Name: Lebanese Spicy Potatoes – Batata Harra Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-491674H28M49S
Total time: PT-491674H28M49S
Cuisine: Lebanese
Ingredients: 2 lbs (1 kg) Yukon gold potatoes, 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; 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)

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Introduction

Lebanese Spicy Potatoes, or Batata Harra, are a deliciously bold and flavorful side dish. These crispy potatoes are coated with aromatic spices and fresh cilantro sauce, making them perfect to serve as an appetizer or alongside your favorite meal.

A white bowl filled with golden brown roasted potato chunks that have a crispy, slightly charred texture on the edges. The potatoes are cut into irregular round and cube shapes and are mixed with finely chopped green herbs scattered evenly over the top. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 lbs (1 kg) potatoes, 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 (for coating potatoes)
1 tsp garlic, minced
¼ tsp cayenne pepper
½ cup cilantro, chopped
½ tsp paprika (for sauce)
1 tsp lemon juice (or to taste)
2 Tbsp olive oil (for sauce)

Instructions

Step 1: Pat the potatoes dry with paper towels or a clean kitchen towel until completely dry. This helps achieve crispiness.
Step 2: In a medium bowl, mix onion powder, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Stir in 2 Tbsp olive oil to create a spice paste.
Step 3: Add the potatoes to the spice mixture and toss until they are fully coated.
Step 4: For air fryer: Lightly oil the air fryer basket using a paper towel or sprayer. Spread potatoes evenly in the basket. Air fry at 400°F for 18 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through at 9 minutes. If needed, cook an additional 2 minutes for extra crispiness. Transfer to a serving dish.
Step 5: For oven: Preheat the oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with foil and oil it lightly. Arrange potatoes in a single layer and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until golden and tender when tested with a toothpick. Transfer to a serving dish.
Step 6: Prepare the cilantro sauce by sautéing minced garlic in 2 Tbsp olive oil over medium heat until fragrant; avoid burning the garlic. Reduce heat to low, add cayenne pepper, then stir in chopped cilantro, paprika, and lemon juice. Remove from heat.
Step 7: Pour the cilantro garlic sauce over the cooked potatoes and toss gently to combine. Serve immediately as a spicy and aromatic side or appetizer.

Tips & Variations

Using Yukon Gold potatoes helps achieve a creamy interior while staying crispy outside, but you can use any waxy potato you prefer.
Adjust the cayenne pepper to control the heat level according to your taste.
For a vegan option, ensure your olive oil is extra virgin and unflavored.
Add a sprinkle of sumac or za’atar for an extra Middle Eastern flavor twist.

Storage

Store leftover spicy potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a preheated oven or air fryer at 350°F to regain crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it may make the potatoes soggy.

How to Serve

This image shows a white bowl filled with small, golden brown roasted potatoes that look crispy on the outside. The potatoes are cut into bite-sized pieces and spread out evenly in the bowl. Some green herbs are sprinkled on top, adding a hint of color. The texture of the potatoes looks crunchy with a soft inside. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as it uses only potatoes, spices, olive oil, and fresh herbs.

Can I prepare the cilantro sauce ahead of time?

You can prepare the cilantro sauce in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Reheat gently before tossing with the potatoes to maintain the fresh garlic flavor.