Batata Harra, or Lebanese spicy potatoes, are a delightful and flavorful dish that can elevate any meal. Perfect for gatherings, these crispy, spicy potatoes are not only easy to prepare but also packed with bold flavors from garlic, chili, and fresh cilantro. Whether served as a vegetarian appetizer, a side dish, or part of a mezze platter, this recipe will impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this dish in no time.
- Flavor-Packed: The combination of spices and fresh herbs creates a vibrant taste that will leave everyone craving more.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy Batata Harra as an appetizer, side dish, or part of a larger meal; it fits any occasion.
- Healthy Choice: Made with wholesome ingredients and baked or air-fried for a lighter option.
- Customizable Heat: Adjust the spice level by varying the amount of cayenne pepper to suit your preference.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather the necessary tools to make your cooking experience seamless.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking sheet or air fryer basket
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking sheet: Ensures even cooking and crispiness when roasting potatoes in the oven.
- Mixing bowl: Provides ample space for combining spices with potatoes thoroughly.
- Knife and cutting board: Essential for cutting potatoes into uniform sizes for consistent cooking.
Ingredients
For this vibrant Lebanese Spicy Potatoes – Batata Harra recipe, you will need:
For the Potatoes
- 2 lbs potatoes (1 kg) preferably Yukon gold, cut into 1-inch cubes or baby potatoes
- ¾ tsp onion powder
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- 2 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic, minced
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper
- 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
Pat the 2 lbs of potatoes dry with paper towels or a clean kitchen towel until they are completely dry. This is an important step to ensure crispiness.
Step 2: Mix Spices
In a medium bowl, mix together the following:
1. ¾ tsp onion powder
2. ¼ tsp garlic powder
3. ½ tsp salt
4. ¼ tsp black pepper powder
5. ½ tsp paprika
Stir in 2 Tbsp of olive oil to make a paste.
Step 3: Coat the Potatoes
Add the prepared potatoes to the spice mixture. Toss gently until every surface is coated evenly with the flavorful paste.
Step 4: Cook
You can either roast these in the oven or use an air fryer:
– For Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Spread the coated potatoes on a baking sheet in a single layer and roast for about 18 minutes or until golden brown.
– For Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer according to manufacturer’s instructions. Place the coated potatoes in the basket and cook at 400°F (200°C) for around 15-18 minutes, shaking halfway through.
Enjoy your delicious Lebanese Spicy Potatoes – Batata Harra hot from the oven or air fryer!
How to Serve Lebanese Spicy Potatoes – Batata Harra
Lebanese spicy potatoes, or batata harra, are versatile and can be served in many delightful ways. Whether as a standalone dish or part of a larger meal, these crispy, flavorful potatoes will impress your guests.
As Part of a Mezze Platter
- Serve batata harra alongside hummus, baba ghanoush, and tabbouleh for a vibrant spread that showcases Middle Eastern flavors.
With Fresh Salad
- Pair with a simple cucumber and tomato salad drizzled with lemon juice and olive oil. The freshness complements the spiciness of the potatoes beautifully.
In a Wrap
- Use batata harra as a filling in pita bread with tahini sauce and fresh veggies for a satisfying wrap that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.
Topped with Yogurt Sauce
- Drizzle some tangy yogurt sauce over the spicy potatoes. The creaminess balances the heat and adds depth to the dish.
As a Side to Grilled Meats
- Serve alongside grilled chicken, beef, or lamb for a hearty meal. The spices in the potatoes enhance the flavors of the meat.
Garnished with Fresh Herbs
- Finish off your serving with additional chopped cilantro or parsley sprinkled on top for an extra touch of freshness and color.
How to Perfect Lebanese Spicy Potatoes – Batata Harra
To achieve the best results when making Lebanese spicy potatoes, follow these helpful tips for perfect flavor and texture.
- Choose the right potatoes: Yukon gold or baby potatoes work best due to their creamy texture and ability to hold their shape when cooked.
- Ensure they’re dry: Patting the potatoes dry before seasoning helps them crisp up nicely during cooking.
- Use high-quality olive oil: A good quality olive oil enhances flavor and helps achieve that desired crispy exterior.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Give the potatoes enough space while cooking in the air fryer or oven so they can brown evenly.
- Adjust spice levels: Feel free to tweak cayenne pepper according to your preference for spice; you can even omit it if you prefer milder flavors.
- Let them cool slightly before serving: This allows them to firm up even more, giving you that perfect crunch when you bite in.
