Libyan Mbattan (Fried Potato Stuffed with Meat)

Mbattan is a delicious Libyan dish made of thin potato slices stuffed with a spiced meat filling, dipped in egg, and fried until crispy. It’s a popular dish in Libyan households and a perfect comfort food.

Ingredients:

  • 4 large potatoes (peeled and sliced into thin rounds)
  • 250g ground beef or lamb
  • 1 small onion (finely chopped)
  • 2 garlic cloves (minced)
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 eggs (beaten)
  • Flour for coating
  • Olive oil for frying
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Meat Filling: In a bowl, mix the ground beef (or lamb) with chopped onion, garlic, cumin, paprika, ground coriander, salt, and pepper. Mix well until combined.

  2. Assemble the Mbattan: Take two potato slices and place a small spoonful of the meat mixture between them to create a “sandwich.” Repeat with the remaining potato slices and meat mixture.

  3. Coat the Mbattan: Dip each potato sandwich in flour, then in beaten eggs, ensuring they are fully coated.

  4. Fry the Mbattan: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Fry the stuffed potatoes in batches until they are golden and crispy on both sides, and the meat is cooked through.

  5. Serve: Drain on paper towels and serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley. Serve with a side of bread or salad.