Are you ready to spice up your dinner table with a dish that bursts with flavor and warmth? Look no further than Batata Harra, the beloved Lebanese spicy potatoes that will tantalize your taste buds and leave your guests begging for more! This vibrant dish, featuring perfectly crispy potatoes infused with aromatic spices and fresh cilantro, is not only a feast for the senses but also a breeze to prepare. With just 30 minutes from prep to plate, you'll discover why this recipe has become a staple in kitchens around the world. Dive into the world of Lebanese cuisine and unlock the secrets to making these irresistible spicy potatoes!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Lebanese
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 medium potatoes, cubed
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Wash and peel the potatoes, then cut them into uniform 1-inch cubes to ensure even cooking.
- Rinse the potato cubes in cold water to remove excess starch, then pat them completely dry using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.
- Heat olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat until it shimmers and is hot but not smoking.
- Carefully add the potato cubes to the hot oil in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded. This will help achieve a crispy exterior.
- Cook the potatoes without stirring for 4-5 minutes to develop a golden-brown crust on the bottom.
- Gently turn the potatoes using a spatula to brown evenly on all sides, continuing to cook for another 10-12 minutes.
- Mince the garlic cloves finely and prepare the chopped fresh cilantro.
- When potatoes are golden and crisp, reduce heat to medium and add minced garlic, cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper, and salt.
- Stir quickly to coat the potatoes with spices and prevent garlic from burning, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes.
- Remove from heat and immediately sprinkle with fresh chopped cilantro, tossing to distribute evenly.
- Transfer to a serving plate and serve hot as a side dish or appetizer, garnishing with additional cilantro if desired.
Tips
- Choose the Right Potatoes: For the best texture, use starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds. They crisp up beautifully and absorb the spices well.
- Get Your Oil Hot: Ensure your olive oil is hot before adding the potatoes. This helps to create that coveted crispy exterior. You can test the oil by dropping in a small piece of potato; if it sizzles, you’re ready to go!
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook the potatoes in batches if necessary. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of frying, resulting in soggy potatoes.
- Pat Dry: After rinsing the cubed potatoes, make sure to dry them thoroughly. Excess moisture can prevent them from getting crispy.
- Adjust the Heat: Keep an eye on the heat while cooking. If the potatoes are browning too quickly, reduce the heat to ensure they cook evenly without burning.
- Spice It Up: Feel free to adjust the spice levels according to your taste. If you love heat, add more cayenne or even a pinch of chili flakes.
- Garnish Generously: Don’t skimp on the fresh cilantro! It adds a refreshing touch that balances the spices beautifully. Consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice for an extra zing.
- Serve Immediately: For the best texture and flavor, serve Batata Harra hot right after cooking. They are perfect as a side dish or a flavorful appetizer.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 227kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
