Chtitha Batata (Algerian Potato Stew)

This authentic Algerian potato stew is made with dersa, a spicy chile and garlic paste. It's delicious on its own as a vegan or vegetarian main, or served as a side to meat or fish. An easy way to enjoy North African cuisine at home with easy-to-find ingredients!

• Preparation Time: 10 mins
• Cooking Time: 45 mins
• Total Time: 55 mins
• Calories: 206 Calories

Ingredients

• ½ teaspoon salt
• water to cover
• salt to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 small fresh red chile pepper, seeded and chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, peeled and halved
• 1 ½ pounds new potatoes, halved

Recipe Instructions

Step 1

Combine garlic, chile pepper, cumin, paprika, black pepper, cayenne, and salt in a mortar; grind with a pestle until it forms a paste. Add olive oil and mix dersa well.

Step 2

Heat a large saucepan over medium heat and stir-fry dersa until fragrant, 2 to 4 minutes. Add potato halves and stir to combine with the dersa. Stir in tomato paste. Pour in enough water to just cover the potatoes and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are tender, about 40 minutes.

Step 3

Ladle potatoes into a serving bowl. Spoon any remaining sauce over the potatoes.