Patatas bravas is one of the most popular tapas from Spain. This simple yet delicious tapa is traditionally made with fried potatoes and secret spicy sauce there are as many patatas bravas recipes as there are tapas bars in Spain. We grew up in Spain and ate this beautiful dish many times over the years, so our patatas bravas recipe is a part of who we are and the food that we love.
If you've been following us for a while, you already know that we grew up in Barcelona and we've been living in the US for many years now. We have enjoyed our fair share of tapas, but our favorite, without a doubt, is patatas bravas. It's such an important part of our childhood and family life; it is one of the first recipes we posted on this blog back in 2012. As one of our most popular posts, this deserved new pictures and an update.
What are Patatas Bravas?
This traditional Spanish dish originates in Madrid. It is made of potatoes fried in oil with a spicy sauce. The sauce could be served warm or cold. In the US you may see this dish called Papas Bravas or Patatas a la Brava.
What is Bravas Sauce?
You know that awesome spicy sauce they pour all over those crispy fried potato chunks to make patatas bravas? Well, it's called Bravas sauce, and it's the star of the show! But here's the thing, chefs can't seem to agree on its perfect recipe. Some swear by using tomatoes to make the perfect spicy tomato sauce, while others are all about that gorgeous red color from sweet paprika and spicy Pimenton de la Vera, a smokin' hot paprika from Spain. So, next time you dig into some patatas bravas, just know there's a spicy sauce debate going on behind the scenes!
The recipe for Salsa Brava made with tomato may look something like this:
- Saute garlic and onion in olive oil in a skillet on medium heat
- Add flour
- Add tomato paste, crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce
- Add a dry spicy chile such as cayenne pepper
- Add broth (usually meat-based, such as chicken broth or beef broth).
- Add sweet and smoked paprika
- Add a splash of sherry vinegar
Since there's no single bravas sauce recipe that all Spaniards can nod in agreement to, we decided to create our own twist. We mixed up mayonnaise, two kinds of paprika, and a hot sauce that you can adjust to your spicy preference. Our sauce brings a fresh twist to the classic while maintaining that fantastic flavor you crave. So, get ready to dip those patatas bravas and experience a whole new level of yum!
Ingredients for Patatas Bravas
- Medium Potatoes. Preferably Yukon gold potatoes. White potatoes can also be used.
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil. This adds flavor to the potatoes, so don't skip it.
- Vegan Mayonnaise. Use regular mayo if preferred.
- Hot Sauce.
- Sweet Paprika.
- Smoked Paprika or Pimenton de la Vera (if you can find it). You can choose hot or not hot. Gives the sauce a little kick.
- Garlic Powder.
- Water.
How to Make Patatas Bravas
- Start with some chopped potatoes.
2. Combine the potatoes in a bowl with olive oil and salt and toss well until evenly coated.
3. Spread on a single layer on a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake until tender and lightly golden.
5. Make the sauce following the steps below. Pour the sauce over the warm, cooked potatoes. This is a classic patatas bravas recipe your family will love.
The Best Patatas Bravas in Madrid
You will experience the best patatas bravas in Madrid in the tapas bar Docamar. Their sauce recipe is of course a secret, but they sell their sauce bottled, so you can enjoy patas bravas at home. This spot is so popular they had to rent extra space just to peel and cut potatoes their demand for Patatas Bravas is that high!
Tapas Bar Docamar makes their bravas sauce (salsa brave) following the classic tradition of Madrid using smoked paprika, onions, flour and vinegar.
The Best Patatas Bravas in Barcelona
You will experience the best patatas bravas in Barcelona in the tapas bar El Tomás De Sarría. Their approach to the bravas sauce is very different. They make a creamy garlic aioli and a spicy oil made with paprika and dried spicy peppers. Patatas bravas are served with aioli and spicy oil on top.
Changes we made to the traditional Patatas Bravas recipe:
- We roasted the potatoes instead of frying them. This is done on a sheet pan in the oven.
- We started with a vegan mayo base, a quick tip to achieve instant creaminess.
- Added a pinch of garlic powder for extra flavor to emulate the aioli, but not as assertive.
- We Used Hot sauce to taste for spice and tanginess.
- We used a combination of sweet paprika and spicy smokey paprika
Tips for the Best Spanish Fried Potatoes
This patatas bravas recipe is super simple, flavorful, and satisfying. It's an appetizer or Spanish tapas that everyone loves. Another great thing about it? You can take the basic recipe and modify it however you like it.
- Cut the potatoes into chunks.
