Last Updated on September 24, 2023
Welcome to a culinary journey through the aromatic and vibrant flavors of Morocco! Today, we’re going to explore a simple yet delicious recipe – Moroccan Roast Potatoes. This dish is a delightful blend of earthy spices, crisp textures, and the comforting warmth of well-roasted potatoes. It’s an ideal side dish that adds an exotic twist to any meal, but it’s also hearty enough to stand on its own.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is easy to follow and sure to impress. So, let’s embark on this flavorful adventure and bring a taste of Morocco to your dining table!
What are Moroccan roast potatoes?
Moroccan roast potatoes are a popular dish in Moroccan cuisine that combines the humble potato with a variety of aromatic spices. Potatoes were introduced to Morocco during the Spanish occupation and have since become a staple ingredient in many dishes, including this one.
The roasting process caramelizes the potatoes, giving them a crispy exterior while keeping them soft and fluffy on the inside. The addition of spices such as cumin, paprika, and other spices gives the dish a warm, earthy flavor that is characteristic of Moroccan cuisine.
Why You’ll Love this Moroccan roast potatoes?
There are countless reasons to love Moroccan roast potatoes, but here are a few that stand out:
- Easy to make: This dish requires only a handful of ingredients and minimal preparation, making it perfect for novice cooks or those short on time.
- Versatile: While this dish is often served as a side dish, it can also be enjoyed as an appetizer or even a main course. It pairs well with a variety of other dishes and can be customized to suit individual tastes.
- Bursting with flavor: The combination of spices used in this dish creates an explosion of flavor that is both warm and comforting. It’s a great way to add some excitement to plain potatoes.
- Budget-friendly: Potatoes are inexpensive, making this dish an affordable option for those on a budget.
- Healthier alternative: Roasting the potatoes instead of frying them makes this dish a healthier option, as it uses less oil. The spices also add antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties to the dish.
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The Ingredients
- Potatoes: The star of the dish, potatoes provide a hearty and satisfying base. They absorb the flavors of the spices well while their starchy, earthy flavor balances the boldness of the other ingredients. Roasting brings out their natural sweetness and gives them a lovely crispy texture.
- Lemon Juice: This brings a burst of freshness and acidity to the dish. It helps to balance out the richness of the olive oil and the warmth of the spices, giving the dish a bright, zesty undertone that’s characteristic of many Moroccan dishes.
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: This is used for roasting the potatoes, giving them a beautiful golden color and a crispy exterior. Extra virgin olive oil also has a distinct flavor that contributes to the overall taste of the dish.
- Garlic: Garlic adds a depth of flavor that complements the other ingredients perfectly. Its pungent, slightly sweet flavor when roasted is key in bringing all the flavors together and infusing the potatoes with an irresistible aroma.
- Cumin: A common spice in Moroccan cuisine, cumin lends a warm, earthy flavor with a hint of both sweetness and bitterness. It’s crucial in achieving the authentic Moroccan flavor in the roast potatoes.
Black Pepper: It gives the dish a gentle heat and enhances the flavors of the other ingredients. Its sharp, slightly spicy taste adds another layer of complexity to the dish.- Turmeric: Turmeric adds a beautiful golden color to the potatoes and has a warm, subtle flavor. It’s also known for its health benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties.
- Salt: An essential ingredient in any savory dish, salt enhances the natural flavors of the potatoes and the other spices. It helps to bring out the individual notes of each ingredient, creating a well-balanced flavor profile.
- Paprika: Paprika adds a sweet-smoky flavor and a vibrant color to the dish. It pairs well with the other spices, contributing to the rich and multi-layered taste of the Moroccan Roast Potatoes.
- Vegeta Chicken or Vegetable Stock Powder: This acts as a flavor enhancer, adding a savory depth to the dish. It complements the natural flavors of the potatoes and helps to intensify the taste of the spices.
- Harissa Paste: If you want to add a spicy kick to your potatoes, Harissa Paste is the perfect ingredient. This North African chili paste brings heat and complexity, enhancing the dish’s exotic flavor profile.
Step by Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes
Peel and cut the potatoes into evenly sized hunks. Rinse them well under cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel.
