Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step by Step Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
- Wash the russet potatoes well.
- Peel them if you like, or leave the skin on.
- Cut the potatoes into thin fries, about 1/4-inch thick.
- For thicker fries, cut them larger.
Step 2: Soak the Fries
- Place the cut fries in a bowl of cold water.
- Let them soak for 30 minutes.
- This helps make the fries crispier.
Step 3: Make the Seasoning
- In a small bowl, mix the paprika, cayenne, and garlic powder.
- Add onion powder, thyme, oregano, black pepper, and sugar.
- Set the seasoning aside.
Step 4: Cook the Fries
For Frying
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or pan to 350°F (175°C).
- Carefully add fries to hot oil in small batches.
- Fry for 4-5 minutes until golden and crispy.
- Remove the fries and drain on paper towels.
For Baking
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Spread fries on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Drizzle with oil and bake for 30-40 minutes.
- Flip the fries halfway through for even crispness.
Step 5: Toss the Fries in Seasoning
- While the fries are hot, place them in a large bowl.
- Sprinkle the seasoning over the fries.
- Toss well to coat evenly.
Step 6: Serve
- Serve the fries hot as a snack or side dish.
- Pair with ranch, spicy aioli, or ketchup for dipping.
Servings and Preparation Times
- Preparation Time: 15-20 minutes (excluding soaking time)
- Cooking Time: 50 minutes (Frying: 8-10 minutes) (Baking: 30-40 minutes)
- Soaking Time (Optional): 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour (depending on your cooking method)
- Servings: This recipe makes about 4 servings, but it’s easy to double or halve the recipe depending on how many people you’re serving.
Notes
- Customize the Spice Level: If you like your fries extra spicy, feel free to add more cayenne pepper or even a dash of hot sauce. For a milder version, reduce the cayenne pepper and skip the hot sauce.
- Choose the Right Potatoes: For the crispiest fries, use russet potatoes. They have a high starch content that makes them perfect for frying.
- Double-Fry for Extra Crispiness: If you want your fries extra crispy, fry them twice. First, fry them at a lower temperature to cook through, then fry them again at a higher temperature for that golden, crispy texture.
- Add a Dip: These fries go great with a variety of dips. Try pairing them with ranch dressing, blue cheese dressing, or even a spicy aioli for an extra layer of flavor.
- Make Them Ahead: You can prep the fries ahead of time by cutting them and storing them in water. This helps remove excess starch and results in crispier fries when cooked.
