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Patatas Bravas Recipe: A Spanish Classic

If you’re looking to impress your friends at a dinner party or simply wanting to indulge in some delicious comfort food, Patatas Bravas is the perfect dish. Originating from Spain, this iconic dish consists of crispy, golden potatoes served with a spicy tomato sauce and often accompanied by a dollop of aioli. Read on for an authentic Patatas Bravas recipe that will transport you straight to the bustling tapas bars of Madrid.

Ingredients

For the Potatoes:

• 1 kg (2.2 lbs) of floury potatoes (such as Maris Piper or King Edward)
• Olive oil
• Sea salt

For the Bravas Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust according to your spice preference)
• 1 can (400 g) chopped tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

For the Aioli (Optional):

• 2 egg yolks
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
• 150 ml olive oil
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

1. Begin by peeling the potatoes and cutting them into chunky, bite-sized pieces. Aim for even sizes to ensure they cook uniformly.
2. Place the potatoes in a large pot of salted water and bring to the boil. Cook for about 5-8 minutes, or until they are just tender but not falling apart. Drain and let them sit to dry out for a few minutes.

Step 2: Fry the Potatoes

1. In a large frying pan, heat a generous amount of olive oil over medium heat. Make sure there’s enough oil to cover the base of the pan.
2. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the drained potatoes. Fry them until they are golden and crispy, turning occasionally. This should take about 15-20 minutes. Once cooked, remove them from the pan and place them on a plate lined with kitchen paper to absorb any excess oil. Sprinkle with sea salt.

Step 3: Make the Bravas Sauce

1. In a saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened and translucent, approximately 5 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, being careful not to burn it.
3. Stir in the smoked paprika and cayenne pepper, cooking for another minute to release the flavours.
4. Add the chopped tomatoes and red wine vinegar. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 10–15 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Make the Aioli (Optional)

1. In a bowl, combine the egg yolks, Dijon mustard, and red wine vinegar. Using a hand whisk or electric whisk, gradually drizzle in the olive oil while whisking continually until the mixture emulsifies into a thick sauce.
2. Stir in the minced garlic and season with salt to taste. Adjust the consistency with a little water if necessary.

Step 5: Assemble and Serve

1. To serve, arrange the crispy potatoes on a serving platter. Generously spoon over the Bravas sauce, or serve it on the side for dipping.
2. Optionally, drizzle the aioli over the potatoes or serve it alongside for a creamy contrast. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.

Final Thoughts

Patatas Bravas is not only a delightful dish for a casual gathering but also a versatile recipe that can be customised to suit your taste. Whether you enjoy it spicy, mild, or with a garlicky touch, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy your homemade Patatas Bravas with a side of sangria or your favourite Spanish wine, and savour the flavours of Spain in the comfort of your own home. Bon appétit!

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