Crispy Patatas Bravas with Garlic Aioli

Name: Crispy Patatas Bravas with Garlic Aioli
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Spanish
Ingredients: 4 medium starchy potatoes (e.g., Russets), peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes; 1 cup extra virgin olive oil for frying; 2 tsp smoked paprika; 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced; 1 large egg yolk; 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste

Published: July 12, 2025

by william castellanos

Why You'll Love This Recipe

The ease of preparation makes these crispy patatas bravas perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests
Their rich flavor profile combines spices and creamy aioli for an irresistible taste
Visually appealing golden cubes will brighten any plate and make you the star of your dinner party
Versatile enough for snacks or as a side dish, they fit any occasion seamlessly

I still remember the first time I made crispy patatas bravas; my friends couldn’t stop raving about them. They’ve since become our go-to party snack!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Peeled Potatoes: Choose starchy potatoes like Russets for that perfect crispy texture when fried.
Olive Oil: Opt for extra virgin olive oil for its rich flavor and health benefits.
Paprika: Use smoked paprika for an added depth that pairs beautifully with the potatoes.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves are essential for crafting that luscious aioli; don’t skimp on them!
Egg Yolk: A single egg yolk helps emulsify the aioli, creating a silky texture that enhances every bite.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens up the aioli and balances out flavors wonderfully.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all your ingredients; be generous but not too much!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare the Potatoes: Begin by peeling and cutting your potatoes into bite-sized cubes, aiming for uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.

Heat the Oil: Pour enough olive oil into a deep frying pan to submerge the potato cubes halfway. Heat over medium-high until shimmering but not smoking.

Add Potatoes to Oil: Carefully lower potato cubes into hot oil in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry until golden brown, about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally.

Drain and Season: Once cooked, use a slotted spoon to transfer potatoes onto paper towels to drain excess oil. Sprinkle generously with salt and smoked paprika while still hot.

Make Garlic Aioli: In a bowl, whisk together egg yolk, minced garlic cloves, and lemon juice until smooth. Slowly drizzle in olive oil while whisking continuously until thickened.

Serve Hot!: Plate your crispy patatas bravas alongside a generous dollop of garlic aioli. Watch them disappear as friends dive in!

These crispy patatas bravas with garlic aioli are not only easy to make but also bring joy to any gathering! garlic breadsticks to complement.

You Must Know

Crispy Patatas Bravas with Garlic Aioli are a Spanish delight that transforms any meal into a fiesta
The contrast of crispy potatoes and smooth aioli creates a flavor explosion
Perfect for entertaining or as a snack, these vibrant bites will steal the show

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by parboiling the potatoes for 10 minutes, then fry them until golden brown for maximum crunch. This ensures they are fluffy on the inside while crispy on the outside.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to spice things up by adding smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for an extra kick. You can also experiment with different herbs like rosemary or thyme for added flavor.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover patatas bravas in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat in a hot oven at 400°F for about 10 minutes to restore crispiness.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For perfectly crispy patatas bravas, ensure your oil is hot enough before frying
Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this lowers oil temperature
Serve immediately for optimal texture and flavor, and don’t skip the garlic aioli!

Sometimes I make these patatas bravas when friends come over, and they always ask for the recipe, who knew spuds could be such rock stars?

FAQ

Can I make aioli without raw eggs?

Yes, use mayonnaise instead of raw eggs to simplify the garlic aioli.

What potatoes are best for Patatas Bravas?

Waxy potatoes like Yukon Golds work great due to their creamy texture.

How can I make this dish vegan?

Simply replace mayonnaise with a plant-based alternative in the garlic aioli recipe.