Description
Spicy Lebanese Potatoes are a flavorful Middle Eastern side dish featuring roasted baby potatoes tossed in a smoky, garlicky, and tangy sauce. Infused with cumin, paprika, cayenne, and fresh herbs, these crispy potatoes deliver a perfect blend of spice and freshness, making them ideal alongside grilled meats or as part of a mezze platter.
Ingredients
Scale
Potatoes
- 2 pounds baby potatoes or Yukon gold potatoes, cut into bite-sized pieces
Spices & Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Sauce & Garnish
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1/2 cup water
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro or parsley
- 1 tablespoon fresh mint, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Potatoes: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
- Toss Potatoes with Spices: In a large bowl, combine the potatoes with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, black pepper, cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Toss thoroughly ensuring every piece is evenly coated with the spice mixture.
- Roast the Potatoes: Spread the seasoned potatoes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, flipping them halfway through cooking to ensure even browning. The potatoes should turn golden and crisp on the outside, while remaining tender inside.
- Prepare Garlic Tomato Sauce: While the potatoes roast, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a small pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, taking care not to burn it. Stir in the tomato paste and water, cooking for 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Finish Sauce: Remove the pan from heat and stir in the fresh lemon juice. This brightens the sauce, adding a zesty flavor that complements the spices and roasted potatoes.
- Toss Potatoes with Sauce: Once the potatoes are done roasting, transfer them to a serving bowl. Pour the warm garlic tomato sauce over the potatoes and toss gently to coat them evenly with the flavorful sauce.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the chopped fresh cilantro or parsley over the potatoes, and add fresh mint if using, for an aromatic finish. Serve the spicy Lebanese potatoes warm as a delicious side dish or part of a mezze spread.
Notes
- Adjust cayenne pepper according to your preferred spice level for milder or hotter potatoes.
- For extra crispy potatoes, ensure they are spread out and not crowded on the baking sheet during roasting.
- These potatoes pair wonderfully with grilled meats such as lamb or chicken, or can be served alongside other Middle Eastern appetizers in a mezze platter.
- Using baby potatoes helps them cook evenly and get a crisp exterior, but Yukon gold potatoes are a good alternative if baby potatoes are unavailable.
