Lebanese Spicy Potatoes (Batata Harra)

Lebanese Spicy Potatoes, also known as Batata Harra, is a popular Middle Eastern side dish made with crispy potatoes tossed in garlic, chili, lemon, and fresh parsley. The name “Batata Harra” literally means “spicy potatoes,” and this dish is known for its bold, zesty flavor and crispy texture.

This dish is commonly served as part of a mezze platter in Lebanese cuisine and pairs perfectly with grilled meats, chicken, pita bread, and dips like hummus or garlic sauce.

Batata Harra is simple to make but incredibly flavorful thanks to garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and chili flakes that coat the crispy potatoes.

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What Is Batata Harra?

Batata Harra is a traditional Lebanese dish made from fried or roasted potatoes mixed with garlic, chili, coriander, parsley, and lemon juice. It is usually served as a side dish or part of a mezze spread.

The key to authentic Batata Harra is crispy potatoes and a strong garlic-lemon flavor with a little heat.

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Ingredients

• 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon ground coriander (optional but traditional)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Optional: diced red bell pepper

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Instructions

1. Cook the Potatoes
   Boil diced potatoes for 5 minutes until slightly tender, then drain and dry.
2. Fry or Roast
   Fry potatoes in a pan with olive oil or roast in the oven at 425°F (220°C) for 25–30 minutes until crispy.
3. Make the Garlic Chili Oil
   In a pan, heat olive oil, then add garlic, chili flakes, paprika, and coriander. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Toss Everything Together
   Add crispy potatoes to the pan and toss to coat in the garlic chili oil.
5. Finish with Lemon and Parsley
   Turn off heat and add lemon juice and fresh parsley. Mix and serve.

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Tips for Crispy Batata Harra

Dry the Potatoes Well
Water makes potatoes soft instead of crispy.

Don’t Overcrowd the Pan
This helps them crisp instead of steam.

Add Garlic at the End
Garlic burns quickly, so cook briefly.

Use Lemon Juice at the End
This keeps the flavor fresh and bright.

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What to Serve with Batata Harra

Batata Harra is often served with:

• Shish Tawook
• Lebanese Kafta
• Grilled chicken
• Pita bread
• Hummus
• Garlic sauce
• Fattoush salad

It’s perfect as part of a mezze platter or as a side dish with grilled meats.

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Storage and Reheating

Refrigerator: Store for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Reheat in a pan or oven to keep potatoes crispy.

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Final Thoughts

Lebanese Spicy Potatoes (Batata Harra) is a simple but incredibly flavorful dish that combines crispy potatoes with garlic, chili, lemon, and fresh herbs. It’s one of the most popular Lebanese side dishes and is often served with grilled meats, wraps, or mezze platters.

If you love bold flavors and crispy potatoes, this Batata Harra recipe is a must-try. It’s easy, affordable, and packed with flavor.