Mb’atten is the traditional name of these savoury potatoes with turmeric rice and is the Libyan version of a stuffed spud. Try our take on this traditional African dish!

SERVES 6 // COOKING TIME 1 hour

INGREDIENTS
For the savoury potatoes
1 onion, chopped
2 green chillies
1 garlic clove
1 tsp ginger
1 cinnamon stick
1 tbsp tomato paste
1 kg beef mince
500 g baby potatoes, parboiled and cut into wedges
1 tsp turmeric
¼ cup water
For the turmeric rice
2 cups rice
1 tsp turmeric
3 cardamom pods, crushed
Handful coriander
1 spring onion, chopped

METHOD
For the savoury potatoes
1. Heat some oil in a large pot and fry the onion and chilli for 5 minutes. Add the garlic, ginger and cinnamon, and heat until fragrant, about 2 minutes.
2. Then add the tomato paste and mince. Once the mince has browned, add the potatoes, turmeric and water. Simmer for 10 minutes.
For the turmeric rice
1. Cook the rice according to packet instructions, adding the turmeric and cardamom to the cooking water.
2. Serve the savoury potatoes with the turmeric rice, fresh coriander and spring onion.

Recipe & styling: Amerae Vercueil
Photography: Andreas Eiselen // HMimages.co.za

The options for potatoes are endless! You can enjoy this veggie favourite in all kinds of ways, but we tend to prefer ours extra spicy. Make these smashed potatoes with Bombay spice to see why!