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Have you ever craved a dish that’s both comforting and bursting with flavor? Something that feels like a warm hug on a plate? Well, let me introduce you to Smoked Paprika Plant-Based Meatballs with Patatas Bravas! This isn't your average meatball recipe. It's a fusion of Spanish tapas flair and plant-based goodness, designed to tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more. I remember the first time I tried Patatas Bravas in Barcelona – it was a game-changer! The combination of crispy potatoes and smoky, spicy sauce was simply irresistible.
The heart of this dish lies in the smoky paprika, which infuses both the plant-based meatballs and the brava sauce with a rich, deep flavor. I always tell people, don't be shy with the smoked paprika! It's what gives this dish its signature taste. For the plant-based meatballs, we're using a blend of breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, and oregano to create a savory, satisfying bite. And for the patatas bravas, we're roasting Yukon gold potatoes to crispy perfection and smothering them in a homemade brava sauce that's smoky, spicy, and utterly addictive.
Required Equipments
Large Bowl
Skillet
Baking Sheet
Potato Peeler
Saucepan
Smoked Paprika Plant Based Meatballs with Patatas Bravas: Frequently Asked Questions
Smoked Paprika Plant Based Meatballs with Patatas Bravas
Smoked Paprika Plant-Based Meatballs with Patatas Bravas: a delightful fusion of plant-based goodness and Spanish tapas flair. Crispy potatoes, savory meatballs, and a smoky, spicy brava sauce create a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for sharing.
⏳ Yield & Time
Yield:4 servings
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time:
🍽 Ingredients
📖 Instructions
First, peel and dice 1.5 lbs of Yukon gold potatoes into 1-inch cubes. Try to keep them uniform for even cooking, which I always forget to do, haha.
In a large saucepan, cover the diced potatoes with cold water. Add a pinch of salt and bring to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium and simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. Be carefull not to overcook them, or you will end up with mashed potato bravas!
While the potatoes are boiling, prepare the smoked paprika plant-based meatballs. In a large bowl, combine 1 lb of plant-based ground meat, 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs (panko works great!), 1/4 cup of finely chopped onion, 2 cloves of minced garlic, 1 tablespoon of smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Mix all ingredients together well with your hands, but don't overmix!
Roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs, aiming for about 20-24 meatballs. Pro tip: wet your hands slightly to prevent the mixture from sticking.
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook, turning occasionally, until they are browned on all sides and heated through, about 8-10 minutes. Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set aside.
Once the potatoes are cooked, drain them well and return them to the saucepan. Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and a pinch of salt. Toss gently to coat. Arrange the potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet.
Bake the potatoes in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
While the potatoes are baking, prepare the brava sauce. In a separate saucepan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add 2 cloves of minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Add 1 (14-ounce) can of diced tomatoes, 1 tablespoon of tomato paste, 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon of sugar, 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper (or more, to taste), and a pinch of salt. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
To assemble the patatas bravas with smoked paprika plant-based meatballs, arrange the crispy potatoes on a serving platter. Top with the plant-based meatballs and drizzle generously with the brava sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!
📝 Notes
For a spicier brava sauce, add more cayenne pepper or a pinch of chili flakes.
If you don't have Yukon gold potatoes, you can use russet potatoes or red potatoes instead.