Patatas bravas, also called patatas a la brava or papas bravas, is a dish native to Spain, often served as a tapa in bars. It typically consists of white potatoes that have been cut into irregular cubes of about two centimetres, then fried in oil and served warm with a sauce such as a spicy tomato sauce.
Patatas bravas is simple and cheap to make, and best of all, you can add any spice or herb to your taste, Spanish recipes are usually modified by each cook. They are excellent party food so if you are thinking of holding a Spanish themed party then why not make these for your guests. If you want to learn more about Spanish food, and how to make it, we recommend that you take a cooking course in Madrid!
Health Benefits
Potatoes are a good source of vitamin C, B6 and dietary fiber and hence the popular choice of food among many.
Ingredients
4 large potatoes
1/2 onion
3 garlic cloves
2 cayenne peppers
1 tsp of paprika
1 cup of crushed natural tomatoes
1 tbsp of flour
vinegar
oil
salt
sugar
water
How To Make Patatas Bravas
- Add the potatoes in a pot with water and bring to boil. Let them cook at high heat.
- Dice the onion in fine chunks and chop the garlic and cayenne peppers.
- Heat two spoonful of oil, preferably olive oil and stir-fry the onion until it becomes transparent.
- When the onion is ready, add the garlic and the cayenne peppers. When the garlic is browned, remove from fire and add the paprika. Stir well so it mixes properly and simmer.
- Add the cup of tomatoes and cook for 5 minutes while continuously stirring so it doesn't stick. Add the sugar and salt.
- Dissolve the flour in half a cup of water and add to the tomato sauce, mix well and cover with water. Cook for 15 minutes.
- Add the vinegar. Add the sauce in the mixer and blend until there are no lumps.
- Once the potatoes are soft, let them cool until they reach room temperature. Peel and cut in irregular cubes, each about 3 cm thick.
- In a frying pan heat abundant olive oil and fry the potatoes in several batches.
- Once they are brown put the potatoes in an absorbent paper so any excess oil is drained
- Add the potatoes to a large bowl and pour the desired amount of sauce and the dish is ready to serve.
Trivia
Did you know potatoes are closely related to both tomatoes and tobacco? Also, it is one of the most important of crops grown across the world next to rice, wheat and corn.