Lebanese Spicy Potatoes (Batata Harra)

Batata Harra, or Lebanese Spicy Potatoes, is a delightful dish bursting with flavor. This spicy potatoes side dish is not only easy to prepare but also serves as a perfect accompaniment to mezze or grilled meats. The unique blend of spices and herbs makes it a standout addition to any meal, ensuring that it will impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of garlic, cilantro, and red pepper creates a vibrant taste that excites the palate.
• Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep time and 35 minutes in the oven, you can whip up this delicious side dish without a fuss.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve Batata Harra at gatherings alongside other mezze or paired with grilled meats for a complete meal.
• Healthy Ingredients: Made with wholesome potatoes and fresh herbs, this dish is not only tasty but also nutritious.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a festive celebration, these spicy potatoes fit right in.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Small pan
• Mixing spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides even heat distribution for roasting the potatoes to achieve that perfect golden crispiness.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier after roasting.
• Small pan: Ideal for sautéing garlic and spices, enhancing their flavors before mixing them with the roasted potatoes.

Ingredients

Batata Harra is a Lebanese spicy potatoes side dish that’s full of flavor. Easy to make and perfect to serve as part of a mezze or with grilled meat dishes!

For the Potatoes

• 8 medium gold potatoes, peeled and cut into cubes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 teaspoons crushed red pepper, divided
• 1 cup chopped cilantro, divided

For Garnish

• Lemon wedges, for serving

How to Make Lebanese Spicy Potatoes (Batata Harra)

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 450°F (232°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: Roast the Potatoes

Place the potatoes on the baking sheet in one layer. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and season with salt. Roast until golden brown and crisp, about 30 minutes. Flip halfway through for even cooking.

Step 3: Prepare the Garlic Mixture

While the potatoes roast, heat the remaining 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 until the garlic turns golden brown, about 2 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Once the potatoes are roasted, transfer the garlic mixture on top of them. Toss well with the remaining cilantro and crushed red pepper flakes for added spice.

Step 5: Serve

Serve hot or warm with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the top if desired. Enjoy your flavorful Lebanese Spicy Potatoes!

How to Serve Lebanese Spicy Potatoes (Batata Harra)

Lebanese Spicy Potatoes, or Batata Harra, are a versatile dish that can complement various meals. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

As Part of a Mezze Platter

• Incorporate Batata Harra into a mezze platter filled with hummus, baba ghanoush, and tabbouleh for an authentic Lebanese spread.

With Grilled Meats

• Serve these spicy potatoes alongside grilled meats like shawarma or kebabs. The flavors of the potatoes pair beautifully with the smoky taste of the meat.

Topped with Yogurt Sauce

• Drizzle a cooling yogurt sauce over the potatoes. This adds a creamy contrast to the spiciness and enhances the overall flavor profile.

With Fresh Salad

• Pair with a fresh salad, such as a cucumber and tomato salad. The crispness of the veggies balances the heat of the potatoes.

As an Appetizer

• Present Batata Harra as an appetizer at gatherings. Guests will love this flavorful bite-sized treat that packs a punch.

Garnished with Extra Cilantro

• For added freshness, sprinkle extra chopped cilantro on top before serving. It brightens up the dish and adds color to your plate.

How to Perfect Lebanese Spicy Potatoes (Batata Harra)

To ensure your Batata Harra turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:

• Choose the right potatoes: Use medium gold potatoes for their creamy texture when roasted, which complements the spices well.

• Mind the oil: Ensure even roasting by using enough olive oil to coat all potato pieces without making them greasy.

• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Spread potatoes in a single layer on the baking sheet for optimal crispiness; overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of roasting.

• Adjust spice levels: Feel free to modify the amount of crushed red pepper according to your heat preference. Start with less if you’re unsure!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and cilantro will elevate your dish’s flavor significantly compared to dried versions.

• Finish with lemon juice: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving brightens flavors and adds a zesty kick.

Best Side Dishes for Lebanese Spicy Potatoes (Batata Harra)

Lebanese Spicy Potatoes make an excellent addition to any meal. Here are some side dishes that pair wonderfully with them:

1. Fattoush Salad: A vibrant salad made with mixed greens, tomatoes, radishes, and crispy pita chips tossed in a tangy dressing.

