Loaded Batata Harra

Batata Harra is a classic Lebanese dish which is packed with a perfect amount of crisp and spice. It's usually served as a refreshing side dish but was a super hit main meal for us. I was wondering how to use the frozen mince mix I had reserved from Taco night and suddenly potatoes came to mind. I just want to add that potatoes are always a good idea. We've been eating bland gym meals during the week to keep us on track in this current 'work from home' world and I was excited to create something different and flavourful. I used Taco seasoning in the mince and corn mixture and was worried that the distinct flavours wouldn't tie in nicely but it worked like a charm. In fact I'll be sure to use Taco seasoning in the mince the next time I make this.

Serves: 2

Ready in: 40 minutes 
Difficulty: ★☆☆

Ingredients 

200g beef mince, cooked (See notes)
2 large potatoes, cubed
1/4 cup pinenuts

4 tbsp olive oil
3 and 1/2 tbsp lemon juice
1 large garlic clove, grated
1 bunch coriander, chopped
1 bunch parsley, chopped
1 tsp chilli flakes
1/2 tsp sugar
Salt to taste 

Method

Wash cubed potatoes under cold water to reduce starch. Once washed, place potatoes in a saucepan and boil for 7-10 minutes. Once the potatoes are half cooked, drain using a colander and leave to dry for a few minutes.

Preheat oven to 200 degrees celsius and line a large baking tray with baking paper. Place the dried potatoes on the tray and coat with 2 tbsp olive oil and salt. Place in the oven for 30-40 minutes or until golden and crispy.

In a bowl add remaining olive oil, lemon juice, crushed garlic, chopped coriander, parsley, chilli flakes and sugar. Stir to combine and set aside. 

Heat a pan over medium heat and toast pine nuts until fragrant and golden. Add to mince mix and set aside. 

Remove potatoes from oven and place in a bowl. Pour prepared dressing over the potatoes and toss lightly to combine. Top potatoes with mince and pine nut mixture and stir to combine. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately. 

Notes

Cook beef mince in seasoning of your choice. I used Taco seasoning as the mince was used for a different recipe but this is up to your preference.

Leave space between the potatoes while roasting as keeping them close together will generate moisture and cause potatoes to boil instead of roast.

Taste the dressing as you go and adjust ingredients to your preference. Salt is not included in the dressing as the potatoes are generously coated prior to roasting.

Potato dressing is for coating potatoes only, drain excess liquid that pools in the bottom of the dish to avoid soggy potatoes.