Patatas bravas

Patatas bravas

Patatas bravas are a beloved Spanish tapas dish featuring crispy roasted potatoes topped with a spicy, flavorful tomato sauce. This simple yet vibrant recipe delivers a delightful balance of textures and tastes that will brighten any meal.

Vegetarian

Prep Time

15 min

Cook Time

60 min

Servings

4

Patatas bravas is a classic Spanish dish, often enjoyed as a popular tapa in bars and restaurants across Spain. The name translates to "fierce potatoes," referring to the bold, spicy tomato sauce that covers the golden, crispy potatoes. This dish combines comfort and zest, making it a favorite for sharing with friends or as a flavorful side dish. The tomato sauce in this recipe is richly infused with sweet paprika and a touch of chili, lending a warm and slightly smoky heat that complements the creamy interior of the roasted potatoes. The sauce can be prepared ahead of time and even chilled, allowing the flavors to meld and deepen, which makes it convenient for entertaining. Patatas bravas pairs wonderfully with cold drinks, especially a crisp Spanish white wine or a refreshing beer. For a complete Spanish-inspired meal, serve alongside other tapas like olives, chorizo, or manchego cheese. The fresh parsley garnish adds a lovely herby brightness that lifts the dish beautifully.

Ingredients

  • 3 tablespoon Olive Oil
  • 1 small finely diced Onion
  • 2 cloves chopped Garlic
  • 225 g Tinned Tomatos
  • 1 tablespoon Tomato Puree
  • 2 teaspoon Paprika
  • Pinch Chilli Powder
  • Pinch Sugar
  • Chopped Parsley
  • 900 g Potatoes
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil

Instructions

Step 1 Begin by warming 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion and gently sauté for about 5 minutes until it becomes tender and translucent, releasing its sweet aroma. Stir in the chopped garlic, then add the tinned tomatoes, tomato purée, sweet paprika, chilli powder, a pinch of sugar, and a dash of salt. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally to combine the flavors. Reduce the heat and let the sauce simmer uncovered for about 10 minutes, allowing it to thicken and become pulpy. For even better flavor, this sauce can be prepared up to 24 hours ahead and kept chilled. Step 2 Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan oven or gas mark 6). Thoroughly pat the potatoes dry with kitchen paper to remove moisture—this step is key for achieving a crisp exterior. Place the potatoes into a roasting tin, drizzle with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and season lightly with salt and pepper. Toss the potatoes so every piece is evenly coated with oil and seasoning. Roast in the oven for 40 to 50 minutes, turning them halfway through to ensure an even golden-brown crust. Once the potatoes are beautifully crisp and golden, transfer them to serving dishes. Generously spoon the spicy tomato sauce over the potatoes, letting the heat soak in. Finally, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a burst of fresh color and flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy this classic Spanish treat at its best.

Quick Info

Prep Time
15 min
Cook Time
60 min
Total Time
75 min
Servings
4

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