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Best Patatas Bravas Recipe: Easy Spanish Fried Potatoes with Spicy Sauce

Patatas bravas is a beloved tapas dish that hails from Spain, particularly renowned in Madrid and Barcelona. These crispy fried potatoes, paired with a spicy tomato sauce, are a staple in Spanish cuisine and a favourite among food enthusiasts worldwide. Whether you’re hosting a tapas night or simply craving a bite of Spain at home, this recipe for patatas bravas is not only simple to prepare but also guaranteed to impress.

Ingredients

For the Potatoes:

• 4 large potatoes (such as Maris Piper or King Edward)
• 4 tablespoons of olive oil
• Sea salt
• Freshly ground black pepper
• Paprika (preferably sweet or smoked)

For the Spicy Sauce:

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

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

1. Peel and Chop: Begin by peeling the potatoes and cutting them into bite-sized chunks or wedges. Aim for uniformity in size to ensure even cooking.
2. Parboil: Place the chopped potatoes in a large pot of salted water. Bring to a boil and cook for about 5-7 minutes until just tender but not fully cooked. Drain and allow them to steam dry for a few minutes.
3. Roughen the Edges: While the potatoes are still warm, gently shake them in the colander—this helps to create rough edges, which gives a delightful crispiness when fried.

Step 2: Fry the Potatoes

1. Heat Oil: In a large frying pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Test the oil by dropping in a piece of potato; if it sizzles, the oil is ready.
2. Fry: Carefully add the potatoes to the pan in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are golden and crispy on all sides.
3. Season: Once cooked, remove the potatoes from the pan and drain them on kitchen paper. Season generously with sea salt, freshly ground black pepper, and paprika while they are still hot.

Step 3: Make the Spicy Sauce

1. Sauté the Base: In a separate saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
2. Add Tomatoes and Spices: Pour in the chopped tomatoes, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Stir well, bring to a simmer, and let it cook for 10-15 minutes until the sauce has thickened. Add red wine vinegar and season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the heat level by adding more cayenne if desired.

Step 4: Serve

1. Plate Up: In a serving bowl or plate, generously pile the crispy patatas and drizzle over the spicy sauce. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of colour and flavour.
2. Enjoy: Serve immediately while the potatoes are hot and crispy, alongside some fresh bread or other tapas for a true Spanish experience.

Tips for the Perfect Patatas Bravas

• Choose the Right Potato: Opting for floury potatoes will yield a fluffier interior, while waxy potatoes tend to stay firmer.
• Double Frying: For extra crispiness, consider frying the potatoes twice—once to cook them through and a second time at a higher temperature to crisp the exterior.
• Customise the Sauce: Feel free to adjust the spiciness of the sauce or add extras like chopped bell peppers for a twist on the traditional flavour.

Patatas bravas, with their crunchy outer layer and spicy tomato sauce, are sure to become a hit at your next gathering. Serve with a chilled glass of Spanish wine or a refreshing sangria, and transport your taste buds directly to the Mediterranean. Enjoy this simple yet delectable dish that embodies the heart and soul of Spanish cuisine!

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