Lebanese Spicy Potatoes – Batata Harra

Batata Harra is a beloved Lebanese spicy potatoes dish that brings a burst of flavor to your table. This crispy, aromatic side is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a family gathering or enjoying a casual meal. Its unique blend of spices and fresh herbs makes it a standout dish that complements various cuisines. Plus, it’s quick and easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this dish in no time.
• Flavorful and Spicy: The combination of garlic, cayenne, and paprika delivers a delicious kick that will tantalize your taste buds.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve Batata Harra as an appetizer, side dish, or part of a mezze platter—it’s sure to impress!
• Healthier Alternative: Made with minimal oil and packed with nutrients from potatoes and herbs, it’s a great addition to any meal.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: These crispy potatoes can be made ahead of time and reheated for quick meals throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To make Lebanese Spicy Potatoes – Batata Harra, you’ll need some essential tools in your kitchen. Having the right equipment not only simplifies the cooking process but also ensures consistent results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet or air fryer basket
• Mixing bowl
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet or air fryer basket: Essential for achieving that crispy texture; they allow hot air to circulate around the potatoes.
• Mixing bowl: A good mixing bowl helps combine spices evenly with the potatoes for maximum flavor absorption.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes cutting the potatoes into even cubes easy, ensuring they cook uniformly.
• Measuring spoons: Accurate measurements are key to balancing flavors in this recipe.

Ingredients

For the Potatoes

• 2 lbs potatoes (1 kg) preferably Yukon gold, cut into 1-inch cubes or baby potatoes

For the Spice Mix

• ¾ tsp onion powder
• ¼ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper powder
• ½ tsp paprika

For Coating

• 2 Tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic (minced)
• ¼ tsp cayenne pepper

For Garnish

• ½ cup cilantro (chopped)
• ½ tsp paprika
• 1 tsp lemon juice (or to taste)

How to Make Lebanese Spicy Potatoes – Batata Harra

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

1. Pat the 2 lbs potatoes dry with paper towels or a clean kitchen towel until they’re completely dry. This step is crucial for achieving crispiness.

Step 2: Create the Spice Mix

1. In a medium bowl, mix together ¾ tsp onion powder, ¼ tsp garlic powder, ½ tsp salt, ¼ tsp black pepper powder, and ½ tsp paprika.
2. Stir in 2 Tbsp olive oil to form a paste.

Step 3: Coat the Potatoes

1. Add the dried potato cubes to the spice mixture.
2. Toss until every surface is coated evenly with the spice paste.

Enjoy these flavorful Lebanese Spicy Potatoes – Batata Harra as a delicious side dish or appetizer!

How to Serve Lebanese Spicy Potatoes – Batata Harra

Lebanese Spicy Potatoes – Batata Harra are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. These crispy, flavorful potatoes are perfect for any occasion, whether as a snack or part of a larger meal. Here are some delightful serving suggestions.

As a Mezze Platter

• Serve batata harra alongside hummus, baba ghanoush, and tabbouleh for a vibrant Middle Eastern mezze platter that everyone will enjoy.

With Fresh Salad

• Pair the spicy potatoes with a refreshing cucumber and tomato salad drizzled with olive oil and lemon juice for a light and zesty complement.

In Pita Wraps

• Wrap batata harra in warm pita bread with fresh vegetables like lettuce, tomatoes, and onions for a tasty handheld meal.

Topped with Yogurt Sauce

• Drizzle or dollop a creamy yogurt sauce over the potatoes, enhanced with herbs like mint or dill to add creaminess and balance the spice.

As a Side Dish

• Serve these spicy potatoes as a side dish alongside grilled chicken or beef for a hearty and satisfying meal.

Garnished with Cilantro

• Sprinkle additional chopped cilantro on top before serving to enhance both flavor and presentation.

How to Perfect Lebanese Spicy Potatoes – Batata Harra

To achieve the best results for your batata harra, consider these helpful tips. Following these guidelines will ensure your potatoes turn out perfectly crispy and flavorful.

• Choose the right potatoes: Yukon gold or baby potatoes are ideal for achieving the perfect texture and flavor.

• Dry thoroughly: Make sure to pat the potatoes dry before seasoning; moisture can prevent them from becoming crispy.

• Uniform cubes: Cut the potatoes into even 1-inch cubes to ensure even cooking throughout.

• Don’t overcrowd: If using an air fryer or baking tray, avoid overcrowding to allow hot air to circulate around each potato piece evenly.

• Adjust spices: Feel free to tweak the spice levels according to your taste preferences by adding more cayenne pepper for extra heat.

• Serve immediately: For maximum crispiness, serve the batata harra right after cooking while they’re hot.

