Friends, today's post comes with a chat, a video, an explanation, and four recipes all at once. I don't know about you, but for me, this is a post to use, save, and share even with my neighbor. Papas bravas are a traditional Spanish dish , especially popular in the Madrid region. They consist of potatoes cut into cubes (or "cachos" as we say here) and then cooked in oil until crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
Patatas bravas are an appetizer or tapa that can be enjoyed in bars and restaurants. Of the three sauce recipes to accompany potatoes, the first we'll discuss is the traditional one eaten in Spain, the second is with tomato, and the third is a light, yet delicious, easy, and simple aioli.
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About the patatas bravas
First a little bit of history
The exact origin of papas bravas is uncertain, and there is some controversy about its history. However, it is believed that this dish originated in the Community of Madrid, Spain, in the early to mid-20th century.
became popular as a tapa in Madrid's bars and taverns , where they were served as an accompaniment to a drink. Originally, the term "bravas" referred to the spicy sauce served with the potatoes, rather than the dish itself.
The popular papas bravas
Over the years, patatas bravas have become a very popular tapa throughout Spain and can be found in different variations and styles in different regions of the country. Each place can have its own version, adapting the recipe and seasonings to local tastes.
In Catalonia, they're known as "patatas bravas" and are sometimes served with an additional aioli sauce. Bravas potatoes are often served with beer or Spanish wine. The combination of crispy potatoes and spicy sauce with a refreshing drink is highly appreciated .
Some interesting facts about papas bravas
During the Spanish Civil War (1936–1939), food rationing led to the creation of simple and inexpensive dishes, such as papas bravas . This tapa is said to have originated during that period as a way to use up potatoes and flavor them with a spicy sauce.
In some places, especially in northern Spain, patatas bravas are served skewered on individual sticks, known as "pinchos ." This makes them easier to eat and has become a popular way to present them at bars and parties.
In Spain, especially in the Community of Madrid, events and festivals dedicated to papas bravas are held. These festivities highlight the cultural and culinary importance of this dish and allow lovers of patatas bravas to enjoy different versions and styles.
Traditional patatas bravas recipe
These chips are the kind you'd find in any bar or restaurant in Spain. This sauce, with its characteristic spicy flavor, adds a touch of flavor and warmth to the chips .
Ingredients
- ½ kg of peeled and washed potatoes
- Natura vegetable oil
- 5 tablespoons of olive oil
- 2 tablespoons sweet smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon of spicy paprika
- 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour
- 1 ladle of broth
- Salt to taste
How to make traditional patatas bravas
- Cut the potatoes into large chunks and make sure they're completely dry. Heat a frying pan over medium heat with 1 cm of Natura vegetable oil.
- Pour the potatoes into the pan and cook for about 15 minutes, stirring slowly and turning them over so they don't burn or stick.
- In another pan, add the olive oil and both types of paprika. Stir until everything is combined, then add the flour and form the roux.
- Add the broth and stir. Add salt to taste and continue stirring.
- When it begins to thicken, remove from the heat.
Paulina Cocina-style patatas bravas recipe (with tomato)
These patatas bravas are different and not as spicy as traditional ones. If you're like us, a big tomato fan, you'll love them. If not, they're also delicious.
Ingredients
- 5 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 tablespoon sweet smoked paprika
- ½ tablespoon of spicy paprika
- ½ cup of crushed tomatoes
- Salt to taste
- Ground black, pink, and white pepper
How to make the Paulina Cocina-style patatas bravas recipe
- Mix or blend the tomato until no chunks remain.
- Place the olive oil and both types of paprika in a pan. Stir until everything is combined, then add the tomato.
- Season to taste, continue stirring, and cook for 5 more minutes.
Fake aioli recipe
Aioli is an excellent and widely used addition to brava sauce, as it adds a freshness and garlicky flavor that make a difference in every bite. In this case, we decided to give you a quick and easy recipe so you don't waste a second eating your potatoes.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons of Natura mayonnaise
- 1 garlic clove
- 2 tablespoons of lemon juice
How to make the fake aioli recipe
- Place the Natura mayonnaise, garlic, and lemon juice in the mixer bowl or blender cup, blend until smooth and creamy.
