Baked Potato Casserole

This dish is Saniyeh Batata (or Siniyet Batata), a classic Middle Eastern roasted potato tray. It’s a comforting, rustic dish where sliced potatoes are baked in a savory tomato and onion sauce until tender.

Heart-Healthy Saniyeh Batata

1. The Ingredients

2. Preparation Steps

Step 1: Prep the Veggies

• Place your potato slices and onion rings in a large bowl.

• Toss them with the olive oil, garlic, and dry spices. Using cumin and paprika provides a deep, smoky flavor that reduces the need for salt.

Step 2: Layering

• Arrange the potatoes and onions in a baking dish (as seen in your image). Overlapping them slightly ensures even cooking and a beautiful presentation.

Step 3: The Sauce

• Whisk together the tomato purée and the low-sodium broth.

• Pour the mixture over the potatoes until they are mostly submerged but not completely covered.

Step 4: The Roast

• Cover the dish tightly with foil. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 30–40 minutes.

• Remove the foil and bake for another 10–15 minutes until the sauce has thickened and the tops of the potatoes are golden and slightly crisp.

3. Serving Suggestion

This dish is traditionally served with a side of vermicelli rice or can be eaten with whole-wheat pita bread. To keep it light for your respiratory comfort, try serving it alongside a fresh green salad or some steamed lean protein like lemon-garlic chicken breast.