Name: Salsa Brava (Bravas Sauce Recipe) Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Spanish
Ingredients: 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 5 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons hot smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon hot paprika; ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, omit if not a fan of super spicy); 1 14.5-ounce can fire roasted diced tomatoes or fresh diced tomatoes; 1 roasted red pepper; 2 tablespoons sherry vinegar or any vinegar of choice; Salt to taste

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Introduction

Salsa Brava is a vibrant and smoky Spanish sauce perfect for dipping or drizzling over potatoes and grilled dishes. This spicy bravas sauce combines smoky paprika with roasted peppers and tomatoes for a flavorful punch.

A wooden bowl filled with a smooth, thick sauce of deep orange-red color with a few small black specks, showing a slightly glossy and creamy texture. A thin wooden spoon is resting inside the bowl, partially submerged in the sauce. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface with a light gray cloth nearby, adding a soft contrast to the rich tones of the sauce and wood. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 onion, chopped
5 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons hot smoked paprika
1 teaspoon hot paprika
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
1 14.5-ounce can fire roasted diced tomatoes or fresh diced tomatoes
1 roasted red pepper
2 tablespoons sherry vinegar or any vinegar of choice
Salt to taste

Instructions

Step 1: In a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat, add the olive oil, garlic, and chopped onion. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the onions become translucent.
Step 2: Add the hot smoked paprika, hot paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), diced tomatoes, roasted red pepper, and vinegar to the pan. Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil. Then reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes.
Step 3: Turn off the heat and carefully transfer the cooked ingredients to a blender or food processor, or use an immersion blender directly in the pan. Blend until smooth.
Step 4: Season with salt to taste, serve with your favorite dishes, and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

For a milder sauce, omit the cayenne pepper or use sweet smoked paprika instead of hot paprika.
Try adding a pinch of sugar if the sauce tastes too acidic.
If you prefer a chunkier texture, pulse the sauce briefly in the blender instead of blending fully smooth.
Use apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar if you don’t have sherry vinegar available.

Storage

Store salsa brava in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave before serving to preserve its vibrant flavors.

How to Serve

A close-up view of a smooth, thick, reddish-brown sauce filling a single layer inside a round wooden bowl. The surface of the sauce has gentle swirls and a slightly shiny, textured look. Behind the bowl is a small white bowl holding a wooden spoon with some of the sauce on it, sitting on a white marbled texture. A gold spoon lies blurred in the background near the bowl. The bowl rests partly on a light gray cloth draped softly over the white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make salsa brava ahead of time?

Yes, salsa brava actually tastes better after the flavors have time to meld. Make it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator.

What dishes pair well with salsa brava?

Salsa brava is traditionally served with patatas bravas (fried potatoes), but it also complements grilled meats, roasted vegetables, and as a flavorful dip for bread.