Step 3: Season the Potatoes
In a large mixing bowl, combine the potatoes with all the spices, lemon juice, and olive oil. Use your hands to mix everything thoroughly, ensuring that every potato is well coated with the mixture.
Step 4: Roast the Potatoes
Spread the seasoned potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Place them in the preheated oven for 30 to 40 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Once done, take the potatoes out of the oven and serve them hot as a side dish or appetizer. You can also enjoy them as a main course with a fresh salad on the side.
Notes
- For a vegetarian/vegan version, simply replace the chicken or vegetable stock powder with a good-quality vegetable bouillon.
- For an extra crispy texture, try tossing the potatoes in cornstarch before roasting them.
- If you can’t find harissa paste, you can use any other chili paste as a substitute.
- Make sure to use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor.
- You can customize the spice blend to your liking by adding or reducing the amount of spices used.
Nutrition Information
How to store Moroccan roast potatoes?
Moroccan roast potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them on a baking sheet and warm them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) until heated through.
For longer storage, you can freeze the roasted potatoes by placing them in a ziplock bag or freezer-safe container. They can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months and reheated in the oven at 375°F (190°C) until crispy and heated through.
To prevent the potatoes from sticking together when stored, you can layer them between sheets of parchment paper or foil before freezing.
Variations
- For a spicier version, add more harissa paste or include some fresh chili peppers in the spice mix.
- You can also add other vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, or carrots to the roasting pan for added flavor and nutrition.
- For a heartier meal, you can top the roasted potatoes with a fried egg or add some cooked chickpeas to the mix before roasting.
- To make this dish gluten-free, use a gluten-free stock powder and ensure that all other ingredients are free from gluten-containing additives.
Ingredients
- 4 lbs /2 kg potatoes peeled and quartered
- 2/3 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- 1 tsp vegetable chicken or vegetable stock powder
- 2 large lemons
- 10 cloves of garlic minced
- 4 tsp of Harissa paste
- 2 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp turmeric
- 2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp paprika
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Prepare the potatoes by peeling and cutting them into even pieces. Rinse and pat dry.
- Season the potatoes in a large bowl with spices, lemon juice, and olive oil. Mix well to coat all potatoes evenly.
- Spread the seasoned potatoes on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes until they’re golden and crispy.
- Serve hot as a side dish or main course with a fresh salad on the side.
Notes
- For a vegetarian/vegan version, simply replace the chicken or vegetable stock powder with a good-quality vegetable bouillon.
- For an extra crispy texture, try tossing the potatoes in cornstarch before roasting them.
- If you can’t find harissa paste, you can use any other chili paste as a substitute.
- Make sure to use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor.
- You can customize the spice blend to your liking by adding or reducing the amount of spices used.
Nutrition
FAQs
What type of potatoes should I use for this recipe?
Any variety of potatoes can be used for this recipe. However, Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes are often recommended because they have a higher starch content, which makes them perfect for roasting as they become crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside.
Can I make this dish less spicy?
Yes, you can control the level of spice in this dish. If you’re not a fan of spicy food, feel free to omit the Harissa paste. The dish will still be flavorful with the other spices and ingredients.
How long should I roast the potatoes?
Roasting time can vary depending on the size of your potato pieces and your oven’s exact temperature. Usually, it takes about 45 minutes to an hour at 400°F (200°C). The key is to roast them until they’re golden brown crispy on the outside, and tender on the inside.
Wrapping Up
In conclusion, Moroccan Roasted Potatoes are a delightful side dish that can elevate any meal with their unique blend of flavors. The combination of earthy potatoes, tangy lemon, rich olive oil, and an array of spices creates a taste sensation that is both comforting and exotic. Whether you’re serving them with grilled meats, fish, or roasted veggies, these potatoes are sure to impress.
They’re not just a dish, but a culinary journey to North Africa right from your kitchen. Enjoy the process of making them and savor every flavorful bite!
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Lori Walker is a passionate dietitian and food lover. She offers simple and nutritious recipes that don't take long to cook. In addition to sharing delicious dishes, she also shares useful advice on saving time and money in the kitchen. She believes that with a bit of creativity, anyone can make healthy meals that won't break the bank. Read more
