Batata Harra Recipe

Authentic Batata Harra recipe – a classic dish of Lebanese spicy potatoes. If you’re looking to bring the bold and vibrant flavors of Middle Eastern cuisine into your home, this is the perfect recipe for you. Batata Harra, which means "spicy potatoes" in Arabic.

It's a fantastic dish that brings a taste of Lebanon into your home. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish, enjoying it on its own, or experimenting with the variations, Batata Harra is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

It's a delicious side dish with potatoes that's easy to make and packed with flavor. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner, this step-by-step guide on how to make Batata Harra will help you create a dish that’s sure to impress. Let’s get started!

I hope you enjoy making and eating this authentic Batata Harra recipe as much as I do.

Jump to:

• More Such Recipes
• 📖 Recipe

What is Batata Harra?

Batata Harra, which translates to “spicy potatoes” in Arabic, is a traditional Lebanese side dish. It’s a delightful combination of crispy potatoes, aromatic spices, and fresh herbs. This dish is incredibly versatile and can be served as a side, a snack, or even a main course if you’re in the mood for something light yet satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Authentic Taste: This recipe brings the true flavors of Lebanon to your table.
• Simple Ingredients: You probably already have most of these ingredients in your kitchen.
• Vegan-Friendly: A great option for those following a plant-based diet.
• Quick and Easy: It takes less than an hour to prepare.

Ingredients for Batata Harra

To make Batata Harra, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 4 large potatoes: Russet or Yukon Gold are great choices.
• 3 tablespoons olive oil: For a rich flavor.
• 5 cloves of garlic, minced: Adds a delicious aroma. If you don't like to use fresh use onion powder and garlic powder mix. That also makes it taste good. If you don't use it you can skip it.
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander: For an earthy taste. I personally like to substitute it with crushed coriander seeds. It adds more flavour and texture.
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin: Provides a warm, smoky flavor.
• 1 teaspoon chili flakes: Adjust according to your spice tolerance.
• Salt and black pepper to taste: Enhances all the other flavors.
• ½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped: Adds freshness and a burst of color. I like to add some parsley too.
• Juice of 1 lemon: Balances the spiciness with a zesty touch.

How to Make Batata Harra

Follow these simple steps to make your own authentic Batata Harra.

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

• Heat a large pan over medium heat cook potatoes in salted water for 10 min.
• Drain the potatoes and cut them into bite size pieces.
• In a mixing bowl add a tablespoon oil along with salt to taste, toss the potatoes with the oil.

Step 2: Air Fry Potatoes

• Transfer the potato cubes into air fryer basket and air fry for 7-8 minutes at 200C until crispy and golden brown.

Step 3: Prepare Batata Harra Sauce

• Add olive oil, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, black pepper, chilli flakes(optional) lemon juice in a bowl and stir them well to combine.
• Batata harra sauce is ready. Pour this over crispy and hot potatoes.

Step 4: Finish with Herbs

• Add chopped cilantro on hot and crispy potatoes.
• Give everything a good stir, making sure the cilantro and olive oil mix are evenly distributed.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

• Transfer the spicy potatoes to a serving dish.
• Garnish with a bit more fresh cilantro if desired.
• Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Batata Harra while it is still hot and crispy.

Tips for Making the Perfect Batata Harra

• Choosing the Right Potatoes: I prefer using starchy potatoes like Russet for their crispiness. Waxy potatoes can work too, but they might not get as crispy.
• Adjusting the Spice Level: If you’re not a fan of too much heat, reduce the amount of chili flakes. Conversely, if you love spice, feel free to add more!
• Using Fresh Ingredients: Fresh cilantro make a huge difference in the flavor. Don’t skimp on these!

Variations of Batata Harra

If you want to experiment with the traditional Lebanese spicy potatoes, here are some delicious variations:

• Batata Harra with Sweet Potatoes: Substitute regular potatoes with sweet potatoes for a sweet and spicy twist.
• Cooking Batata Harra: Instead of Air frying you can deep fry the potatoes too. Or, roast the potatoes in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 25-30 minutes, tossing halfway through.
• Batata Harra with Chickpeas: Add a can of drained and rinsed chickpeas to the pan for a heartier dish.

