599- Maakouda / معقودة

Ingredients :

4 medium potatoes (800 grams / 1.8 pounds)
Salt, to taste
1 garlic clove, grated
1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
1/2 teaspoon ground paprika
1/4 teaspoon chilli powder
Water

Frying Ingredients
2 eggs
60 grams (1/2 cup) white all-purpose flour
Vegetable oil

Sandwich Ingredients (optional)
Half a baguette
Ketchup or spicy harissa sauce
Some lettuce
Tomato slices

Directions :

Step 1 : Prepare and Shape Potato Patties
1- Peel the potatoes, slice them, and cut them into small chunks.
2- Place the potatoes in a pot, cover them with cold water, and add a pinch of salt. Place the pot over medium-high heat, cover it, and bring the water to a boiling point. Reduce the heat to medium and cook the potatoes for around 20 minutes until they become soft.
3- Drain the potatoes in a strainer and place them in a bowl. Using a wooden spoon, mash the potatoes until smooth.
4- Add the garlic, parsley, paprika, and chili powder. Mix until well combined.
5- Taste the potato mix and adjust the spices accordingly, including salt.
6- Shape the potato mix into small patties of 5 centimeter / 2 inches in diametre.

Step 2 : Fry Potato Patties
7- In a bowl, beat the eggs using a fork.
8- Place a skillet over medium heat and pour some oil on it to deep fry the Maakouda.
9- Dip the potato patties in the beaten eggs, then lightly cover the patties with flour, from both sides.
10- Once the oil is hot, add the potato patties and fry on a medium heat for a few minutes on each side until they become deep golden brown. Be gentle when turning the patties.
11- Once done, remove the Maakouda from the oil and place them on a plate with paper towel to absorb excess oil.

Step 3 : Make the Maakouda Sandwich (optional)
12- Use half a baguette, spread with some ketchup or spicy harissa sauce, and garnish with lettuce, maakouda, and tomato slices.