Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). It’s important to ensure that your oven is hot enough to get that beautiful roast on the potatoes.
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This helps prevent the potatoes from sticking and makes for an easier cleanup afterwards.
In a large mixing bowl, toss the cubed potatoes with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, ½ teaspoon of salt, and ¼ teaspoon of ground black pepper until they are evenly coated.
Spread the seasoned potatoes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. It’s crucial not to overcrowd them as they need space to roast properly.
Roast the potatoes for about 40 minutes. Flip them halfway through the cooking time to ensure they brown evenly on all sides, and keep an eye on them until they’re crisp and tender.
If you want to try the frying method, first pat the roasted potatoes dry. Heat about 1 inch of oil in a large skillet to 350°F (180°C). Fry the potatoes in batches for about 15 minutes per batch, or until they are golden brown.
Once fried, drain the potatoes on paper towels to remove excess oil.
Now, let’s make the sauce! In a skillet over medium-low heat, warm another 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Add the minced garlic and red chili flakes; cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Stir in the paprika and chopped cilantro leaves. This adds a burst of flavor and color to the dish.
Finally, add the roasted potatoes to the skillet, tossing them with tongs until they are well coated in the sauce.
Transfer everything to a serving dish, garnish with extra cilantro, and drizzle fresh lemon juice over the top. Serve hot and enjoy!