- Use regular mayo, if you prefer, or make your own aioli.
- Make it your own, add more hot sauce if you like it really spicy.
- Fry the potatoes instead of baking them for extra crunch and drain any excess oil in paper towels
How to Serve Patatas Bravas: with any of these other Spanish tapas.
- Gazpacho,
- Pan con tomate,
- Spring onions with Romesco Sauce,
- Tortilla de Patatas,
- Espinacas a la Catalana,
- Fideua
- Montadito de tortilla de berengenas
- Membrillo
- Lemon Scented Almond Milk Custard
- Romesco
- Invite some friends over, make some sangria, and make it a real Spanish night! Oh, and most importantly, don't forget to have lots of fun 🙂
Enjoy!!
Did you like our recipe for patatas bravas?
Patatas Bravas
- Total Time: 40 mins
- Yield: 2 generous cups
Description
Patatas bravas is one of the most popular tapas from Spain. This simple, yet delicious tapa is traditionally made with fried potatoes topped with a spicy bravas sauce.
Ingredients
- 5-6 medium potatoes, preferably Yukon gold ( about 2 lbs ). Peeled and cut in about 1-inch cubes
- 3 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoon vegan mayonnaise ( you can also use regular mayo)
- 2-3 dashes hot sauce (or to taste)
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- ¼ -½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional but recommended)
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- 2-3 tablespoon water
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper
- Place the diced potatoes in a bowl, drizzle with olive oil and salt and toss until well coated. Arrange them in one single layer on the lined baking sheet
- Bake at 375F for 30 -45 minutes or until tender and golden brown
- In the meantime, prepare the "Bravas" sauce: in a small bowl combine mayo, hot sauce, paprika, salt and garlic powder. Mix well, add water and whisk until smooth and creamy.
- Spoon sauce over the warm potatoes right before serving
Notes
- You can fry the potatoes if you prefer.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins
- Category: Side or Tapas
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Spain
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ½ cup
- Calories: 276
- Sugar: 2.9
- Sodium: 555
- Fat: 13.2
- Saturated Fat: 2
- Unsaturated Fat: 10.5
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 37
- Fiber: 5.8
- Protein: 4.5
- Cholesterol: 0
cindele
This looks amazing!!!!!!!!!!!!!! So easy and fun...I love the idea of a Spanish dinner party- people will love it. Enjoy the rest of you trip to Barcelona! Thanks for bringing your experience to our kitchen.
mayihavethatrecipe
Thank you! Just a few days left until we leave.... Glad you enjoyed our recipes 🙂
Morgan Martindale
We are in Madrid now, headed to Barcelona later in the week. Do you have an places to eat that you can recommend?!
mayihavethatrecipe
Sure! Are you looking for a good tapas restaurant? There are tons of them in Barcelona of course. You'll find really cool one along Paseo de Gracia and at the Ramblas. One of the most popular ones is Cerveceria Catalana, located on Calle Mallorca, 236. Their phone number is 932 160 368
Have a great trip!! 🙂
mayihavethatrecipe
We would also recommend La Camarga and Muffins (not tapas restaurants) http://www.laprovenza.com/esp/la-camarga/la-camarga.shtml
http://www.restaurantemuffins.com
And our favorite italian restaurant growing up Pizzeria Mario, homemade pasta, simple delicious sauces, great desserts!
http://www.pizzeriamario.com
Carrie
I made it with smoked paprika, and LOVED it!
mayihavethatrecipe
Awesome idea!!!! We love smoked paprika!! Thanks for sharing!
Yaron
so simple so good, i'm making this tonight, thanks!
Joan
If I were making this as a side dish, how many servings would you say this would be?
Vicky & Ruth
We would say about 4, people love potatoes and this recipe specially flies off the table!
cindy faust
This is my best "don't want to cook tonight" recipe. Easy, quick, and goes well with scrambled eggs and Israeli Salad...Done and Delicious!! Best part, hubby loves it!
Vicky & Ruth
Thank you Cindy. you can never go wrong with potatoes!
Nora
Many people shy away from making patatas bravas at home, because they don't want to deep-fry. But a hot oven works beautifully, no frying required! Thanks for spreading the patatas bravas gospel. 😉
Albert Bevia
Your version of patatas bravas is fantastic! love that you baked them and not fried them, these do look like a dish you would get served in Barcelona...Bravo!
Vicky & Ruth
Thank you Albert, we are happy you liked it.
Peter D
I am from the Basque country and we do something similar but with a spicy tomato sauce. The basic idea is the same. Excellent snack with a cold beer or a nice wine and friends. Agur!
