Za’atar Baby Potato Recipe – Air Fryer & Spice Blend

Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Za’atar Baby Potato Recipe – Air Fryer & Spice Blend

Hey everyone! I’m so excited to share this incredibly simple, yet flavourful recipe with you. These Za’atar Baby Potatoes, cooked to crispy perfection in the air fryer, have become a bit of a staple in my kitchen. They’re perfect as a quick snack, a side dish, or even a light meal. Honestly, once you try them, you’ll be hooked!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These aren’t just any potatoes. The magic lies in the za’atar spice blend – it adds such a unique and aromatic flavour. Plus, air frying means minimal oil and maximum crispiness. It’s a win-win! They come together in under 30 minutes, making them ideal for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something delicious without a lot of fuss.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make these amazing Za’atar Baby Potatoes:

• 500 grams Baby Potatoes
• 1.5 tbsp Za’atar Spice Mix
• 1 tsp Paprika
• 1 tsp Garlic Powder
• 0.25 tsp Black Pepper Powder
• 1 tsp Salt
• 1.5 tbsp Olive Oil

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients for a moment. A few little things can make a big difference!

• Za’atar Spice Mix: This is the star of the show! I’ll dive deeper into what it is below.
• Baby Potatoes: These are perfect because of their size and thin skin – no peeling required!
• Olive Oil: A good quality olive oil really shines through in the flavour. I prefer extra virgin, but any olive oil you enjoy will work.

Za’atar Spice Mix: Origins and Flavor Profile

Za’atar isn’t just a spice; it’s a Middle Eastern staple! It’s a blend typically made with dried thyme, sumac, sesame seeds, and salt. It has a wonderfully earthy, tangy, and slightly nutty flavour. You can find it in most well-stocked supermarkets or online. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different za’atar blends – they can vary slightly!

Baby Potatoes: Choosing the Best Variety

While any baby potato will work, I find that red-skinned or yellow-fleshed varieties hold their shape and crisp up beautifully. Look for firm, smooth potatoes without any sprouts or blemishes.

Olive Oil: Selecting Quality for Flavor

As I mentioned, a good olive oil makes a difference. Extra virgin olive oil has the most flavour, but a lighter olive oil is fine if that’s what you have on hand. The oil helps the spices adhere to the potatoes and contributes to that lovely golden-brown colour.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking!

1. First, preheat your air fryer to 200°C (392°F) for about 5 minutes. Then, lightly grease the basket – this prevents sticking.
2. Wash and halve your baby potatoes. I usually just give them a good scrub, but if they’re particularly dirty, you can peel them (though the skin is perfectly edible!). Pop them into a bowl of water to prevent discolouring while you prep everything else, then drain and pat them dry.
3. In a separate bowl, combine the za’atar, paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, salt, and olive oil. Give it a good mix – you want everything nicely combined.
4. Now, toss the dried potatoes in the spice mixture. Make sure each potato is evenly coated – this is where the flavour happens!
5. Arrange the potatoes in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Don’t overcrowd it! You might need to cook them in batches. Cook at 180°C (356°F) for 20 minutes, giving the basket a good shake halfway through to ensure even cooking.
6. Finally, serve hot with lime wedges and a sprinkle of fresh coriander. Enjoy!

Expert Tips

Here are a few things I’ve learned along the way to help you make the best Za’atar Baby Potatoes:

• Achieving the Perfect Crispy Texture: Don’t skip the air fryer preheating! A hot air fryer is key to getting that crispy exterior.
• Preventing Potatoes from Sticking: Greasing the basket is essential. If you’re still having trouble, try using a little cooking spray.
• Adjusting Spice Levels: Feel free to adjust the amount of paprika or black pepper to your liking.

Variations

Want to switch things up? Here are a few ideas:

• Vegan Adaptation: This recipe is already naturally vegan!
• Gluten-Free Confirmation: This recipe is also naturally gluten-free.
• Spice Level Adjustment (Mild to Spicy): Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little heat. My friend loves adding a dash of chilli flakes too!
• Festival Adaptation: Ramadan/Iftar Snack: These are perfect for breaking your fast during Ramadan. They’re satisfying and full of flavour.

Serving Suggestions

These potatoes are incredibly versatile. Here are a few ways to serve them:

• With a dollop of Greek yogurt or labneh.
• As a side dish with grilled chicken or fish.
• As part of a mezze platter with hummus and pita bread.

Storage Instructions

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to restore some of the crispiness.

FAQs

Let’s answer some common questions:

• What is Za’atar and where can I find it? Za’atar is a Middle Eastern spice blend, typically containing thyme, sumac, and sesame seeds. You can find it in most supermarkets with a world foods section, or online.
• Can I use different potatoes for this recipe? You can, but baby potatoes are ideal. If using larger potatoes, cut them into bite-sized pieces.
• Can I bake these potatoes instead of air frying? Yes! Bake at 200°C (392°F) for about 30-40 minutes, flipping halfway through. They won’t be quite as crispy, but still delicious.
• How can I adjust the salt level in this recipe? Start with the recommended amount and taste after cooking. You can always add more, but you can’t take it away!
• What other dips or sauces pair well with these potatoes? Tzatziki, hummus, or even a simple garlic aioli would be fantastic.