I always thought Patatas Bravas meant “brave potatoes,”
which seemed a little strange since what was supposed to be so brave about
them? Amazingly delicious, yes, but valiant, fearless or courageous? I don’t
think so. Well, apparently my translation skills were lacking, and come to find
out it actually means “fierce.” Now that makes sense.
These are, as advertised, fiercely textured, fiercely
flavored, fiercely presented, and fiercely enjoyed. How fierce is really up to
you and your inner Spaniard. There are as many patatas bravas recipes as homes
in Spain, and this is nothing more than my latest rendition.
flavored, fiercely presented, and fiercely enjoyed. How fierce is really up to
you and your inner Spaniard. There are as many patatas bravas recipes as homes
in Spain, and this is nothing more than my latest rendition.
As long as you boil them
first, fry crisp, and season earnestly, the rest is open to wild
experimentation. I’ve used all sort of blanching liquids, spice blends, and
sauces, and never been disappointed.
My control around food is generally decent, but I am no
match for a plate of these. Once you start with the toothpick, you’ll be
impaling and eating potatoes until they’re gone. If you are making these for a
group, just do in batches and keep warm in the oven until you have enough. Just
don’t salt until the last second, or they can get soggy. I hope you give these
a try soon. Enjoy!
match for a plate of these. Once you start with the toothpick, you’ll be
impaling and eating potatoes until they’re gone. If you are making these for a
group, just do in batches and keep warm in the oven until you have enough. Just
don’t salt until the last second, or they can get soggy. I hope you give these
a try soon. Enjoy!
Ingredients for 4 portions:
2 pounds russet potatoes
For the boiling liquid:
2 quarts cold water
1 tbsp salt
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp cumin
2 bay leaves
For the sauce:
1 cup mayonnaise
garlic to taste
1 tsp tomato paste
1-2 tbsp sherry vinegar
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1/4 tsp chipotle powder
cayenne to taste
2 tbsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp chipotle powder
chopped parsley