Forget about greasy fast-food fries – you're about to discover the secret to creating the most mouthwatering, perfectly crispy potato or sweet potato fries right in your own kitchen! Whether you're craving a classic side dish or looking to impress your friends and family with restaurant-quality goodness, this recipe will transform your home cooking game forever. Get ready to unlock the ultimate fry-making technique that guarantees crispy edges, fluffy interiors, and flavor that will have everyone begging for seconds!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 large potatoes or sweet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Wash the potatoes thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris.
- Pat the potatoes completely dry using clean kitchen towels or paper towels to ensure crispy fries.
- Cut the potatoes into uniform, long strips approximately 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick, ensuring consistent size for even cooking.
- Optional: If desired, soak cut potato strips in cold water for 30 minutes to remove excess starch, which helps achieve crispier fries.
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Drain the potato strips if soaked, and thoroughly pat dry with clean towels.
- In a large mixing bowl, toss the potato strips with olive oil, ensuring each strip is evenly coated.
- Sprinkle garlic powder, salt, and black pepper over the oiled potato strips, mixing thoroughly to distribute seasonings evenly.
- Arrange the seasoned potato strips in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not overcrowded or touching each other.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping the fries halfway through cooking to ensure even browning.
- Check the fries during the last 5 minutes of cooking, looking for a golden brown color and crispy exterior.
- Remove from oven and let cool for 2-3 minutes before serving to allow the fries to crisp up further.
- Transfer to a serving plate and optionally garnish with additional salt or herbs like parsley if desired.
Tips
- Moisture is the Enemy: Always pat your potato strips completely dry before cooking. The drier the potatoes, the crispier the fries!
- Size Matters: Cut your potato strips uniformly to ensure even cooking. Inconsistent sizes mean some fries will burn while others remain undercooked.
- Soaking Secret: If time permits, soak your cut potatoes in cold water for 30 minutes. This removes excess starch and helps create that perfect crispy exterior.
- Don't Overcrowd: Give your fries breathing room on the baking sheet. Crowded fries will steam instead of crisp up, robbing you of that golden crunch.
- Flip for Fairness: Halfway through cooking, flip your fries to ensure even browning and crispy perfection on all sides.
- Seasoning Hack: Toss your fries in oil before adding seasonings to help the spices stick and create a more flavorful result.
- Let Them Rest: Allow your fries to cool for a few minutes after cooking – this helps them crisp up even more and prevents burning your mouth!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