Best Side Dishes for Lebanese Spicy Potatoes – Batata Harra
Pairing your batata harra with complementary side dishes will elevate your meal experience. Here are some excellent options:
- Tabbouleh: A fresh salad made with parsley, mint, tomatoes, and bulgur wheat. It’s light and refreshing next to spicy potatoes.
- Hummus: Creamy chickpea dip flavored with tahini and lemon. It adds richness that balances out the heat from the potatoes.
- Fattoush Salad: A colorful salad featuring mixed greens and toasted pita chips. The crunch adds another layer of texture.
- Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant grilled until tender make for a deliciously smoky side.
- Roasted Chickpeas: Crispy chickpeas seasoned with spices offer extra protein and crunch alongside the potatoes.
- Stuffed Grape Leaves (Dolmas): These flavorful bites filled with rice and herbs provide an excellent contrasting taste.
- Lentil Soup: A warm bowl of lentil soup is comforting and pairs well with the crispy texture of batata harra.
- Cucumber Yogurt Salad: Creamy yogurt mixed with cucumber offers a cool counterpart to spicy flavors, enhancing every bite.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Lebanese Spicy Potatoes – Batata Harra, avoid these common pitfalls for the best results.
- Using wet potatoes: Make sure to pat the potatoes dry. Moisture can prevent them from getting crispy.
- Skipping the spice mix: Don’t forget to coat your potatoes evenly with the spice paste. An even coating ensures a burst of flavor in every bite.
- Overcrowding the cooking space: Whether using an air fryer or oven, leave space between the potatoes. This will help them crisp up nicely instead of steaming.
- Not adjusting seasoning: Taste and adjust spices before cooking. Everyone’s preference for spice varies, so feel free to tweak it!
- Ignoring garnishes: Don’t skip the fresh cilantro and lemon juice! They elevate the dish and add a fresh burst of flavor.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Allow the potatoes to cool completely before sealing.
Freezing Lebanese Spicy Potatoes – Batata Harra
- Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container.
- Best consumed within 1 month for optimal taste.
Reheating Lebanese Spicy Potatoes – Batata Harra
- Oven: Preheat to 400°F (200°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, stirring occasionally. This may not keep them crispy.
- Stovetop: Sauté in a little olive oil over medium heat until warmed through and crispy again.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Lebanese Spicy Potatoes – Batata Harra?
Lebanese Spicy Potatoes – Batata Harra are spicy, crispy potatoes seasoned with garlic, chili, and cilantro, making them a delicious side dish or appetizer.
Can I make Batata Harra in advance?
Yes, you can prepare them ahead of time. Just store them properly in the refrigerator or freezer as outlined above.
How do I customize Lebanese Spicy Potatoes – Batata Harra?
Feel free to add different spices like cumin or coriander for extra flavor. You can also adjust the heat level by adding more or less cayenne pepper.
Are there any alternatives for the ingredients?
Yes! You can use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes. The spices can also be adjusted according to your preference.
What should I serve with Batata Harra?
These spicy potatoes pair perfectly with a variety of dips such as hummus or tahini sauce, along with other mezze items like salads and grilled vegetables.
Final Thoughts
Lebanese Spicy Potatoes – Batata Harra are not only flavorful but also versatile enough to fit into any meal. They make an excellent vegetarian option that everyone can enjoy. Feel free to customize them with your favorite spices or serve alongside different dishes for a delightful experience!
Lebanese Spicy Potatoes – Batata Harra
Lebanese Spicy Potatoes, known as Batata Harra, are a vibrant and irresistible dish that brings the bold flavors of the Middle East to your table. With crispy cubes of potato seasoned with garlic, spices, and fresh cilantro, this dish is perfect for any occasion—whether as a standalone appetizer or part of a larger mezze platter. Easy to prepare and customizable to your spice preference, Batata Harra is not only delicious but also a healthier choice when baked or air-fried. Serve them hot and watch as they quickly disappear from your plate!
- Total Time: 28 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 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 (optional)
- ½ cup chopped cilantro
- 1 tsp lemon juice
Instructions
- Pat potatoes dry to ensure crispiness.
- In a bowl, mix onion powder, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, paprika, and olive oil to form a paste.
- Coat potatoes in the spice mixture until evenly covered.
- Cook in an oven preheated to 425°F for about 18 minutes or in an air fryer at 400°F for 15-18 minutes until golden brown.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking/Frying
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Adjust cayenne pepper based on your heat preference. Pair with dips like hummus or serve alongside grilled chicken or lamb for a complete meal.