2. Tabbouleh: A refreshing parsley salad that includes bulgur wheat, tomatoes, mint, and lemon juice—perfect for cutting through spice.

3. Baba Ghanoush: Creamy roasted eggplant dip that provides a smoky flavor contrast to spicy potatoes.

4. Grilled Halloumi Cheese: Salty grilled cheese that adds texture and richness alongside your spicy potatoes.

5. Stuffed Grape Leaves (Dolmas): These savory rolls filled with rice and herbs complement Batata Harra’s bold flavors beautifully.

6. Spiced Chickpeas: Roasted chickpeas seasoned with spices offer protein-rich crunchiness that pairs well with soft potatoes.

7. Pita Bread: Serve warm pita bread for scooping up both Batata Harra and dips—ideal for casual dining!

8. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables drizzled with olive oil; their natural sweetness balances out the spice in Batata Harra.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Lebanese Spicy Potatoes (Batata Harra) can be straightforward, but there are common pitfalls to watch for.

• Using the wrong potato type: Not all potatoes are created equal. For best results, use gold potatoes which have a creamy texture that complements this dish.

• Overcrowding the baking sheet: Placing too many potatoes on the sheet can lead to steaming instead of roasting. Make sure they are in a single layer for that perfect crispiness.

• Skipping the seasoning: Neglecting to season your potatoes before roasting can result in bland flavors. Don’t forget the salt and spices for deliciously spicy potatoes!

• Not flipping the potatoes: Failing to turn the potatoes halfway through cooking can cause uneven browning. Flip them at 15 minutes for even crispiness.

• Ignoring freshness of herbs: Using wilted cilantro can affect the dish’s flavor. Always choose fresh herbs for vibrant taste and presentation.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Duration: Store Lebanese Spicy Potatoes (Batata Harra) in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Container: Use an airtight container to keep them fresh and prevent drying out.

Freezing Lebanese Spicy Potatoes (Batata Harra)

• Duration: You can freeze Batata Harra for up to 3 months.
• Container: Use freezer-safe bags or containers, ensuring as much air as possible is removed.

Reheating Lebanese Spicy Potatoes (Batata Harra)

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. This method helps retain crispiness.

• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 1 minute at medium power, checking frequently. This may soften the texture.

• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot. This method can help revive some crispness.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Batata Harra?

Batata Harra is a popular Lebanese dish made from spicy roasted potatoes often served as a side or part of a mezze platter.

How do I make Batata Harra less spicy?

To reduce spiciness, simply use less crushed red pepper during cooking or omit it altogether. You can also balance it with more herbs.

Can I customize my Lebanese Spicy Potatoes?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other spices like cumin or paprika, or mix in vegetables like bell peppers for added flavor and color.

What dishes pair well with Batata Harra?

Lebanese Spicy Potatoes complement grilled meats, kebabs, or even serve beautifully on their own as part of a mezze spread.

Final Thoughts

Lebanese Spicy Potatoes (Batata Harra) are not just flavorful but also incredibly versatile. They make an excellent side dish at any gathering or a delightful addition to your weekly meals. Feel free to customize with your favorite spices or herbs, and enjoy this delicious recipe!

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Batata Harra

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• Author: Alexia
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 4 servings 1x

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Description

Batata Harra, or Lebanese Spicy Potatoes, is a vibrant and flavorful side dish that brings a delightful kick to any meal. With its unique combination of garlic, cilantro, and crushed red pepper, this dish is sure to excite your taste buds. Easy to prepare and ready in under an hour, Batata Harra pairs perfectly with mezze platters or grilled meats, making it a versatile addition to casual family dinners or festive gatherings. The wholesome ingredients ensure that you’re not just enjoying great flavor but also nourishing your body. Impress your guests with this zesty dish that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 8 medium gold potatoes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 garlic cloves
• 2 teaspoons crushed red pepper
• 1 cup chopped cilantro
• Lemon wedges (for serving)

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 450°F (232°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Toss peeled and cubed potatoes on the baking sheet with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and salt; roast for about 30 minutes until golden brown.
3. While potatoes roast, heat remaining olive oil in a small pan over medium heat, then sauté minced garlic, 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper, and half of the cilantro until fragrant.
4. Once potatoes are crispy, combine them with the garlic mixture and toss with remaining cilantro and red pepper.
5. Serve hot with lemon wedges for added zest.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Lebanese

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 300mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 0mg