Patatas Bravas (Papas Bravas) RecipeCrispy Mexican Potatoes are deep fried to crunchy perfection and dusted in bold spices. They’re addictively delicious to enjoy as a side dish and snack with creamy or savory dipping sauces!

close view fried crunchy patatas bravas recipe - Mexican Potatoes

Why We Love Papas Bravas

I mean, really – who doesn’t love fried potatoes?

Crunchy pieces of potato are a classic food found in some shape or form in nearly all corners of the world. From Greek Lemon-Garlic Roasted Potatoes to Harissa Baked French Fries and Gourmet Napa Style Potato Chips… There is no limit to the different flavor blends and cooking methods that can be used to create just the right crispy potato dish of your dreams.

Patatas Bravas, also known as Papas Bravas, is a classic Spanish recipe for fantastic crunchy cubes of potatoes. They are often served as a side dish or snack. However, they are so tasty you likely will want to eat them as a meal all by themselves! Although it originated in Spain, and is often served in Spanish tapas restaurants, this dish is a popular side dish at many Mexican and Latin American restaurants as well.

bowl of crunchy patatas bravas in a silver bowl with aioli and cilantro on top

Crispy Mexican Potatoes (Papas Bravas)

This easy papas bravas recipe we’re sharing today is made with only 6 simple ingredients and takes less than 30 minutes to make!

Chunks of fresh potatoes are quickly deep fried until golden brown, then tossed in a blend of spices before being served hot and delicious. They are vegetarian, vegan, and even gluten free!

Papas Bravas are often served with Bravas Sauce, which is similar to creamy Ranchero sauce. However, here I’ve served them with aioli and cilantro. Try this quick and simple recipe any night of the week, and enjoy it with whatever main dishes and savory sauces you like!

Skip the restaurant and learn how to make patatas bravas right at home!

fork with single Mexican fried potato and bit of sauce and cilantro - Papas Bravas

Papas Bravas Ingredients

  • Russet potatoespeeled and cut into 1 inch cubes
  • Spicessalt, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper
  • Olive oilor your preferred neutral-tasting oil for frying

That’s it!

whole russet potatoes on a white background

Classic Patatas (Papas) Bravas

First, set a large saucepot over medium-high heat. Attach a cooking thermometer to the side of the pot, then pour 3 inches of olive oil into the pot.

While the oil is heating, peel and chop the potatoes. Place the potato chunks in a colander and rinse well. Then set them out on paper towels to dry. Pat the tops so the potatoes are totally dry on all sides.

Pro Tip: If you have time, cut the potatoes ahead of time and soak them in an ice-water bath for 1-2 hours, so they are extra-extra crispy. Then make sure they are very dry before frying.

peeled and chopped potatoes

Now set a large bowl on the counter and line with paper towels.

In a small bowl, mix the salt, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne. Set aside.

spices in a small glass bowl

When the oil reaches 300-325 degrees, gently lower a third of the potatoes into the oil, using a skimmer or slotted spoon.

Stir and fry the potatoes for 5-6 minutes, until golden.

Get the Complete (Printable) Crispy Patatas Bravas Recipe Below. Enjoy!

frying in hot oil in a large pot with thermometer clipped to the side

Remove one chunk and check that the potato is fork-tender in the center. Then remove all the potatoes with the slotted spoon.

Place the fried potatoes in the paper towel lined bowl. Immediately sprinkle one-third of the seasoning mix over the potatoes and toss to coat.

tossing the papas bravas in Mexican spices

Repeat the frying and seasoning two more times, or until all the potatoes are cooked.

Serve warm as a side or snack with your favorite toppings and sauces.

overhead view of fried Mexican potatoes in a silver bowl - Papas Bravas

Suggestions for What to Serve with Crispy Mexican Potatoes

Top the crunchy papas bravas with chopped cilantro and a generous swirl of aioli or preferred creamy sauce.

Or enjoy plain with dipping sauces on the side! You can have the aioli in a dish, or serve with ranchero sauce, salsa, sour cream, or even simple ketchup!

