Mfarakeh Batata with Tomatoes (Moussaka with Potatoes)

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Introduction

Mfarakeh Batata with Tomatoes, also known as “Moussaka with Potatoes” or “Stew of Fried Tomato and Potato Cubes,” is a simple and hearty dish, popular in many Middle Eastern and Mediterranean kitchens. This comforting recipe blends the richness of fried potatoes with the tangy flavor of fresh tomatoes, creating a delicious and nutritious meal. Whether you’re looking for a vegetarian main course or a savory side dish, Mfarakeh Batata offers a versatile option, packed with flavor and easy to prepare.

Time

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour

Needed Equipment

• Large skillet or frying pan
• Medium saucepan
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Spatula or wooden spoon
• Mixing bowl
• Serving dish
• Paper towels (for draining fried potatoes)

Tags

• Vegetarian
• Gluten-free
• Middle Eastern cuisine
• Comfort food
• Family-friendly

Serving Size

• Serves: 4 people

Difficulty Level

• Difficulty: Easy

Allergen Information

• Allergens: None
• Gluten-free: Yes
• Dairy-free: Yes
• Nut-free: Yes

Ingredients (in Tables)

Ingredient	Amount
Potatoes	4 large (about 800g)
Tomatoes	5 large ripe (about 600g)
Onion	1 medium
Garlic cloves	3 cloves
Olive oil	1/4 cup
Salt	1 1/2 teaspoons
Black pepper	1/2 teaspoon
Ground cumin (optional)	1/2 teaspoon
Paprika (optional)	1/2 teaspoon
Fresh parsley (optional)	2 tablespoons, chopped

Instructions

1. Preparation of Potatoes:
   • Wash and peel the potatoes. Cut them into medium-sized cubes (about 1 inch).
   • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
   • Fry the potato cubes until golden and crispy, about 10-15 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
   • Once done, remove the potatoes with a slotted spoon and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
2. Preparation of the Tomato Sauce:
   • Finely chop the onions and garlic cloves.
   • In the same skillet, leave a small amount of the oil used for frying and add the chopped onions. Sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
   • Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
   • Dice the tomatoes and add them to the skillet. Stir the mixture and let it cook for 10-12 minutes until the tomatoes break down and form a thick sauce.
3. Combining Potatoes and Sauce:
   • Add the fried potato cubes to the tomato sauce and stir gently to combine.
   • Season the dish with salt, black pepper, cumin, and paprika if desired. Let the mixture simmer for another 10 minutes on low heat to allow the flavors to blend.
4. Serving:
   • Transfer the Mfarakeh Batata with Tomatoes to a serving dish.
   • Garnish with fresh parsley if you like.
   • Serve hot, either as a main dish or as a side dish.

Preparation Tips

• Tomato Quality: Use ripe and juicy tomatoes for the best flavor. If tomatoes are not in season, canned diced tomatoes can be used as a substitute.
• Frying Technique: Ensure the oil is hot enough before adding the potato cubes. This will prevent the potatoes from absorbing too much oil and becoming soggy.
• Spices: While cumin and paprika are optional, they add a pleasant depth of flavor to the dish. Adjust the spice level to your preference.

Nutritional Information (in Tables)

Nutrient	Amount per Serving (1/4 of recipe)
Calories	350
Protein	5g
Fat	18g
Saturated Fat	2.5g
Carbohydrates	45g
Fiber	6g
Sugars	8g
Sodium	600mg
Vitamin C	50% of daily value
Potassium	900mg

Tips and Tricks

• Texture Variations: For a crispier texture, fry the potatoes in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the skillet. Overcrowding reduces crispiness.
• Vegan Protein Add-ons: Add chickpeas or lentils to increase the protein content of the dish. They blend well with the tomato sauce and potatoes.
• Seasoning: Adjust the seasoning to your taste. For a richer flavor, you can use vegetable stock instead of water while cooking the tomatoes.

Add-ons

• Spicy Version: Add a diced chili pepper or a dash of cayenne pepper to give the dish a spicy kick.
• Cheese Lovers: For a cheesy variation, sprinkle grated Parmesan or crumbled feta over the top before serving.

Side Dishes

• Hummus and Pita Bread: This dish pairs perfectly with a side of hummus and warm pita bread.
• Green Salad: A fresh, crisp green salad with cucumbers and lemon dressing complements the richness of the fried potatoes.
• Yogurt Dip: Serve with a side of garlic yogurt dip for a cooling contrast to the warm dish.

Improvements

• Roasting Instead of Frying: For a healthier alternative, roast the potatoes in the oven at 200°C (400°F) for about 25 minutes, tossing them halfway through to ensure even cooking.
• Tomato Variations: If you want a more intense tomato flavor, add a tablespoon of tomato paste while sautéing the onions.

Save and Store

• Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the dish for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and warm it on the stove or in the microwave.
• Reheating Tips: If reheating on the stove, add a splash of water to prevent the dish from drying out.

FAQ

1. Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
   • Yes, sweet potatoes can be a delicious alternative, though they will add a slightly sweet flavor to the dish.
2. Can I prepare the dish ahead of time?
   • Yes, you can prepare the sauce and fry the potatoes ahead of time. Store them separately and combine them just before serving to maintain the potatoes’ crispiness.
3. Is this dish suitable for freezing?
   • Yes, it freezes well. Make sure to cool the dish completely before transferring it to the freezer.
4. Can I make the dish oil-free?
   • For an oil-free version, you can bake or boil the potatoes instead of frying them, but the texture will be different.

Conclusion

Mfarakeh Batata with Tomatoes is a flavorful and hearty dish that combines simple ingredients with bold flavors. Its versatility allows it to be enjoyed as a main dish or as a side, making it a perfect addition to any meal. Whether you prefer it as is or with one of the suggested add-ons, this dish is sure to be a favorite at your table. With minimal ingredients and easy preparation, Mfarakeh Batata offers both comfort and nutrition in every bite.

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