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Crispy Patatas Bravas Recipe with Smoky Aioli and Spicy Sauce

crispy patatas bravas - featured image

A simple and authentic tapas-style recipe featuring crispy fried potatoes served with a creamy smoky aioli and a spicy tomato sauce. Perfect for casual gatherings or a flavorful snack.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 large russet potatoes (about 2 pounds / 900 g), peeled and cut into 1-inch (2.5 cm) cubes
  • 1/4 cup olive oil (extra virgin recommended)
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise (homemade or store-bought)
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
  • Salt, to taste
  • 1 cup canned crushed tomatoes (San Marzano if possible)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for heat preference)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Potatoes: Peel and cut russet potatoes into 1-inch cubes. Rinse under cold water to remove excess starch, drain well, and pat dry with a clean kitchen towel. Optionally refrigerate uncovered for 30 minutes to dry further.
  2. Cook the Potatoes: Heat 1/4 cup olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add potatoes in a single layer without overcrowding. Fry for about 15 minutes, turning occasionally until golden and crisp. Season halfway through with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Watch carefully to avoid burning.
  3. Make the Smoky Aioli: Mix mayonnaise, minced garlic, smoked paprika, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt in a bowl until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning as needed and keep chilled until serving.
  4. Prepare the Spicy Tomato Sauce: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Cook chopped onion until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper; cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Add crushed tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Simmer gently for 10-15 minutes until slightly thickened, stirring occasionally. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  5. Assemble and Serve: Transfer crispy potatoes to a serving dish. Spoon spicy tomato sauce over the top, then drizzle with smoky aioli. Optionally sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or additional smoked paprika. Serve immediately.

Notes

Dry potatoes thoroughly before frying for best crispiness. Avoid overcrowding the pan to prevent steaming. Use Spanish smoked paprika for authentic flavor. The spicy tomato sauce benefits from slow simmering. Reheat potatoes in a skillet or oven to maintain crispiness; avoid microwave reheating.

Nutrition

Keywords: patatas bravas, crispy potatoes, smoky aioli, spicy tomato sauce, tapas, Spanish appetizer, fried potatoes, smoky paprika