Lebanese Spicy Potatoes – Batata Harra

Batata Harra, or Lebanese Spicy Potatoes, is a delightful dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Lebanon right to your table. This recipe features crispy potatoes packed with spices, garlic, and fresh cilantro. Ideal for gatherings, this dish shines as an appetizer, a side dish, or as part of a mezze platter. Its unique flavor profile and versatility make it a standout choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can whip up this delicious dish quickly.
• Flavorful: The combination of spices creates a mouthwatering taste that everyone will enjoy.
• Versatile: Perfect as a side dish, appetizer, or part of a larger meal; it fits into any dining experience.
• Healthy Option: Made with fresh ingredients and minimal oil, it’s a guilt-free indulgence.
• Customizable: Adjust the spice levels to suit your taste by adding more cayenne or other seasonings.

Tools and Preparation

For making Lebanese Spicy Potatoes – Batata Harra, having the right tools makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for roasting potatoes for crispiness.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining spices and ensuring even coating on the potatoes.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures precise cutting of potatoes into uniform cubes for even cooking.

Ingredients

To create these delicious Lebanese Spicy Potatoes – Batata Harra, gather the following 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
• 2 Tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic (minced)
• ¼ tsp cayenne pepper

For Garnishing:

• 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 are completely dry. This is an important step to achieve crispiness.

Step 2: Make the Spice Mixture

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 of the potatoes is evenly coated in the spice paste.

This simple yet flavorful recipe will surely impress your guests and family alike! Enjoy your Lebanese Spicy Potatoes – Batata Harra as part of any meal or on their own as a tasty snack.

How to Serve Lebanese Spicy Potatoes – Batata Harra

Lebanese Spicy Potatoes, or Batata Harra, are versatile and can be served in various ways. Whether as a starter at a gathering or a delightful side dish for a family meal, these crispy potatoes will surely please everyone.

As an Appetizer

• Serve with a tangy yogurt dip to balance the spice.
• Pair with fresh pita bread for a delightful texture combination.

In a Mezze Platter

• Include alongside hummus and tabbouleh for an authentic Middle Eastern experience.
• Add olives and stuffed grape leaves to enhance the variety of flavors.

With Grilled Meats

• Complement grilled chicken or beef skewers for a hearty meal.
• Serve alongside lamb chops for a flavorful contrast.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish with extra cilantro or parsley for added freshness.
• Drizzle with lemon juice just before serving to elevate the flavors.

How to Perfect Lebanese Spicy Potatoes – Batata Harra

Achieving the perfect batch of Batata Harra requires attention to detail. Follow these tips to enhance your cooking skills and make this dish unforgettable.

• Use dry potatoes: Patting potatoes dry ensures they crisp up nicely during cooking.
• Choose the right spices: Fresh spices add more flavor than older ones; check their freshness before using.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Allowing space between potatoes helps them roast evenly and become crispy.
• Adjust spice levels: Feel free to modify the amount of cayenne pepper based on your heat preference.
• Experiment with herbs: Try adding other herbs like mint or dill for different flavor profiles.
• Serve immediately: For the best texture, serve Batata Harra right after cooking while they are still hot and crispy.

Best Side Dishes for Lebanese Spicy Potatoes – Batata Harra

Pairing Lebanese Spicy Potatoes with complementary side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Tabbouleh: A refreshing salad made from parsley, tomatoes, and bulgur, it adds brightness to the meal.
2. Hummus: This creamy chickpea dip provides a smooth contrast to the spiciness of Batata Harra.
3. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Flavorful marinated chicken adds heartiness and pairs beautifully with potatoes.
4. Fattoush Salad: A crispy vegetable salad featuring toasted pita bread offers crunch and acidity.
5. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted in olive oil can bring extra color and nutrients to your plate.
6. Cucumber Yogurt Salad: This cool, creamy side helps balance the heat from the spicy potatoes.
7. Stuffed Grape Leaves (Dolma): These flavorful rolls provide another layer of taste and texture within your meal.
8. Lentil Soup: A warm soup can act as a comforting companion to your spicy potatoes, enhancing overall satisfaction.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Lebanese Spicy Potatoes – Batata Harra turn out perfect, avoid these common mistakes.

• Boldly skip drying the potatoes – Not drying the potatoes thoroughly can lead to soggy results. Pat them dry with paper towels for the best crispiness.
• Boldly overlook seasoning – Skipping spice measurements can dull the flavors. Follow the recipe closely for a deliciously spicy bite.
• Boldly overcrowd the cooking tray – Placing too many potatoes at once restricts air flow and reduces crispiness. Cook in batches if necessary.
• Boldly ignore cooking times – Cooking for too long can burn the potatoes, while undercooking leaves them mushy. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes.
• Boldly skip fresh herbs – Forgetting to add cilantro will miss out on fresh flavor. Toss it in just before serving for optimal taste.
• 

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best taste and texture.

Freezing Lebanese Spicy Potatoes – Batata Harra

• Place cooled potatoes in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Lebanese Spicy Potatoes – Batata Harra

• Oven – Preheat to 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 10 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave – Heat in short intervals (30 seconds) until warm, but may lose crispiness.
• Stovetop – Sauté in a pan over medium heat with a little olive oil until hot and crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Lebanese Spicy Potatoes – Batata Harra?

Lebanese Spicy Potatoes – Batata Harra are crispy cubes of potato seasoned with spices like garlic and paprika, offering a delightful kick.

Can I make Lebanese Spicy Potatoes – Batata Harra in an air fryer?

Yes! An air fryer is perfect for making this dish crispy without excess oil. Follow the same preparation steps and adjust cooking time as needed.

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

These spicy potatoes pair well with dips like hummus or tzatziki and are great alongside grilled meats or as part of a mezze platter.

How do I customize the spice level?

You can adjust the amount of cayenne pepper based on your preference. For milder flavors, reduce or omit it altogether.

Final Thoughts

Lebanese Spicy Potatoes – Batata Harra make a fantastic addition to any meal, whether as an appetizer or side dish. Their versatility allows for customization by adding different herbs or spices. Try this easy recipe and enjoy these flavorful, crispy delights!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Lebanese Spicy Potatoes – Batata Harra

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• Author: Aileen
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x

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Description

Experience the vibrant flavors of Lebanese cuisine with these delicious Lebanese Spicy Potatoes, also known as Batata Harra. This recipe features crispy potato cubes seasoned with a tantalizing blend of spices, garlic, and fresh herbs. Perfect for any occasion, whether served as an appetizer, part of a mezze platter, or alongside grilled meats, these spicy potatoes are sure to impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds. Simple to prepare and customizable to your spice preference, they are a healthy option made with fresh ingredients and minimal oil. Enjoy these flavorful bites that bring a burst of Middle Eastern flair to your table.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 lbs Yukon gold potatoes (1 kg), 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, lemon juice for garnish

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Instructions

1. Pat the potato cubes dry with paper towels to ensure crispiness.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine onion powder, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, paprika, and olive oil to create a spice paste.
3. Toss the dried potato cubes in the spice mixture until evenly coated.
4. Spread the coated potatoes on a baking sheet or air fryer basket.
5. Roast in the oven at 425°F (220°C) for about 30 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Garnish with chopped cilantro and a drizzle of lemon juice before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Lebanese

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 180
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 320mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 26g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 0mg