Chef John's Patatas Bravas

Rate this recipe
Be the first to rate

Are you tired of the same old potato dishes? Looking for a way to spice up your meals? Well, look no further because Chef John's Patatas Bravas is here to save the day!

Chef John's Patatas Bravas
Prep
25 min
Cook
20 min
Total
1 hr 30 min
Servings
4

Method

  1. Prepare the dipping sauce by combining garlic, smoked paprika, and salt in a mortar and pestle or food processor. Process until smooth.

  2. Add mayonnaise, sherry vinegar, tomato paste, chipotle chile powder, and cayenne pepper to the mixture. Mix well to combine.

  3. Cover the sauce and refrigerate it for later use.

  4. Create the spice blend by mixing salt, black pepper, paprika, and chipotle chile powder in a small bowl. Set it aside.

  5. In a large saucepan, pour water and stir in salt, smoked paprika, cumin, and bay leaves. Bring the mixture to a boil.

  6. Reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let it simmer for 10 minutes.

  7. Stir the potatoes into the seasoned water and bring it to a boil again. Simmer until the potatoes are tender but not fully cooked, approximately 4 to 5 minutes. You can test their doneness using a paring knife - it should easily insert into the center of a potato cube.

  8. Drain the potatoes and transfer them to a wire rack. Allow them to cool completely, which should take around 45 minutes.

  9. Heat vegetable oil in a large cast iron skillet or Dutch oven to a temperature of 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).

  10. Add the cooled potato cubes to the hot oil and cook, stirring frequently, until they turn golden brown

About this recipe

Are you tired of the same old potato dishes? Looking for a way to spice up your meals? Well, look no further because Chef John's Patatas Bravas is here to save the day!

What are Patatas Bravas?

Patatas Bravas is a popular Spanish dish consisting of crispy fried potatoes served with a spicy tomato sauce. It's the perfect combination of crispy, creamy, and spicy flavors that will leave you craving for more.

The Secret to Crispy Potatoes

Have you ever wondered how some restaurants manage to make their fried potatoes so irresistibly crispy? The secret lies in the double frying technique. Chef John's Patatas Bravas recipe will guide you through the process, ensuring perfectly crispy potatoes every time.

Step 1: Parboil the Potatoes

Parboiling the potatoes before frying them is the key to achieving that perfect crispy texture. By partially boiling the potatoes, you soften the interior while leaving the skin intact. This allows the potatoes to soak up less oil during frying, resulting in a lighter and crispier end product.

Step 2: Double Fry for Extra Crispiness

After parboiling, the potatoes are fried twice to achieve maximum crispiness. The first fry cooks the potatoes until they are golden brown, while the second fry gives them that irresistible crunch. It may sound like extra work, but the end result is well worth the effort.

The Flavors of Spain

The star of the show in Chef John's Patatas Bravas is the spicy tomato sauce. This sauce adds a kick of heat and a burst of flavor to the dish. Made with a combination of tomatoes, garlic, paprika, and other spices, it's the perfect complement to the crispy potatoes.

A Spicy Tomato Sauce with a Twist

Chef John's recipe takes the traditional tomato sauce up a notch by adding a unique twist. By incorporating smoked paprika, he adds a smoky and slightly sweet flavor that sets his Patatas Bravas apart from the rest. It's a flavor combination that will make your taste buds sing!

Serving and Enjoying Patatas Bravas

Patatas Bravas is typically served as a tapas dish, perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying as an appetizer. It's a versatile dish that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with other Spanish favorites like paella or chorizo. No matter how you choose to enjoy it, one thing is for sure – you won't be able to resist going back for seconds!

Get Creative with Your Toppings

While the traditional Patatas Bravas recipe calls for a spicy tomato sauce, feel free to get creative with your toppings. Add a dollop of aioli for a creamy twist or sprinkle some grated cheese for an extra indulgence. The possibilities are endless, so let your imagination run wild!

In Conclusion

Chef John's Patatas Bravas is a dish that combines the best of both worlds – crispy fried potatoes and a spicy tomato sauce. It's a flavor explosion that will leave you wanting more. So why not give it a try and bring a taste of Spain to your next meal?

Frequently asked questions

Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?

Absolutely! Sweet potatoes can be a delicious alternative to regular potatoes in this recipe.

Can I make the tomato sauce less spicy?

Of course! Adjust the amount of chili powder or omit it altogether if you prefer a milder sauce.

Can I make the potatoes ahead of time?

While the potatoes are best enjoyed fresh and crispy, you can parboil and fry them ahead of time. Just make sure to reheat them in the oven to regain their crispiness before serving.

Are Patatas Bravas gluten-free?

Yes, the basic recipe for Patatas Bravas is gluten-free. However, if you choose to add any additional toppings or sauces, be sure to check their ingredients for gluten content.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

While it's best to enjoy Patatas Bravas fresh, you can freeze any leftover potatoes for up to three months. Just remember to reheat them in the oven to maintain their crispiness.

Can I use store-bought tomato sauce instead of making my own?

While making your own tomato sauce adds an extra layer of flavor, you can certainly use store-bought sauce as a shortcut if you're short on time.

Can I use an air fryer instead of deep-frying the potatoes?

Yes, you can use an air fryer to achieve a similar result. Just make sure to follow the instructions for your specific air fryer model.

What other dishes can I serve with Patatas Bravas?

Patatas Bravas pairs well with a variety of Spanish dishes, such as paella, chorizo, or Spanish omelette. It's a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as part of a tapas spread or as a side dish to a main course.

AprilCook, recipe developer and the heart of Chefwiz. More about April

More appetizers & snacks

See all →