Crispy Spiced Potatoes With Garlic & Cilantro
Batata harra — tender fried potatoes coated in garlicky, cilantro-forward spice and finished with a squeeze of fresh lemon. A Middle Eastern weeknight star that feels indulgent but takes under 20 minutes.
- Total time
- 20 min
- Servings
- 4
- Calories
- 285
- Protein
- 3g

Ingredients
- 1.5 lb potatoes, waxy (yukon gold or red), unpeeled
- ½ cup neutral cooking oil
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1 tsp cumin seeds (or ground cumin)
- 1 whole lemon (juiced)
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- 1
Cut potatoes into 1-inch cubes (leave skins on). Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high until shimmering.
- 2
Add potatoes. Fry for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and fork-tender inside.
- 3
Push potatoes to the pan's edge. Add garlic, red pepper flakes, and cumin to the center oil for 30 seconds.
- 4
Toss everything together until fragrant and coated. Remove from heat.
- 5
Stir in fresh cilantro and squeeze the lemon over the top. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- 6
Serve immediately in a shallow bowl or on a platter.
Tools you’ll need
- large skillet (12-inch cast iron or stainless steel preferred)
- cutting board
- sharp knife
- wooden spoon or spatula
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