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Patatas Bravas Recipe

4.8 from 86 reviews

Patatas Bravas is a classic Spanish tapa featuring crispy fried potatoes served with a smoky, spicy tomato-based bravas sauce and a creamy garlicky alioli. This recipe involves parboiling the potatoes for perfect texture, deep-frying them for a golden crust, and pairing them with two vibrant sauces that balance heat, tanginess, and richness. A delicious and satisfying appetizer or side dish that’s perfect for sharing.

Ingredients

Scale

Potatoes

  • 4 russet potatoes, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 2 tsp kosher salt, plus more for seasoning
  • 3 cups extra-virgin olive oil (for frying)

Alioli

  • 2 large egg yolks
  • 1 clove garlic, finely chopped
  • 1 tsp fresh lime or lemon juice
  • 1/4 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • Kosher salt, to taste

Bravas Sauce

  • 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1/2 tsp Spanish smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp Spanish sweet paprika
  • 1/4 tsp Spanish hot paprika or cayenne pepper
  • 1/2 cup tomato sauce
  • 1/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1/2 tsp sherry vinegar

Instructions

  1. Prepare Potatoes: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the potato cubes and 2 teaspoons of kosher salt. Cook until the potatoes begin to soften but are not fully cooked, about 5 to 8 minutes. Drain the potatoes and spread them out on a baking sheet to cool completely.
  2. Fry Potatoes: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil until a deep-fry or instant-read thermometer registers 360°F (182°C). Fry the potatoes in batches, tossing occasionally, until they turn golden brown and crispy, about 6 to 8 minutes. Transfer the fried potatoes to a paper towel-lined plate and season generously with kosher salt.
  3. Make Alioli: In a bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, finely chopped garlic, fresh lime or lemon juice, and Dijon mustard. Slowly drizzle in 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil while whisking vigorously to emulsify and create a thick, creamy alioli. Season with kosher salt to taste. Keep chilled.
  4. Prepare Bravas Sauce: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Add smoked paprika, sweet paprika, and hot paprika (or cayenne) and stir to combine. Toast the spices, stirring frequently, for about 10 seconds or until fragrant.
  5. Simmer Sauce: Stir in the tomato sauce, low-sodium chicken broth, and sherry vinegar. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook, stirring occasionally, until the sauce reduces slightly and thickens, about 5 minutes.
  6. Serve: Arrange the fried potatoes on a serving platter. Drizzle generously with the warm bravas sauce and spoon over the alioli. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Notes

  • Make sure to dry the potatoes thoroughly after boiling and cooling to ensure a crisp finish when frying.
  • Use fresh quality olive oil for the best flavor in both frying and sauces.
  • The alioli uses raw egg yolks; if you are concerned about food safety, use pasteurized eggs.
  • Adjust the level of heat in the bravas sauce by modifying the amount of hot paprika or cayenne pepper.
  • These potatoes are best served immediately to enjoy their crispiness; leftovers can be reheated but may lose some texture.

Keywords: Patatas Bravas, Spanish tapas, fried potatoes, alioli, bravas sauce, appetizer