Description
Lebanese Spicy Potatoes, known as Batata Harra, are a flavorful and vibrant roasted potato dish featuring crispy golden potatoes tossed with garlic, crushed red pepper, and fresh cilantro. This easy-to-make recipe delivers a perfect balance of spicy, tangy, and herby notes, making it a delicious side dish for any meal.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 8 medium gold potatoes, peeled and cut into cubes
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for roasting)
Garlic & Spice Mixture
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 teaspoons crushed red pepper (divided)
- 1 cup chopped cilantro (divided)
For Serving
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Potatoes: Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C) and line a sheet pan with parchment paper. Spread the cubed potatoes in a single layer on the pan, drizzle with 1 tablespoon olive oil, and sprinkle with salt.
- Roast the Potatoes: Roast the potatoes for about 30 minutes until they turn golden brown and crisp, flipping them halfway through the cooking time to ensure even roasting.
- Prepare Garlic and Spice Mixture: While the potatoes roast, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a small pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, 1 teaspoon of crushed red pepper, and half of the chopped cilantro. Sauté for about 2 minutes until the garlic becomes golden and fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Toss Potatoes with Garlic Mixture: Once the potatoes are roasted, transfer them into a large bowl or back onto the baking sheet. Pour the garlic and spice mixture over the potatoes, then toss to combine thoroughly. Add the remaining crushed red pepper and cilantro, mixing well.
- Serve: Serve the Batata Harra hot or warm with fresh lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the top, adding a bright tangy finish.
Notes
- For spicier potatoes, increase the crushed red pepper to taste.
- You can substitute gold potatoes with Yukon or red potatoes for a different texture.
- Make sure to cut the potatoes into similar-sized cubes to ensure even cooking.
- The dish is best served fresh but can be reheated in the oven to maintain crispiness.
- Optionally garnish with additional fresh herbs like parsley for variation.
