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Bravas Sauce Recipe (Salsa Brava) Recipe

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4.1 from 4 reviews

A flavorful and smoky Bravas Sauce, perfect for serving with fried potatoes, as a dipping sauce, or even as a pasta sauce. This easy-to-make Spanish-inspired sauce combines sweet and spicy paprika with savory tomato and aromatics, all cooked to a smooth consistency.

Ingredients

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 yellow onion, chopped
  • 2-3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup chopped tomatoes
  • 1/2 tablespoon sweet smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon spicy paprika
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 tablespoon sherry vinegar
  • 1 cup vegetable stock
  • 1 teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. Heat and sauté aromatics: Heat olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add chopped onions and cook until they begin to change color, about 3-5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
  2. Add flour: Sprinkle in all-purpose flour and cook, stirring constantly for 2-3 minutes to form a roux that will thicken the sauce.
  3. Incorporate tomatoes and spices: Add chopped tomatoes, sweet smoked paprika, spicy paprika, and tomato paste to the saucepan. Stir well to combine and cook for a few more minutes to blend the flavors.
  4. Add liquids and simmer: Pour in the vegetable stock and sherry vinegar. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. Season with salt to taste.
  5. Blend sauce: Using a hand blender, puree the sauce directly in the pan until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning if needed.
  6. Serve: Use the Bravas Sauce immediately as a topping for fried potatoes, a dipping sauce, or as a flavorful addition to pasta dishes.

Notes

  • For a spicier sauce, increase the amount of spicy paprika or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
  • The sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • If the sauce is too thick after blending, thin it out with a little extra vegetable stock or water.
  • Use smoked paprika to get the authentic smoky flavor characteristic of Bravas Sauce.