Patatas Bravas: A Spanish Delight

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Patatas Bravas is a beloved Spanish tapas dish that combines crispy potatoes with a rich, spicy tomato sauce. Known for its bold flavor and satisfying texture, this dish is perfect as a side, snack, or party appetizer. Each bite delivers a delightful crunch, followed by a savory kick from the paprika-spiced sauce. Whether you’re hosting a tapas night or looking for a flavorful addition to your dinner spread, Patatas Bravas never fails to impress.

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity — golden, crispy potatoes coated in a smoky seasoning blend, then topped with a vibrant, slightly tangy sauce. The sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a refreshing finish, making each forkful irresistible. With just a few pantry staples and some seasoning magic, you can create a dish that’s bursting with Spanish charm.

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Ingredients for Patatas Bravas

For the Potatoes:

• 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional for added spice)
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Bravas Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for heat preference)
• 1 cup canned diced tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Garnish:

• Fresh parsley, finely chopped

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Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Peel and dice the potatoes into bite-sized cubes. Rinse them in cold water to remove excess starch, then pat them dry thoroughly with a clean towel.

Heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the diced potatoes, spreading them evenly in the pan. Cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become golden and crispy on all sides.

Once cooked, season the potatoes with smoked paprika, garlic powder, chili powder (if desired), salt, and pepper. Toss well to ensure the seasoning coats each piece. Remove from heat and set aside.

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Step 2: Make the Bravas Sauce

In a separate pan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for 4-5 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Add the smoked paprika and cayenne pepper, stirring constantly for about 30 seconds to release their aroma. Pour in the diced tomatoes and add sugar to balance the acidity. Season with salt and pepper, then let the sauce simmer for 10-12 minutes until it thickens.

For a smoother texture, blend the sauce with an immersion blender or regular blender until silky.

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Step 3: Combine and Serve

Transfer the crispy potatoes to a serving dish and generously spoon the warm bravas sauce over the top. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a vibrant touch.

Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor — perfect as a snack, side, or appetizer!

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Storage Instructions

Patatas Bravas is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers for later. Keep the potatoes and sauce separate to maintain their texture.

• Potatoes: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a skillet or oven to restore their crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it may make them soggy.
• Bravas Sauce: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.

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Estimated Nutrition

Per serving (based on 4 servings):

• Calories: ~300 kcal
• Carbohydrates: ~40g
• Protein: ~5g
• Fat: ~15g
• Fiber: ~5g
• Sodium: ~450mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make Patatas Bravas in an air fryer?

Yes! Toss the diced potatoes in olive oil and seasoning, then cook in the air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, shaking halfway through.

2. Is Patatas Bravas spicy?

Traditionally, the bravas sauce has a mild kick from smoked paprika and cayenne pepper. You can adjust the spice level to suit your taste.

3. Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?

Absolutely! Sweet potatoes add a unique sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the smoky bravas sauce.

4. What’s the best way to reheat Patatas Bravas?

For crispy potatoes, reheat them in a skillet or oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes. The sauce can be warmed separately on the stove.

5. Can I prepare Patatas Bravas ahead of time?

Yes! Cook the potatoes and sauce separately, then combine just before serving for the best results.

6. What can I serve with Patatas Bravas?

It’s perfect alongside other tapas dishes like chorizo, garlic shrimp, or Spanish tortilla.

7. Can I make the sauce less tangy?

If the sauce feels too acidic, add a pinch of sugar or a splash of cream to balance the flavor.

8. Is Patatas Bravas gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure all your seasonings and canned tomatoes are labeled gluten-free.

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