The first time I made these Crispy Smashed Potatoes with Garlic and Za’atar, the intoxicating aroma of Middle Eastern spices filled my kitchen, bringing back memories of bustling spice markets and family gatherings. After a decade of perfecting this recipe, I’m excited to share my signature version that transforms humble potatoes into an extraordinary side dish that bridges cultures and flavors.
Key Takeaways | Middle Eastern Potato Recipes
- Master the technique for achieving perfectly crispy potato exteriors
- Learn the authentic way to use za’atar in potato dishes
- Discover the secret to infusing garlic flavor without burning
- Explore variations and serving suggestions
- Perfect your timing for maximum crispiness
- Understanding the role of different potato varieties
Table of Contents
The Magic of Za’atar Spiced Dishes | Crispy Smashed Potatoes
Za’atar, a beloved Middle Eastern spice blend, transforms ordinary potatoes into something magical. The combination of thyme, sumac, sesame seeds, and other aromatics creates a symphony of flavors that perfectly complements the crispy potato texture.
Why This Recipe Works | Garlic Roasted Potatoes
The success of this dish lies in its contrasts: crispy exteriors with creamy interiors, sharp garlic against earthy za’atar, and the perfect balance of salt and herbs. Every element plays a crucial role in creating this memorable side dish.
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Results
For the Base | Easy Vegetarian Side Dishes:
- 2 pounds baby Yukon Gold potatoes
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 8 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons za’atar
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh herbs for garnish
For the Za’atar Garlic Oil:
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons za’atar
- 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Pinch of sea salt
Kitchen Equipment Essentials
Basic Tools:
- Large baking sheet
- Potato masher or flat-bottomed glass
- Heavy-bottomed pot for boiling
- Colander
- Pastry brush
- Small mixing bowl
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Baking sheet | Even heat distribution for crispy results |
| Potato masher | Creates perfect cracks for crisping |
| Pastry brush | Even oil distribution |
| Colander | Proper draining for optimal texture |
The Art of Preparation | Crispy Smashed Potatoes
Perfect Boiling Technique
- Start with cold water
- Add 1 tablespoon salt
- Cook until just tender (12-15 minutes)
- Drain thoroughly
- Let steam dry for 5 minutes
The Smashing Method
- Space potatoes evenly on baking sheet
- Press gently but firmly
- Create craggy edges for maximum crispiness
- Brush with olive oil mixture
- Season generously
The Za’atar Magic | Za’atar Spiced Dishes
Creating the Perfect Za’atar Oil
- Warm olive oil gently
- Add minced garlic
- Stir in za’atar
- Let infuse for 5 minutes
- Strain if desired
Roasting to Perfection | Garlic Roasted Potatoes
Temperature and timing are crucial:
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C)
- Roast for 20 minutes
- Flip carefully
- Roast additional 15-20 minutes
- Brush with za’atar oil
Troubleshooting Common Issues
| Issue | Solution |
|---|---|
| Not crispy enough | Ensure potatoes are completely dry before roasting |
| Burning garlic | Add garlic halfway through roasting |
| Uneven cooking | Choose similarly sized potatoes |
| Za’atar falling off | Press spices gently into potatoes before roasting |
Creative Variations | Middle Eastern Potato Recipes
Regional Inspirations:
- Lebanese style with sumac and pine nuts
- Turkish inspired with Aleppo pepper
- Greek variation with oregano and lemon
- Moroccan twist with ras el hanout
Expert Tips from a Decade of Experience
- Choose the right potato variety
- Don’t skip the drying step
- Be generous with oil
- Season at every stage
- Let potatoes cool slightly before smashing
Perfect Pairings | Easy Vegetarian Side Dishes
Serve your crispy potatoes with:
- Grilled lamb chops
- Roasted chicken
- Mediterranean salads
- Hummus and tahini sauce
- Yogurt-based dips
Storage and Reheating
To maintain crispiness:
- Store in single layer
- Reheat at 375°F
- Avoid microwave
- Add fresh za’atar after reheating
Seasonal Adaptations
Summer Version:
- Add fresh herbs
- Serve with cooling yogurt sauce
- Incorporate lemon zest
Winter Version:
- Add root vegetables
- Use more warming spices
- Serve with hearty proteins
Nutritional Benefits
| Component | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Za’atar | Rich in antioxidants |
| Potatoes | Good source of potassium |
| Olive oil | Heart-healthy fats |
| Garlic | Immune-boosting properties |
This Crispy Smashed Potatoes with Garlic and Za’atar recipe represents the perfect fusion of Middle Eastern flavors with classic comfort food. It’s a testament to how traditional recipes can evolve while maintaining their soul-warming appeal.
