Crispy Seasoned Potato Fries

This crispy homemade French fry recipe transforms basic russet potatoes into a restaurant-quality side dish with minimal effort. The perfect balance of seasonings creates a flavorful crust while maintaining that fluffy interior we all crave in the perfect fry.

I discovered this technique after countless disappointing homemade fry attempts. The breakthrough came when I started emphasizing even cutting sizes and that generous spice blend. Now these fries are requested at every family gathering.

Ingredients

• Russet potatoes: The starch content creates the perfect crispy exterior. Look for firm potatoes without green spots or sprouts.
• Garlic powder: Adds rich aromatic flavor without burning like fresh garlic. Use fresh high-quality powder for best results.
• Onion powder: Provides subtle sweetness that complements the potatoes. Store in a cool dark place to maintain freshness.
• Course salt: The larger crystals add texture and enhance the potato flavor. Sea salt or kosher salt works perfectly.
• Oregano: Brings a Mediterranean note to the seasoning blend. Crush dried leaves between your fingers to release more oils.
• Paprika: Adds color and mild smoky flavor. Spanish paprika offers the most vibrant color.
• Ground black pepper: Fresh ground pepper provides the best flavor punch. Coarse ground adds pleasant texture.
• Avocado oil or olive oil: Higher smoke points make these oils perfect for high heat cooking. Avocado has a more neutral flavor.
• Fresh chopped parsley: Adds bright flavor and beautiful color contrast. Always add after cooking for maximum visual impact.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the potatoes:

Cut russet potatoes into even thickness strips about ¼ inch wide. Consistency is crucial here as uniform pieces ensure even cooking throughout. Take your time during this step as it determines the final texture.

Create the seasoning blend:

Combine garlic powder, onion powder, course salt, oregano, paprika, and black pepper in a small bowl and whisk thoroughly. This ensures even distribution of all spices for consistent flavor throughout every fry.

Season the potatoes:

Place cut potatoes in a large bowl, sprinkle the seasoning mix evenly across all surfaces, and drizzle with oil. Use your hands to toss and coat each piece thoroughly. The oil helps the seasonings adhere and promotes crisping.

Arrange for cooking:

Position the seasoned fries in a single layer on your baking sheet or air fryer basket. Ensure pieces aren't touching for maximum crispiness. Overcrowding causes steaming instead of crisping.

Cook to perfection:

Bake at 375°F for 15-20 minutes or air fry at the same temperature, flipping halfway through either method. Watch carefully during the final few minutes as they can quickly go from golden to overly brown.

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The spice blend is truly what makes these fries special. I discovered this particular combination after experimenting with dozens of variations. The paprika not only adds color but creates that mouthwatering aroma that fills the kitchen as they cook. My family can always tell when these are on the menu before they even walk into the kitchen.

Storage Tips

These fries maintain their best texture when served immediately after cooking. However, if you need to store leftovers, allow them to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To reheat, the air fryer works wonders at 350°F for 3-5 minutes. The oven also works well at the same temperature for 5-7 minutes. Avoid microwaving as this makes them soggy.

For meal prep, you can cut the potatoes ahead of time and store them submerged in cold water in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just be sure to dry them thoroughly before seasoning and cooking.

Perfect Pairings

These crispy fries pair beautifully with so many main dishes beyond the obvious burger companion. Try them alongside grilled fish for a delicious contrast of textures, or serve with roasted chicken for a comfort food dinner.

For dipping, the included miso tahini sauce offers a sophisticated alternative to ketchup. The umami notes from the miso complement the savory seasoning blend perfectly. Other excellent options include garlic aioli, sriracha mayo, or a simple herb yogurt dip.

For a complete meal, serve alongside a fresh green salad with a bright vinaigrette to balance the richness of the fries.

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The Secret to Extra Crispiness

The key to achieving maximum crispiness lies in properly drying your potatoes after cutting them. Excess moisture is the enemy of crunch. After slicing, lay the potatoes on a clean kitchen towel and pat thoroughly.

For even better results, try soaking the cut potatoes in cold water for 30 minutes before drying and seasoning. This removes excess starch and significantly improves texture. Just remember to dry them extremely well afterward.

The single layer arrangement during cooking is non-negotiable. When potatoes overlap, they steam rather than roast, resulting in soggy sections. Use multiple baking sheets if necessary to maintain proper spacing.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Recipe

→ Can I use sweet potatoes instead of russet potatoes?

Yes, sweet potatoes work great as a substitute for russet potatoes in this preparation. The cooking method remains the same, though sweet potatoes may require slightly different cooking times depending on their size and moisture content. They'll offer a sweeter flavor profile with the same crispy exterior.

→ What's the best way to cut the potatoes for even cooking?

For even cooking, cut the potatoes into uniform sizes and thicknesses. Using a sharp knife, first slice the potato lengthwise into planks of equal thickness, then cut each plank into sticks. Aim for sticks around ¼-inch thick for the perfect balance between crispy exterior and fluffy interior.

→ How can I make these fries extra crispy?

For extra crispiness, soak the cut potato sticks in cold water for 30 minutes before cooking. This removes excess starch. After soaking, thoroughly pat them dry with paper towels before adding seasonings and oil. Also, make sure to arrange them in a single layer without touching during cooking to maximize air circulation.

→ Can I make these fries ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare these fries ahead of time by cutting the potatoes and storing them in water in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Additionally, you can par-cook them for about 70% of the time, let them cool, and then finish cooking them just before serving for that fresh-made crispiness.

→ What other dipping sauces pair well with these fries?

While the miso tahini sauce offers a unique flavor, these crispy fries also pair wonderfully with classic aioli, spicy sriracha mayo, honey mustard, truffle mayo, herb-infused Greek yogurt, or a simple ketchup. For a tangy option, try mixing mayo with pickle juice and dill.

→ How can I adjust the seasoning for different flavor profiles?

The basic seasoning blend is versatile and can be adjusted for different flavor profiles. For Cajun fries, add cayenne and thyme. For Italian-style, increase the oregano and add basil and parmesan. For a smoky flavor, use smoked paprika and add cumin. For a spicy kick, incorporate chili powder or red pepper flakes.