I couldn’t wait to share this recipe with you because these Moroccan roasted potatoes turned out to be one of the most flavorful dishes I’ve made recently. After combining aromatic spices with crispy, golden-brown potatoes, I felt like I’d discovered the perfect side dish.
It’s both simple to make and naturally gluten-free, which makes it an instant crowd-pleaser. The blend of paprika, cumin, and garlic transformed my humble potatoes, and I know it’ll elevate yours too.
If you’re a fan of bold, earthy flavors, you’ll love this recipe just as much as I did. You can also pair them with creamy Jamaican shrimp rasta pasta for a satisfying meal option.
Ingredients for Moroccan Roasted Potatoes
To create this flavorful Moroccan-inspired side dish, you’ll need the following ingredients. Each item plays a vital role in building the rich taste and texture.
- 1 kg potatoes (around 7 medium-sized): You can use any variety of potatoes, peeled or unpeeled, depending on your preference.
- Juice of 1 lemon (4-5 tablespoons): Adds brightness and balances out the spices beautifully.
- 3-4 tablespoons olive oil: Helps achieve that perfect crisp texture while preventing them from sticking.
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder (or fresh minced garlic): Infuses the potatoes with a savory and aromatic depth.
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder: A must-have for a warm, earthy Moroccan flavor.
- 1 teaspoon paprika (sweet or spicy): Adds a smoky touch, with the option to adjust the heat level to your liking.
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper: Enhances the spices and lends a subtle heat.
- 2 vegetable bouillon cubes, crumbled: These intensify the robust flavors in the dish.
- Salt to taste
- Chopped cilantro for garnishing.
Note: This recipe yields approximately 4-5 servings.
Variations to Customize Your Potatoes
Feel free to customize this recipe based on your dietary needs or flavor preferences. Here are some great variations:
- Make it spicy: Add 1-2 teaspoons of harissa paste for extra heat and a touch of complexity.
- Herb boost: Sprinkle fresh parsley or dill instead of cilantro for a different herbal finish.
- Garlic substitute: Swap garlic powder with roasted garlic cloves for a sweeter, more subdued garlic flavor.
- Low-sodium option: Use low-sodium vegetable bouillon cubes or skip the cubes altogether for a milder seasoning.
Cooking Time
Here’s how long it takes to prepare and cook this delicious recipe:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Equipment You Need
To make Moroccan roasted potatoes, you’ll need the following equipment:
- Large mixing bowl: Perfect for tossing the potatoes with the spices and oil evenly.
- Baking tray: Ensures the potatoes cook evenly and turn golden-brown.
- Parchment paper or baking sheet: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup much easier.
- Oven: For roasting the potatoes to crispy perfection.
How to Make Moroccan Roasted Potatoes
Making these potatoes is incredibly simple, and every step adds to the ultimate burst of flavor. Here’s how to do it:
Step 1: Prepare the potatoes
First, wash the potatoes thoroughly and either peel or leave the skin on, depending on your preference. Cut them into bite-sized cubes to ensure even roasting.
Step 2: Mix the seasoning
Grab a large mixing bowl and combine the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, cumin, paprika, ground black pepper, salt, and crumbled vegetable bouillon cubes. Stir well to blend the spices and dissolve the bouillon evenly.
Step 3: Coat the potatoes
Add the potato cubes into the bowl with the spice mixture. Toss everything together until every piece is well-coated in the aromatic seasoning.
Step 4: Arrange on the baking tray
Line a baking tray with parchment paper or a baking sheet. Spread the seasoned potatoes in a single layer to ensure they cook evenly.
Step 5: Roast to golden perfection
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Roast the potatoes for about 30 minutes, flipping them midway for even browning. You’ll know they’re ready when they turn golden brown and slightly crispy on the edges.
Step 6: Garnish and serve
Remove the roasted potatoes from the oven and allow them to cool slightly. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro for a touch of vibrant color and freshness.
Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better
Here are a few tips I’ve learned from making this recipe to ensure it turns out perfectly every time:
- Size matters: Cut the potatoes evenly so they cook at the same rate. Avoid overly large chunks, as they may not crisp up as well.
- Crispier texture: Use a higher baking rack in your oven and spread the potatoes out without overlapping.
- Don’t skip the lemon: The citrus tang balances the spices and gives the dish an authentic Moroccan flair.
- Experiment with spices: Add a pinch of turmeric or ground coriander for even more depth and color.
How to Serve Moroccan Roasted Potatoes
Moroccan roasted potatoes are a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with various meals. Here are some ideas for serving:
- Serve them as a side dish alongside grilled or roasted mains like the easy Greek lemon chicken recipe.
- Add them to a fresh garden salad for a hearty and flavorful twist.
- Include them in wraps as a filling with your favorite veggies and sauces for a quick on-the-go lunch.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick look at the nutritional breakdown for this recipe:
- Calories: 237
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fat: 9g
How to Store Moroccan Roasted Potatoes
Storing your roasted potatoes properly ensures you can enjoy them later without compromising flavor or texture:
- Refrigerating: Place leftovers in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Spread roasted potatoes on a baking tray in a single layer and freeze for 3-4 hours. Transfer them into a freezer-safe bag for up to 6 months.
- Reheating: Reheat the potatoes in the oven at 200°C (400°F) for about 15 minutes, flipping them halfway through for even warming.
Great as a side dish or part of dinner recipes. Check out these recipes for a hearty dinner option.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Moroccan roasted potatoes are sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Here’s why:
- Easy to prepare: With simple steps and minimal prep, you’ll have this dish ready in no time.
- Bursting with flavor: The blend of spices creates a bold, unforgettable taste.
- Diet-friendly: Naturally gluten-free and adaptable for vegan, dairy-free, and low-sodium diets.
- Crowd-pleaser: Who doesn’t love a crispy, golden potato with layers of seasoning?
FAQs
Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
Yes, sweet potatoes work wonderfully in this recipe. Their natural sweetness complements the spice blend, providing a unique flavor twist.
What if I don’t have vegetable bouillon cubes?
You can skip the bouillon cubes or substitute them with ½ teaspoon of vegetable stock powder.
How do I keep the potatoes crispy during storage?
Allow the potatoes to cool fully before storing them. When reheating, bake instead of microwaving to retain the crisp texture.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the potatoes and roast them just before serving, or cook and store them to reheat later.