Remember, the key to perfect crispy smashed potatoes lies in patience, attention to detail, and quality ingredients. Don’t rush the process – each step contributes to the final result. Whether you’re making these for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner, these potatoes are sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
Crispy Smashed Potatoes with Garlic and Za’atar: Where East Meets West
Equipment
- Large baking sheet
Ingredients
For the Base:
- 2 pounds baby Yukon Gold potatoes
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 8 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons za’atar
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh herbs for garnish
For the Za’atar Garlic Oil:
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons za’atar
- 4 cloves garlic finely minced
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Pinch of sea salt
Instructions
Step 1: Boil the Potatoes
- Place potatoes in a pot and cover with cold water.
- Add 1 tablespoon salt and bring to a boil.
- Cook until just tender (12-15 minutes).
- Drain thoroughly and let steam dry for 5 minutes.
Step 2: Smash the Potatoes
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Arrange potatoes on a baking sheet, leaving space between them.
- Use a potato masher or glass to gently press each potato until flattened but still intact.
- Brush with olive oil, season with salt, pepper, and za’atar.
Step 3: Prepare Za’atar Garlic Oil
- Warm ¼ cup olive oil in a small pan over low heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute).
- Stir in za’atar and red pepper flakes, let infuse for 5 minutes.
- Remove from heat and strain if desired.
Step 4: Roast to Perfection
- Place baking sheet in the oven and roast for 20 minutes.
- Carefully flip potatoes and roast for an additional 15-20 minutes until crispy.
- Brush with za’atar oil before serving.
- Garnish with fresh herbs and serve hot.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, let the boiled potatoes dry completely before smashing.
- To prevent burnt garlic, add minced garlic halfway through roasting instead of at the start.
- Potato variety matters! Yukon Gold potatoes yield the best creamy interior with crispy edges.
- Za’atar sticking tip: Gently press the spice blend into the potatoes after brushing with oil.
Nutrition
Can I use a different type of potato for this recipe?
Yes! While baby Yukon Gold potatoes work best for their creamy interior and crispy exterior, you can also use red potatoes or fingerling potatoes. Just ensure they are small and cook them until fork-tender before smashing.
How do I keep the garlic from burning in the oven?
Garlic can burn quickly at high temperatures. To avoid this, either:
Add minced garlic halfway through roasting instead of at the start.
Use garlic-infused olive oil (like in the za’atar oil) instead of fresh garlic on the potatoes.
What can I substitute for za’atar if I don’t have it?
If you don’t have za’atar, try making a simple blend using:
1 teaspoon dried thyme
½ teaspoon ground sumac (or lemon zest for tanginess)
½ teaspoon toasted sesame seeds
A pinch of oregano and salt
Can I make these potatoes ahead of time?
Yes! You can boil and smash the potatoes up to 24 hours in advance. Store them covered in the fridge. When ready to serve, brush with oil, season, and roast until crispy. Reheat leftovers in the oven at 375°F for 10 minutes to maintain crispiness.
I LOVE IT
I absolutely love Panera Bread’s Chicken Salad! It’s the perfect blend of fresh ingredients and delicious flavors. The chicken is always tender and well-seasoned, and the combination of crisp celery, crunchy pecans, and sweet grapes creates a perfect balance of textures and tastes. The creamy dressing ties everything together beautifully without being too heavy.
Whether I have it on a sandwich, with a side salad, or just by itself, it never disappoints. It’s a great option for a light yet satisfying meal. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a refreshing and tasty chicken salad.
source : https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/213492/smashed-potatoes/