Oven-Roasted Bravas Sauce - From Market to Table
One big plus of shopping at the local markets is knowing the fruit and veg are grown nearby, often without heavy pesticides or preservatives – they’re fresh, seasonal, and full of real flavour. But because they haven't been treated to last long, they can spoil quickly. So I’ve made it a habit to plan meals around what I pick up that week – a kind of “market to recipe” routine that helps reduce food waste. In this recipe, we make good use of leftover tomatoes, red peppers, and onions – turning what might’ve gone to waste into: Oven-Roasted Bravas Sauce with Red Pepper
Ingredients:
1 small onion, peeled and quartered
2 garlic cloves, peeled
½ red bell pepper, seeded and chopped into large pieces
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon smoked paprika (pimentón de la Vera)
½ teaspoon hot paprika or chili powder (adjust to taste)
200 ml (about ¾ cup) ripe tomatoes (or passata)
1 teaspoon red wine vinegar or sherry vinegar
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional:
A ½ tea spoon of sugar
Splash of water if needed to adjust thickness
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
Place the onion, garlic, and red pepper on a baking tray. Drizzle with olive oil and toss well.
Roast for 25–30 minutes, or until the onion and pepper are soft and slightly charred, and the garlic is golden.
Transfer everything to a blender or food processor. Add the smoked paprika, hot paprika, tomatoesand vinegar.
Blend until smooth. Taste and season with salt and pepper..
For best flavor, pour into a small saucepan and simmer for 5–10 minutes on low heat to bring it all together.
Storage & Freezing
Fridge:
Store in an airtight jar or container.
Keeps well for up to 5 days.
Reheat gently in a saucepan or microwave, stirring well.
Freezer:
Let the sauce cool completely before freezing.
Freeze in:
Small containers
Ice cube trays (for single portions)
Zip-lock bags laid flat (space-saving!)
Keeps for up to 3 months.
To use: thaw overnight in the fridge or reheat straight from frozen in a pan.
Tip: Label with the date and portion size. Great to have a few spicy cubes ready when guests pop in!
What to Serve It With
The classic:
Patatas bravas – crispy oven-roasted or fried potatoes, served hot with this sauce spooned over and a dollop of aioli or mayo.
Also amazing with:
Grilled chicken skewers or wings
Roasted veggies like cauliflower or sweet potato
Pan-fried halloumi or tofu
Spread in wraps, sandwiches or a base sauce for sausage rolls
As a dip for crusty bread, fries, or croquettes
On grilled fish or shrimp for a smoky-spicy touch
As a sauce for pasta and lasagne
This sauce adds instant flair to even the simplest meal. Keep a few batches frozen and you're always ready to impress — no stress!