Serving Suggestions for Batata Harra

Batata Harra can be served in a variety of ways:

• As a Side Dish: It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or fish.
• In a Wrap: Add it to a pita with some hummus and veggies for a delicious wrap.
• On Its Own: Enjoy it as a snack or a light meal with a dollop of garlic sauce or tahini.

Why Batata Harra is Healthy

This Middle Eastern dish is not only delicious but also quite healthy. Here’s why:

• Rich in Vitamins: Potatoes are a good source of Vitamin C and Vitamin B6.
• Low in Fat: When prepared with a moderate amount of olive oil, it’s relatively low in fat.
• High in Fiber: The potatoes provide a good amount of dietary fiber, which is beneficial for digestion.

Frequently Asked Questions about Batata Harra

1. Can I make Batata Harra in advance?

Yes, you can make Batata Harra ahead of time. It reheats well in the oven or on the stovetop. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container in the fridge.

2. Is Batata Harra gluten-free?

Absolutely! This recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.

3. Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

While fresh cilantro is ideal for its vibrant flavor, you can use dried herbs in a pinch. Use about 1 tablespoon of dried cilantro instead of fresh.

4. How long does Batata Harra last?

When stored properly in the fridge, Batata Harra can last for up to 3-4 days. Just reheat it before serving.

5. Can I make Batata Harra less spicy?

Of course! Simply reduce the amount of chili flakes to make it milder.

How to Store Batata Harra

1. Cool Completely: Before storing, let the Batata Harra cool completely to room temperature. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the potatoes soggy.

2. Use Airtight Containers: Transfer the cooled spicy potatoes to an airtight container. This will help maintain their freshness and prevent any odors from other foods in the fridge from affecting the flavor.

3. Refrigerate: Store the container in the refrigerator. Batata Harra will keep well in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

4. Freeze for Longer Storage: If you want to store Batata Harra for a longer period, you can freeze it. Place the potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.

How to Reheat Batata Harra

When it comes to reheating Batata Harra, you want to ensure that the potatoes retain their crispiness and flavor. Here are a few methods to reheat them effectively:

1. Oven Method (Recommended for Best Results)

• Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Arrange on a Baking Sheet: Place the potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This helps them reheat evenly and prevents sticking.
• Reheat: Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are heated through and crispy. Stir halfway through to ensure even heating.
• Garnish and Serve: Optionally, add a fresh squeeze of lemon juice and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro before serving to refresh the flavors.

2. Stovetop Method

• Heat a Pan: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of olive oil.
• Add Potatoes: Add the Batata Harra to the pan and spread them out in a single layer.
• Reheat: Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are hot and crispy.
• Freshen Up: You can add a little fresh cilantro and lemon juice at the end to revive the dish’s vibrant flavors.

3. Microwave Method (Quick but Less Crispy)

• Prepare for Reheating: Place the potatoes in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel. This helps to retain some moisture.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the potatoes are hot.
• Optional Crisping: If you prefer a crispier texture, you can then transfer the potatoes to a hot skillet for a quick 1-2 minute crisping.

Tips for Best Results

• Reheat Only What You Need: Reheating the entire batch multiple times can lead to loss of quality. Only reheat the portion you plan to eat.
• Avoid Overheating: Overheating can cause the potatoes to become dry or overcooked. Keep an eye on them during the reheating process.
• Refresh with Fresh Ingredients: Adding a touch of fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lemon juice after reheating can help revive the dish’s vibrant flavors.

Storing and reheating Batata Harra properly ensures that you can enjoy this delightful Lebanese spicy potatoes dish anytime, without compromising on taste or texture. Enjoy!

If you try this recipe, let me know how it turns out in the comments below! And don’t forget to share this post with your friends and family who might enjoy a delicious and spicy Lebanese treat.

More Such Recipes

1. Batata Vada
2. Herb Potato Salad Recipe (Healthier, No Mayo)
3. Spicy Roast Potatoes
4. Bombay Potatoes
5. Indian Masala Potato
6. Crispy Potato Snack
7. Aloo Katli Masala

If You like this recipe and made it Please rate the recipe. It helps us to reach more people. For the Latest updates Subscribe to Rekha's Whatsapp. You can follow me on Instagram, Facebook, Youtube, Pinterest for more food inspirations.

📖 Recipe