Traditional Patatas Bravas Recipe – Authentic Spanish Tapas

If you love bold flavors and crispy potatoes, this Traditional Patatas Bravas recipe is a must-try. One of the most popular Spanish tapas, patatas bravas features golden fried potatoes served with a spicy, smoky tomato-based sauce known as salsa brava.

This authentic Spanish patatas bravas recipe is simple, flavorful, and perfect for sharing.

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⭐ What Are Patatas Bravas?

Patatas bravas are crispy potato cubes traditionally served in bars across Spain. The dish is known for its slightly spicy bravas sauce, often made with paprika, tomato, garlic, and olive oil.

It’s a classic Spanish tapas recipe that pairs perfectly with drinks and small plates.

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🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Potatoes:

• 4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed

• Olive oil (for frying or roasting)

• Salt to taste

For the Bravas Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon sweet paprika

• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

• ½ teaspoon hot paprika (adjust to taste)

• 1 tablespoon flour

• 1 cup (240ml) vegetable or chicken broth

• ½ cup tomato sauce

• Salt to taste

Optional: aioli for serving.

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👩‍🍳 How to Make Traditional Patatas Bravas

1️⃣ Prepare the Potatoes

Cut potatoes into medium cubes. Rinse and pat dry thoroughly.

Heat olive oil in a deep pan and fry potatoes until golden and crispy. Alternatively, roast in a 400°F (200°C) oven for 30–40 minutes, turning halfway through.

Season with salt while still hot.

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2️⃣ Make the Bravas Sauce

Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté briefly.

Stir in paprika and flour, cooking for about 1 minute. Gradually add broth while stirring to avoid lumps. Add tomato sauce and simmer for 5–7 minutes until thickened.

Blend for a smooth texture if desired.

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3️⃣ Serve

Place crispy potatoes on a serving dish and generously spoon bravas sauce over the top. Add a dollop of aioli if desired.

Serve immediately while hot and crispy.

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🍽️ What to Serve with Patatas Bravas

This Spanish patatas bravas recipe pairs well with:

✔ Grilled meats
✔ Spanish tortilla
✔ Sangria or red wine
✔ Other tapas dishes

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💡 Tips for Perfect Patatas Bravas

• Dry potatoes well before frying for extra crispiness.

• Use smoked paprika for authentic flavor.

• Adjust spice level to your preference.

• Serve immediately to maintain texture.