Patatas Bravas is one of Spain’s most beloved tapas dishes, and it’s easy to make plant-based at home. At Ahimsa Plant Kitchen, I love recreating classic recipes with simple, wholesome ingredients. This vegan version features crispy fried potatoes paired with a creamy, smoky, and slightly spicy sauce that brings bold flavor to every bite.
The dish is all about contrasts: crunchy, golden potatoes meet a smooth, smoky sauce made from sweet and spicy paprika, onion, and garlic. I enjoy chopping and seasoning the potatoes carefully, then frying them until perfectly crisp. Meanwhile, preparing the sauce is a comforting process, as the aromas of paprika and garlic fill the kitchen. Once everything is ready, I drizzle the sauce over the potatoes or serve it on the side for dipping. Either way, it’s delicious and satisfying.
Patatas Bravas is perfect as a tapas dish, snack, or even a fun side for lunch or dinner. For example, you can serve it alongside a fresh salad or a spread of other plant-based Spanish dishes. It’s also a great recipe to share with friends, as everyone can enjoy dipping the crispy potatoes into the smoky sauce. The recipe is fully vegan, so it’s inclusive and comforting for all dietary preferences.
Finally, presenting Patatas Bravas is part of the fun. I like to sprinkle extra paprika or chopped parsley on top for a vibrant finish. Each bite is crispy, creamy, smoky, and flavorful, bringing the taste of Spain straight to your kitchen. This plant-based recipe is simple to follow, impressive to serve, and perfect for anyone who loves bold, hearty flavors. However, if you are vegan and order this in a Spanish restaurant, be sure to check if the sauce is plant-based too.
Spanish fried Potatoes (Patatas Bravas)
Ingredients
For the fried potatoes:
- 2 lbs / 1kg potatoes peeled, chopped into chunks
- 1 tsp sodium bicarbonate
- 1/2 tsp salt or to taste
- oil as needed
For the sauce:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 onion finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1.5 tsp sweet paprika
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- 0.5 tsp cayenne pepper adjust to desired spiciness
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tbsp flour
- 3/4 cup veggie stock or water
- 1 tsp sherry vinegar
- 1/4 tsp salt or to taste
- 1/4 tsp pepper or taste
Instructions
- Bring water to a boil in a pot, add baking soda (helps crisp the potatoes), then add potatoes and cook for 7 minutes.
- Drain, cool, and dry completely, ensuring they don't touch. Spread potatoes in a single layer in your air-fryer basket.
- Lightly spray with oil and air-fry at high heat until golden brown and crispy, about 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
- For the sauce heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Sauté onion until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Add paprika, and cayenne pepper (adjust to your spice preference) and cook for 1 minute. Stir in tomato paste and broth (or water), and simmer for 5 minutes. Let the sauce cool slightly, then blend with vinegar until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Sprinkle the crispy potatoes with sea salt and serve alongside the “Salsa Brava”. Enjoy your homemade Patatas Bravas!