Zatar Roast Potatoes
Roast Potatoes with Zatar
These roast potatoes with zatar are crispy on the outside, soft and fluffy on the inside, and full of flavour thanks to the zatar seasoning. The combination of garlic, lemon, and olive oil gives them an irresistible taste.
Ingredients:
1 kg (2 lbs) potatoes (preferably Maris Piper), peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes or wedges
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons zatar (store-bought or homemade)
1 teaspoon garlic powder (or 2 cloves garlic, minced)
1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional, for extra brightness)
Salt, to taste
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (optional, for finishing)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
2. Prepare the Potatoes
Peel the potatoes and cut them into roughly 1-inch cubes or wedges. You can also leave the skins on if you prefer a more rustic dish.
Place the potatoes in a large pot of salted water and bring it to a boil. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, just until they start to soften. They should be slightly tender but not fully cooked. Drain the potatoes well and let them sit for a minute or two to dry off.
3. Season the Potatoes
While the potatoes are drying, combine the olive oil, zatar, garlic powder (or minced garlic), lemon zest (optional), salt, and black pepper in a large bowl.
Add the partially cooked potatoes to the bowl and toss them well to coat with the seasoning mixture. The olive oil helps the zatar and spices stick to the potatoes while also giving them a crispy texture during roasting.
4. Roast the Potatoes
Spread the seasoned potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Be sure to give them enough space so they roast evenly and don’t steam.
Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden brown and crispy on the edges. Halfway through the cooking time, flip the potatoes to ensure they cook evenly.
5. Finishing Touches
Once the potatoes are crispy and golden, remove them from the oven. Optional: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the potatoes for an added burst of brightness.
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of colour and extra freshness.
6. Serve
Serve the Zatar roast potatoes hot as a side dish to your favourite main course or Sunday roast.
Tips:
Extra Crispy Potatoes: For extra crispy potatoes, you can toss the drained potatoes in a little cornflour or bicarbonate of soda before seasoning them. This will give them an even crispier finish when roasted.
Zatar Variations: If you want to add a little extra depth, feel free to mix in a pinch of cumin or smoked paprika to the zatar seasoning. You can also add a bit of chili flakes for some heat.
Zatar Roast Potatoes are a simple yet flavourful dish that takes your classic roast potatoes to the next level. The zatar adds an aromatic, herby flavour, and the crispy, golden potatoes make for the perfect accompaniment to just about any meal. Enjoy!