Batata Harra (Lebanese Spicy Potatoes)

8 servings
40 min

Batata Harra translates to "spicy potatoes" in Arabic. These Arabic potatoes are oven roasted and then tossed in spicy cilantro garlic and crushed red pepper sauce. You can finish this flavor-packed sauce with a squeeze of lemons for a fresh flavor.

A large bowl of garnished potatoes.

Looking for a Mediterranean twist on roasted potatoes side dish? Enjoy this delicious Lebanese potato recipe. This recipe does not require any unique ingredients; I am willing to bet most ingredients are already in your kitchen.


Lebanese batata harra is a spicy potato dish that transforms a simple potato dish into a flavorful side dish. It is a mouthwatering dish tossed with delicious spice, garlic, and cilantro sauce.


Packed with fresh herbs, warm spices, and a deep garlic flavor, Lebanese potatoes have plenty of earthy flavors. For a little more brightness, add a splash of lemon juice.


These vegan, gluten-free spicy potatoes are versatile, delicious, and quick to make. You only need 25 minutes or less to prepare these Middle Eastern potatoes. Oven roast them, top them with an herb sauce, and serve!



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What is Batata Harra?

Popular as a Middle Eastern dish, Batata Harra translates to "spicy potatoes" in Arabic. These Arabic potatoes are roasted until they are tender. Then the potatoes are tossed in spicy cilantro garlic and crushed red pepper sauce. You can finish this flavor-packed sauce with a squeeze of fresh lemons.


This traditional Lebanese recipe is perfect for serving as part of a mezze, tabbouleh, muhammara, and hummus. Although this Lebanese potato recipe is usually served as an appetizer, it is delightful any time of the day.


These potatoes with peppers are similar to Spanish tapa patatas bravas, deep fried and smothered in a delectable spicy sauce. If you haven't tried batata harra yet, you are in for a treat!

Bowl of potatoes with a wooden spoon.


Garnished bowl of spicy potatoes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you Make Batata Harra Ahead of Time? Yes, you can. However, making them beforehand will cause the potatoes to lose some crispiness.


How Do I Store Batata Harra? All the potatoes to cool to room temperature. Then place them in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for 1-2 days.


How Spicy are These Potatoes? In this Lebanese potato recipe, the spice level is mild and balanced. You can adjust the spice to your desire by adding more or less red pepper flakes.


What Are the Best Potatoes To Use With This Recipe? Yukon gold potatoes are perfect for this recipe; they are creamy, fluffy and hold the sauce very well. They also have a golden color that looks beautiful on a plate. This is the kind of potato I used in the pictures. Russet potatoes also work great with this recipe.

Do I Have to Use Crushed Red Pepper Flakes? You can use your favorite spices, including red chili flakes, cayenne pepper, Aleppo pepper, or chipotle.


Recipe

Batata Harra (Lebanese Spicy Potatoes)
Recipe details
  • 8  servings
  • Prep time: 10 Minutes Cook time: 30 Minutes Total time: 40 min
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Ingredients

  • ▢ 6 large yukon gold or russet potatoes
  • ▢ 1/2 cup red onion, diced
  • ▢ 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
  • ▢ 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • ▢ 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • ▢ 2 teaspoons crushed red pepper flakes
  • ▢ 1 large lemon, squeezed
  • ▢ 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves
  • ▢ 1 cup fresh parsley leaves
  • ▢ salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions

Prep: Preheat oven to 425. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Wash the potatoes and pat them dry with paper towels. Cut the potatoes into 1-inch cubes. Dice one-half of a red onion.
Bake: In a medium-sized bowl, toss the potatoes and onion in olive oil and salt. Arrange the potato cubes and red onion in a single layer on the sheet pan. Oven roast the potatoes for 20-30 minutes, flipping once mid-way through. Cook the potatoes until they are golden brown and easily pierced with a fork.
Sauce: Preheat olive oil in a small saucepan over medium heat until the oil begins to shimmer. Sauté the minced garlic for one minute. Add the crushed red pepper flakes and saute for an additional minute. Add half of the fresh cilantro leaves and the lemon juice. Saute for two minutes. Set aside.
Combine: In a large bowl, toss the potatoes and sauce together, evenly coating the potatoes. Before serving, top with the other half of the cilantro and fresh parsley leaves. Serve with lemon wedges if desired.
Tips
  • For a crispier potato use an air fryer instead of oven roasting.
  • Storing: Allow the potatoes to cool to room temperature. Then place them in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for 1-2 days.
  • If you want to use more traditional Middle Eastern spices, check out my Essential Middle Eastern Spice Guide.
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