Best Side Dishes for Lebanese Spicy Potatoes – Batata Harra

Lebanese Spicy Potatoes – Batata Harra pair beautifully with many side dishes. Here are some fantastic options to create a complete meal.

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Marinated chicken skewers grilled to perfection complement the spicy flavors of batata harra beautifully.

2. Tabbouleh Salad: A refreshing salad made with parsley, tomatoes, and bulgur wheat adds brightness and freshness to your plate.

3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables offer sweetness and color that balance the spices in the potatoes.

4. Fattoush Salad: This vibrant salad features mixed greens and crispy pita chips tossed in a tangy dressing that pairs well with spicy dishes.

5. Stuffed Grape Leaves: Filled with rice, herbs, and spices, these bite-sized delights enhance any Middle Eastern meal experience.

6. Chickpea Stew: A hearty chickpea stew provides protein and complements the crispy texture of batata harra nicely.

7. Cucumber Yogurt Dip: This cool dip made from yogurt and cucumber is perfect for dipping or drizzling over the spicy potatoes.

8. Quinoa Pilaf: Fluffy quinoa mixed with herbs and spices serves as a nutritious base that absorbs wonderful flavors from accompanying dishes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Lebanese Spicy Potatoes – Batata Harra, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.

• Skipping the drying step: Not patting the potatoes dry can lead to soggy results. Always ensure they are completely dry before seasoning.
• Overcrowding the cooking space: Filling the air fryer or baking tray too much can cause uneven cooking. Cook in batches if necessary for crispy potatoes.
• Ignoring spice balance: Adding too much cayenne can overpower the dish. Start with less and adjust according to your heat preference.
• Not using fresh ingredients: Old or stale spices can dull flavors. Use fresh spices for maximum taste impact in your Batata Harra.
• Neglecting garnish: Skipping cilantro or lemon juice can make the dish less vibrant. Always finish with fresh herbs and a splash of lemon for brightness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Lebanese Spicy Potatoes – Batata Harra

• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They will last up to 2 months in the freezer.

Reheating Lebanese Spicy Potatoes – Batata Harra

• Oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 10 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through for even warming.
• Stovetop: Sauté in a pan over medium heat for about 5 minutes, adding a splash of oil if desired.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common queries about Lebanese Spicy Potatoes – Batata Harra.

How spicy is Lebanese Spicy Potatoes – Batata Harra?

The spice level depends on how much cayenne pepper you add. You can adjust it according to your taste preferences.

Can I use other types of potatoes?

Yes, while Yukon golds work best, you can use other varieties like red or white potatoes as well.

What should I serve with Lebanese Spicy Potatoes – Batata Harra?

These potatoes are great as part of a mezze platter, alongside salads or grilled meats.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! The recipe is already plant-based as it does not contain any animal-derived products.

How do I achieve extra crispiness?

Make sure your potatoes are well-dried before seasoning and avoid overcrowding when cooking.

Final Thoughts

Lebanese Spicy Potatoes – Batata Harra is a delightful dish that brings vibrant flavors and textures to any meal. It’s versatile enough to be served as an appetizer, side dish, or part of a larger feast. Feel free to customize this recipe by adjusting the spices or garnishes to suit your taste!

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Lebanese Spicy Potatoes – Batata Harra

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Approximately four servings 1x

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Description

Lebanese Spicy Potatoes – Batata Harra is a vibrant and aromatic dish that brings the flavors of the Middle East to your table. With crispy, golden-brown potatoes infused with a delightful mix of spices, this recipe is perfect for any occasion—whether served as an appetizer, a side dish, or part of a mezze platter. The combination of garlic, paprika, and cayenne adds a spicy kick that will excite your taste buds while remaining easy to prepare. Ideal for busy weeknights or meal prep, these flavorful potatoes are not only delicious but also healthy and satisfying.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 lbs Yukon gold potatoes, cut into 1-inch cubes
• ¾ tsp onion powder
• ¼ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp paprika
• 2 Tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp minced garlic
• ¼ tsp cayenne pepper
• Fresh cilantro and lemon juice for garnish

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) or prepare an air fryer.
2. Pat the potato cubes dry with paper towels until completely dry.
3. In a bowl, mix together onion powder, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Add olive oil to form a paste.
4. Coat potato cubes in the spice mixture until evenly coated.
5. Spread the potatoes on a baking sheet or in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
6. Bake for 25–30 minutes or air fry for about 20 minutes until golden and crispy, tossing halfway through.
7. Garnish with chopped cilantro and a drizzle of lemon juice before serving.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Baking/Air Frying
• Cuisine: Middle Eastern

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
• Calories: 205
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 300mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 0mg