The ultimate patatas bravas recipe: The authentic spanish tapas star

⏲️ Prep time: 15 minutes

👨‍🍳 Cook time: 30 minutes

⌛ Total time: 45 minutes

📊 Difficulty level: Medium

🍽️Servings: 4-6

As a Spanish chef who has crafted the ultimate patatas bravas recipe over thousands of times in Madrid and London, I can tell you this isn't just another potato dish. When you're searching for authentic patatas bravas or wondering how to make patatas bravas at home, you've found your definitive guide..

Today, I'm sharing my authentic patatas bravas recipes, the same one that has made countless families gather around the table, sharing stories and creating memories. Whether you're hosting a tapas night or craving a taste of Spain, this homemade version will transport you straight to the heart of Spanish cuisine

What is patatas bravas?

Patatas bravas (literally meaning "brave potatoes") is one of Spain's most beloved tapas dishes. Every time I prepare this dish, I'm transported back to the bustling streets of Madrid, where the aroma of the spicy bravas sauce wafting from local tapas bars would draw people in like a magnet.

The combination of crispy potatoes and our signature patatas bravas sauce creates a harmony of flavors that's simply irresistible.

How to make patatas bravas

Patatas bravas ingredients

• 1kg potatoes (preferably Maris Piper or King Edward)

• 50ml light olive oil

• Crystal salt to season

• 1 head of garlic, skin on

• 3 sprigs rosemary

• Pinch of sweet paprika

• 1 tbsp parsley, chopped

Patatas bravas sauce ingredients

• 50ml olive oil

• 1 onion, finely chopped

• 1 garlic clove, sliced

• 1 bay leaf

• A pinch chili flakes

• 1 tsp sweet paprika

• 1 tsp sugar

• 1 pinch cumin powder

• Black pepper to season

• 1 shot of sherry vinegar

• 1 pinch of dried oregano

• 1 x 400g chopped tomato tin

• 100ml water

• Salt to season

The secret behind perfect patatas bravas: The signature sauce

As a Spanish cook with more than 25 years of experience, I can tell you that the real magic of patatas bravas lies in their signature sauce. The traditional patatas bravas sauce requires great attention to detail, precise measurements and specific ingredients that may not be available in every kitchen.

While I love teaching how to make it from scratch (and will share that recipe below), I understand that not everyone has the time or ingredients to prepare it. That's why you can purchase an iconic patatas bravas sauce from my online store and ensure a unique flavor in your recipe.

Pro tips for the best patata bravas

• Always double-fry for maximum crispiness

• Pat potatoes completely dry before frying

• Season potatoes while hot

• Use high-quality Spanish paprika

• Serve sauce warm, not hot

Preparation: How to make perfect patatas bravas

The secret to perfect patatas bravas lies in the technique and patience. Let me guide you through this traditional Spanish recipe step by step.

How to make patatas bravas

1. Start by soaking the cubed potatoes in cold water for 30 minutes to remove excess starch.

2. Drain and pat the potatoes completely dry.

3. Heat the olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat.

4. Add the garlic head and rosemary sprigs to infuse the oil.

5. Fry the potatoes in batches until golden and crispy (about 15-20 minutes).

6. Remove and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.

7. Season immediately with salt and a sprinkle of sweet paprika.

How to make patatas bravas sauce

1. Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat.

2. Sauté the onion until translucent (about 5 minutes).

3. Add garlic and bay leaf, cooking for another 2 minutes.

4. Stir in paprika, chili flakes, and cumin.

5. Add chopped tomatoes, sugar, and water.

6. Simmer for 20 minutes until thickened.

7. Season with salt, pepper, and sherry vinegar.

8. Blend until smooth and adjust seasoning if needed.

The magic of patatas bravas lies in its ability to bring people together. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet family meal, this dish creates moments of joy and connection. I've seen countless faces light up as they take their first bite of these "brave potatoes," and that's what makes sharing this recipe so special.

Remember, the key to perfect papas bravas récipe is patience with the double-frying process and love in making the sauce. The result? A dish that's crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and drenched in a sauce that's both comforting and exciting – just like the Spanish way of life.

¡Buen provecho!