Tips & Tricks

  • Use potatoes that are high in starch! Russet potatoes are great for this recipe, but you can also use Idaho or red potatoes!
  • If you have time, soaking the potatoes in an ice water bath will help to get rid of some of the starch and make them super crispy! If you do this, you have to let the potatoes dry a bit on paper towels. Don’t put wet potatoes into hot oil!
  • Like spicy? Make sure you add enough cayenne pepper to satisfy your spicy needs!
overhead top view two bowl with Mexican fried potatoes with aioli and chopped cilantro | final view of competed patatas bravas recipe

Frequently Asked Questions

What dishes do patatas bravas go well with?

Fried Mexican potatoes are delish to enjoy as a side with enchiladas, enchilada skillets, tacos, quesadillas, or any of your favorite latin-inspired dishes! You can even serve them with breakfast foods, like breakfast casserole, stuffed poblano peppers, or Mexican breakfast salad.

How can I use papas bravas to make other recipes?

Not only are these crunchy patatas bravas great as a side with tacos and burritos, they can be used as a taco and burrito filling! Load them into or onto tortillas with your favorite goodies for hearty vegetarian dishes. Keep things gluten free and low(ish) carb by using them in burrito bowls and taco salads.

Can I make papas bravas in an air fryer?

Yes! You can easily air fry Mexican potatoes. Heat the air fryer to 325 degrees, spray the basket with your preferred oil, and cook the potatoes for 10-15 minutes depending on how crispy you like them. Give the basket a good shake halfway into cook time. Then transfer to the paper towel-lined bowl and immediately toss in the spices.

How long do crispy Mexican potatoes last?

Like most fried foods, these crunchy potato chunks are best when eaten hot and fresh. However, they will keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days if stored in an airtight container. Reheat by baking in a 350-degree oven on a baking sheet for a few minutes, until warmed throughout.

bowl of finished patatas bravas recipe close up with creamy aioli and chopped cilantro

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Mexican Potatoes (Papas Bravas)

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
This easy Patatas Bravas (Papas Bravas) recipe features potatoes deep fried to crispy perfection, then dusted in bold Mexican spices. Enjoy as a side dish or snack with creamy savory sauces!
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Set a large saucepot over medium-high heat. Attach a cooking thermometer to the side of the pot. Then pour 3 inches of olive oil into the pot.
  • While the oil is heating, peel and chop the potatoes. Place the potato chunks in a colander and rinse well. Then set them out on paper towels to dry. Pat the tops so the potatoes are dry on all sides.
  • Set a large bowl and the counter and line with paper towels. Then in a small bowl, mix the salt, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne.
  • When the oil reaches 300-325 degrees, gently lower a third of the potatoes into the oil, using a skimmer or slotted spoon. Stir and fry for 5-6 minutes, until golden. Remove one chunk and check that the potato is fork-tender in the center. Then remove all the potatoes with the slotted spoon.
  • Place the fried potatoes in the paper towel lined bowl. Sprinkle one-third of the seasoning mix over the potatoes and toss.
  • Repeat the frying and seasoning two more times, until all the potatoes are cooked. Serve warm as-is, or with aioli or creamy ranchero sauce.

Notes

Use as an appetizer, side dish, in burrito bowls, or Mexican breakfast bowls, or in Patatas nachos!
Like most fried foods, these crunchy potato chunks are best when eaten hot and fresh. However, they will keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days if stored in an airtight container. Reheat by baking in a 350 degree oven on a baking sheet for a few minutes, until warmed throughout.
Pro Tip: If you have time, cut the potatoes ahead of time and soak them in an ice-water bath for 1-2 hours, so they are extra crispy. Then make sure they are very dry before frying.

Nutrition

Serving: 0.75cup, Calories: 272kcal, Carbohydrates: 62g, Protein: 7g, Fat: 1g, Saturated Fat: 1g, Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g, Monounsaturated Fat: 1g, Sodium: 1180mg, Potassium: 1436mg, Fiber: 5g, Sugar: 2g, Vitamin A: 276IU, Vitamin C: 19mg, Calcium: 46mg, Iron: 3mg
Course: Appetizer, Side Dish, Snack
Cuisine: Central American, Mexican
Author: Sommer Collier
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