Ashley DiPaolo
What brand of hot sauce should be used with this recipe?
Vicky & Ruth
We use Louisiana hot sauce, but you can use any hot sauce you may like.
Rita
I love this recipe! I can never make enough, everyone loves it!
Erin
Made this tonight. It was super easy and totally delicious! Thank you!
Vicky & Ruth
Thank you for sharing Erin!
Elane
Cindella
These patatas bravas remind me of my try trip to Spain a couple of summers ago. Super Yummy Tapa!
Lorissa
Such a simple, but yet delicious tapa!
Margaret
This recipe brings me back to my trip to Spain, delicious!
Jolene
Brings me back memories of my trip to Spain 3 years ago. Thank you! I love that you baked the potatoes instead of frying them.
Melodee
Spain is the next country I would like to visit. These patatas bravas, gave me a little taste of Spain until I get there.
Katie
The best patatas bravas recipe I've had outside Spain!
Davida
These patatas bravas came out perfect, just like the ones I had (more than once) when I last visited Spain,
Alan treumann
Muy deliciosa
Vicky and Ruth
Gracias Alan, nos alegra que te hayan gustado nuestras patatas bravas!
warren
Trippa
Ellen
Rochelle
Pauline
Fantastic recipe did this easy tapas fir my friends who all loved your recipe
Vicky and Ruth
Thank you!
Ann Laidlaw
I love this recipe
Vicky and Ruth
Thank you so much!
Caroline
So glad I found this recipe! It tastes just like the patatas bravas served at my local tapas restaurant and I make it often.
Bessie
Just like the patatas bravas I enjoyed in Spain!
Vicky and Ruth
Thank you so much! Enjoy!
Cassie
I've tried a lot of patatas bravas recipe online and this one is the one that reminds me the most of my exchange student days in Madrid! Thank you so much for the recipe. I also love that it's bake and not fried.
Vicky and Ruth
How amazing to have the opportunity to do a semester abroad! So happy that you love our recipe. Thank you for taking the time to leave us a comment.
Gonalinda
I love patatas bravas, and this recipe is one of the best I've had
Vicky and Ruth
Gonalinda, thank you so much for your kind words. We really appreciate you taking the time to leave us a commnent. Thank you!
Kurt
I absolutely loved this recipe! I was in Spain recently and each little tapas bar have their own version of patatas bravas, but honestly I like this recipe the best. Thank you!
Vicky and Ruth
Thank you so much for your kind words. Thank you for taking the time to leave us a comment!
Randall
Thank you for all the great information related to the recipe. I really enjoyed reading it and loved the recipe too!
Emely
Amazing recipe, loved it!
Dora
It taste just like the patatas bravas I had in Spain. Thank you for the recipe!
Caroline
Love this recipe. It's almost identical to the Patatas Bravas served at our favourite Tapas restaurant.
Vicky and Ruth
So glad you found our recipe Caroline! And Happy to hear that you loved it! Thank you for taking the time to leave us a comment.
Ritchie Dee
You say "Tapas Bar Docamar stands with Team Tomato, firmly holding on to the belief that using tomatoes is the traditional way to make Bravas Sauce." but on their website they don't mention using tomato as one of the main ingredients "La receta de la salsa varía notablemente según la región donde las pidas. En Madrid, la salsa brava clásica que se toma en los bares incluye como ingredientes principales el pimentón ahumado picante, la cebolla, la harina de trigo y el vinagre y nuestra salsa pertenece a esa generación de bares que popularizaron las patatas bravas, es de 1963 y contiene ese sabor típico de las bravas madrileñas que se puede disfrutar también en otros clásicos de la capital como Las Bravas o Los Chicos."
Vicky and Ruth
Hi Ritchie, thank you for pointing that out. We made a mistake when writing the post and we corrected it.
Porta
I was looking for an easy patatas bravas recipe and I am so glad I found your site. Thank you for this wonderful recipe.
Tania
Fantastic recipe!
Laura
Next time I am doubling the recipe. My whole family loved it!
Jamie
I just traveled to Spain all over again with this recipe! Thank you!
Francesc
The best patatas bravas I've ever had!
Leia
This recipe reminds me of my last vacation to Spain. I love patatas bravas and this recipe is fantastic!
Emily
Yum! This was easy to make and they are so delicious! I had an abundance of potatoes and this was the perfect dish to make with them. I will definitely be making this recipe again!
Vicky and Ruth
So glad you enjoyed the recipe! It's one of our most popular recipes.