Patatas Bravas Elegantes

Introduction to Patatas Bravas Elegantes

Patatas Bravas, a classic Spanish tapas dish, is beloved for its crispy potatoes and spicy sauce. Originating in Madrid, it has become a staple in bars and restaurants throughout Spain. "Patatas Bravas Elegantes" is a refined version that elevates the traditional dish with gourmet twists and techniques to enhance the flavor and presentation, perfect for a sophisticated dinner party or a special tapas night.

Ingredients

• Potatoes - 1 kg, preferably Yukon Gold or Russet
• Olive Oil - 100ml for frying
• Sweet Paprika - 2 tbsp
• Smoked Paprika - 1 tsp
• Onion - 1, finely chopped
• Garlic - 3 cloves, minced
• Tomato Paste - 2 tbsp
• White Wine Vinegar - 1 tbsp
• Mayonnaise - 100ml
• Parsley - a handful, chopped
• Salt - to taste
• Black Pepper - to taste
• Red Chili Flakes - optional, to taste

Preparation

Preparing the Potatoes

Begin by peeling and cutting the potatoes into 2 cm cubes. This size ensures they become perfectly crispy on the outside while remaining fluffy inside.

The Sauce

In a pan, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté until it becomes translucent. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute.

Add the tomato paste, sweet paprika, and smoked paprika. Cook the mixture until it becomes a deep, rich red, about 5 minutes.

Pour in the white wine vinegar and let it cook down. This process adds a tangy depth to the sauce.

Season with salt and black pepper to taste. If you prefer extra heat, add red chili flakes.

Cooking the Potatoes

In a large pan, heat the remaining olive oil over medium-high heat. Ensure the potatoes are dry before adding them to the oil.

Fry the potatoes in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, cooking them until they are golden brown and crispy. This typically takes about 10 minutes per batch. Use a cooking timer to keep track.

Once cooked, drain the potatoes on paper towels. Season immediately with salt to enhance their flavor.

Assembling Patatas Bravas Elegantes

Place the crispy potatoes onto a serving dish. Drizzle generously with the prepared sauce, ensuring each piece is covered.

For the elegant touch, create a simple aïoli by mixing the mayonnaise with a small amount of water to loosen it. Drizzle or dot this across the potatoes for a rich, creamy counterbalance to the spicy sauce.

Finish with a sprinkle of chopped parsley, adding a pop of color and freshness.

Enjoying the Dish

Serve the Patatas Bravas Elegantes hot as a tapas dish. It's perfect when paired with a chilled glass of white wine or a refreshing Spanish beer. Traditionally, this dish encourages communal dining, bringing people together with its bold, exciting flavors.

Whether enjoyed as an appetizer or alongside a variety of other tapas dishes, Patatas Bravas Elegantes captivates the palate with its dynamic tastes and is sure to be a conversation starter among your guests.