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MoroccanAuthentic Cuisine

Potato Salad (Batata Mcharmla)

Serves 4 Salad vegetarian, Salads

Potato Salad (Batata Mcharmla)

Batata Mcharmla is a Moroccan potato salad that diverges from the more familiar mayonnaise-based versions. It's a staple in many Moroccan homes, often prepared for casual lunches or as part of a mezze-style spread. The key to this dish is in the timing; the potatoes are dressed while still steaming, allowing them to soak up the vibrant flavors of the chermoula marinade.

The result is a salad that bursts with the earthy warmth of cumin and paprika, balanced by the zing of lemon and the freshness of cilantro. The olive oil adds richness, while the salt enhances each element. Every bite delivers a complex, aromatic profile that is both satisfying and refreshingly light.

Ingredients

  • 800 g (1.75 lb)waxy potatoes
  • 3 tbspchermoula
  • 3 tbspolive oil
  • 3/4 tspsalt

Method

  1. Place 800 g (1.75 lb) of waxy potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add a pinch of salt to the water to enhance the potatoes' flavor as they cook. Bring the water to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a gentle simmer. Cook the potatoes until they are just tender; you should be able to pierce them easily with a fork, but they should not fall apart.
  2. Once the potatoes are tender, drain them immediately using a colander. While the potatoes are still hot, carefully cube them into bite-sized pieces. The heat will help them absorb the flavors of the dressing more effectively.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the hot potato cubes with 3 tablespoons of chermoula. Add 3 tablespoons of olive oil and 3/4 teaspoon of salt. The chermoula will infuse the potatoes with its aromatic blend of garlic, cumin, paprika, lemon, and cilantro.
  4. Gently toss the potatoes with the chermoula, olive oil, and salt until each piece is evenly coated. Be careful not to mash the potatoes as you mix; they should retain their shape.
  5. Transfer the dressed potatoes to a serving dish. Serve the Batata Mcharmla warm, allowing the flavors to meld and the aroma of the chermoula to be fully appreciated.
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From the cookbook

Authentic Moroccan Cuisine

This recipe is from Authentic Moroccan Cuisine by Yassine Sbiti — the Moroccan volume in the ComidaTime International Cuisines series.