across the country and became a staple in tapas bars, often enjoyed with a cold drink and good company.

The beauty of Patatas Bravas lies in its simplicity—crispy potatoes paired with a spicy, smoky tomato-based sauce and sometimes complemented by a creamy aioli. Though recipes may vary slightly from region to region, the essence remains the same: a perfect balance of crunch, heat, and rich flavor. Here is a recipe of Patatas Bravas of Spain. 

You can also read another Spanish recipe :

Authentic Spanish Paella Recipe | Spanish Paella Recipe With Chicken And Prawn

Ingredients of Patatas Bravas

For the Potatoes:

• Potatoes – 4 medium-sized (about 600–700g)
• Salt – to taste
• Olive oil – for deep frying or roasting
• Water – for boiling

For the Brava Sauce (Spicy Tomato Sauce):

• Olive oil – 3 tablespoons
• Onion – 1 small, finely chopped
• Garlic – 3 cloves, minced
• Smoked paprika – 1 teaspoon
• Hot paprika or chili powder – ½ teaspoon (adjust to taste)
• Tomato puree or crushed tomatoes – 1 cup (about 250 ml)
• Sugar – ½ teaspoon
• Red wine vinegar – 1 tablespoon
• Salt – to taste
• Black pepper – ½ teaspoon

Optional (For Garlic Aioli):

• Mayonnaise – ½ cup
• Garlic – 1 clove, minced
• Lemon juice – 1 teaspoon

Making Process of Patatas Bravas 

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

1. First peel the potatoes and cut them into cubes of 1-inch .

2. Boil the potato cubes in salted water for about 5–6 minutes until just tender (not too soft).

3. Drain the potatoes and let them cool and dry for a few minutes.

4. Take a deep pan or fryer and heat olive oil in it. Once the oil is hot, fry the potatoes in batches until golden and crispy. This takes around 6–8 minutes per batch.

5. Remove the fried potatoes and drain them on paper towels. Sprinkle with a little salt.

Alternative: You can also roast the potatoes in a preheated oven at 220°C (425°F) for 30–35 minutes, flipping once midway.

Step 2: Make the Brava Sauce

1. Take a saucepan and heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat in it.

2. Add chopped onion and sauté until the onions become soft and translucent (about 5 minutes).

3. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 1–2 minutes.

4. Add smoked paprika, hot paprika (or chili powder), and stir for 30 seconds.

5. Pour in the tomato puree, sugar, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper.

6. Simmer the sauce over low heat for 10–15 minutes until thickened. Stir occasionally.

7. For a smooth texture, blend the sauce using a hand blender or regular blender. Let it cool slightly before serving.

Optional Step: Garlic Aioli (for serving)

1. In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, minced garlic, and lemon juice.

2. Stir until creamy and smooth. Chill until ready to use.

Serving Patatas Bravas

1. Place the crispy potatoes on a serving plate.

2. Spoon generous amounts of brava sauce over the potatoes.

3. Optionally, drizzle with garlic aioli for a creamy contrast.

4. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

5. Serve hot as a tapas dish or appetizer.

Enjoy the bold, spicy, and comforting flavors of authentic Spanish Patatas Bravas!

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Here are some Frequently ASked Questions (FAQ) about Spanish Patatas Bravas

FAQ 1 : What makes Patatas Bravas different from regular fried potatoes?

Patatas Bravas are not just simple fried potatoes—they are traditionally served with a bold, spicy tomato-based sauce known as "brava sauce." The combination of crispy, golden-brown potato cubes and the smoky, tangy, and slightly hot sauce is what gives the dish its signature flavor and makes it a classic Spanish tapa.

FAQ 2 : Can Patatas Bravas be made less spicy for kids or those sensitive to heat?

Yes, the spice level of the brava sauce can easily be adjusted. You can reduce or omit the hot paprika or chili powder and still retain a delicious smoky flavor by using only sweet smoked paprika. This makes the dish more suitable for children or those who prefer milder flavors.

FAQ 3 : Is Patatas Bravas served as a main dish or a side?

Patatas Bravas is traditionally served as a tapas dish, which means it is usually enjoyed as a snack or appetizer, often shared with others. However, it can also be served as a side dish with grilled meats or eggs, or as part of a larger meal in a tapas spread.