Spicy Batata Harra Roasted Potatoes with Yogurt Drizzle

There’s something undeniably satisfying about a perfectly roasted potato—crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with flavor.

Today, we’re elevating that humble staple with a bold twist straight from the heart of Lebanon: our Spicy Batata Harra Roasted Potatoes with Yogurt Drizzle.

Inspired by the legendary street food dish batata harra, this recipe is transformed with the help of RoboFood’s Batata Harra Seasoning, a vibrant blend of chili, garlic, coriander, and paprika that brings the sun-kissed heat of Beirut directly to your oven.

Whether you’re serving these as a fiery side or topping them with a cooling herb yogurt to balance the spice, one bite will transport you to a bustling Lebanese souk.

Why This Batata Harra Recipe Stands Out

Most roasted potato recipes are content with rosemary, salt, and maybe a garlic butter dunk.

But we’re chasing bolder flavors—ones that dance on the edge of heat and aromatic brightness.

Batata harra literally translates to “spicy potatoes,” and in Lebanon, it’s a beloved meze dish served in cafes and homes alike.

Traditionally, it features pan-fried potatoes tossed with a sauté of garlic, green chilies, and fresh herbs, often finished with a squeeze of lemon and a sprinkle of parsley.

Our version keeps that spirit alive, but we’ve optimized it for the home cook using an oven-roasting method that ensures even crispiness with minimal oil and cleanup.

Plus, we’re cutting the prep time with RoboFood’s Batata Harra Seasoning, a perfectly balanced spice blend that captures the authentic essence of the dish without requiring you to source a dozen ingredients.

Just one spoonful brings warmth, depth, and a smoky tang that’s impossible to resist.

Key Ingredients and Their Roles

Let’s break down what’s in this recipe and why each component is essential to achieving that authentic batata harra experience.

Potatoes

We recommend using Yukon Gold potatoes for this recipe.

Their creamy texture holds up well during roasting, and they develop a buttery interior that contrasts beautifully with the crispy edges.

You can also use Russets for a fluffier center, or red potatoes for a waxy bite.

Whichever variety you choose, aim for medium-sized tubers to ensure even cooking.

RoboFood Batata Harra Seasoning

This is the star of the show.

The blend includes crushed red chili, smoked paprika, garlic powder, ground coriander, cumin, and lemon powder—all harmonized to deliver that signature Lebanese zing.

Unlike makeshift spice mixes you might toss together from your pantry, this seasoning has the right chili-to-garlic ratio to ignite your taste buds without overwhelming them.

Plus, it’s seasoned with a hint of salt for convenience and depth.

Extra-Virgin Olive Oil

A high-quality olive oil isn’t just for fat—it’s for flavor.

Use a Lebanese or Greek extra-virgin olive oil with fruity, peppery notes to complement the bold spices.

It helps the seasoning adhere to the potatoes and promotes caramelization during roasting.

Fresh Parsley and Lemon

No batata harra is complete without a bright finish.

Fresh parsley adds a herbal lift, while a squeeze of lemon juice cuts through the richness and amplifies the zesty profile.

These ingredients are non-negotiable—they keep the dish from feeling heavy, no matter how spicy it gets.

Optional: Garlic Cloves (Whole or Minced)

While the seasoning blend contains garlic powder, adding fresh garlic takes the dish to the next level.

Toss whole cloves with the potatoes while roasting, then squeeze out the soft, caramelized garlic inside afterward for a rich, savory surprise.

How to Make Batata Harra Roasted Potatoes

Roasting these spicy potatoes is simple, but a few techniques ensure maximum texture and flavor.

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). High heat is essential for crispy exteriors.
2. Wash and cube the potatoes into 1.5-inch pieces. There’s no need to peel them—leaving the skin on adds rustic texture and nutrients.
3. Dry the potatoes thoroughly. Excess moisture is the enemy of crispiness. Pat them with a clean kitchen towel or let them air-dry for 10 minutes after rinsing.
4. Toss the potatoes in a large bowl with 3 tablespoons of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of RoboFood Batata Harra Seasoning. Adjust the amount of seasoning based on your heat tolerance and the size of your potato batch.
5. Spread in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Crowding causes steaming—so use two trays if needed.
6. Roast for 25 minutes, then flip the potatoes using a spatula. Add whole garlic cloves at this stage if using.
7. Continue roasting for another 15–20 minutes, until golden brown and crispy on the edges.
8. Finish with finely chopped parsley and a generous squeeze of fresh lemon juice. Serve immediately.

Yogurt Drizzle: The Perfect Cooling Companion

To balance the fire of the batata harra, we serve these potatoes with a lemon-herb yogurt drizzle.

This isn’t just an add-on—it’s a vital contrast that completes the dish.

The cool, tangy yogurt tames the heat while doubling down on Middle Eastern flavors.

Here’s how to make it:

• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (full-fat preferred)
• Zest and juice of half a lemon
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint
• 1 tablespoon chopped dill
• 1 small garlic clove, grated (optional)
• Pinch of salt

Mix all ingredients in a bowl and chill for at least 20 minutes before serving.

This allows the flavors to meld.

Drizzle generously over the hot potatoes or serve on the side for dipping.

Ways to Serve Batata Harra Potatoes

While delicious on their own, these spicy roasted potatoes shine when incorporated into larger meals.

Here are some creative serving ideas:

• As a meze platter star: Pair with hummus, baba ganoush, kofta, and olives for a Lebanese-inspired appetizer spread.
• Over grain bowls: Serve on top of couscous or bulgur pilaf with grilled chicken, pickled onions, and tahini sauce.
• With grilled meats: The spicy kick cuts through rich proteins like lamb chops or beef kebabs perfectly.
• As a breakfast side: Top with a fried egg and a sprinkle of sumac for a spicy, satisfying morning dish.
• As a topping for salads: Toss warm batata harra over a chopped cucumber, tomato, and parsley salad for added texture and warmth.

Tips for Maximum Flavor and Crispiness

• Don’t skip the drying step: Moist potatoes steam instead of crisp. After washing, blot them dry with a towel.
• Use enough oil: Too little oil leads to dry, bland potatoes. The oil carries the seasoning and promotes browning.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Spread potatoes in a single layer. Overlapping pieces steam and won’t crisp properly.
• Flip halfway: This ensures even browning on all sides.
• Season after roasting: For extra punch, sprinkle a pinch of Batata Harra Seasoning after roasting while the potatoes are still hot.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers (rare, but possible), store the potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and warm in a 400°F oven for 10–12 minutes to restore crispiness.

Avoid the microwave—it makes them soggy.

Variations to Try

Once you master the base recipe, get creative:

• Vegan version: Skip the yogurt drizzle or use a plant-based alternative mixed with lemon and herbs.
• Spice level: Add fresh chopped jalapeños or a splash of chili oil for extra heat.
• Add harissa: Mix a teaspoon of harissa paste into the oil before tossing with potatoes for a deeper North African twist.
• Roasted vegetables: Toss carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini with the same seasoning for a spicy vegetable medley.

This Spicy Batata Harra Roasted Potatoes with Yogurt Drizzle recipe is a celebration of bold, authentic flavors made easy.

With RoboFood’s Batata Harra Seasoning, you’re not just cooking—you’re experiencing a taste of Lebanon, one fiery, crispy bite at a time.

Serve it at your next dinner party, enjoy it as a weeknight side, or savor it straight from the pan like we do—because some flavors are too good to wait for.