There’s something wildly satisfying about biting into a perfectly crispy French fry, fresh from the oven. And these aren’t just any fries—they’re like little golden sticks of joy that dance on your taste buds. They remind me of those Sunday afternoons after a soccer game, just sitting in the kitchen, the smell of potatoes and spices swirling around like a comforting hug.
Steps
- Preheat your oven to 450°F and coat a large baking sheet with 1.5 tablespoons of olive oil, ensuring the pan is evenly covered.
- Clean the potatoes and slice them into sticks that are 1/4-inch wide. Submerge them in hot tap water in a large bowl, ensuring they are covered by at least an inch of water, and let them soak for 10 minutes.
- Drain the water from the potatoes and dry them thoroughly with a clean towel. Return them to the bowl, drizzle with 1.5 tablespoons of olive oil, and season with salt, garlic powder, dill weed, onion powder, and pepper.
- Arrange the seasoned potato sticks in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Roast in the oven for 15 to 20 minutes until the bottoms turn golden.
- Carefully flip the fries using a spatula to ensure even browning. Continue baking for another 5 to 10 minutes until they reach your desired crispness. Serve hot, adding more salt if necessary.
Ingredients
- baked fries:
- 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes (or Russet potatoes as an alternative)
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided
- Salt, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dill weed
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Nutritional Values
Calories: 908kcal | Carbohydrates: 120g | Protein: 16g | Fat: 44g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Potassium: 2900mg | Fiber: 16g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin C: 136mg | Calcium: 80mg | Iron: 4mg
FAQ
- Why do I need to soak the potatoes before baking?
- Soaking the potatoes helps to remove excess starch, which is crucial for achieving crispiness in the oven. A hot water soak mimics the effect of a double fry, enhancing the texture.
- Can I use russet potatoes instead of Yukon gold?
- Yes, you can use russet potatoes, but be aware that they may result in fries that are slightly drier and less creamy compared to those made with Yukon gold potatoes.
- Is it possible to make these fries in an air fryer?
- Certainly! You can prepare these fries in an air fryer. You may need to cook them in more batches, but the results will still be delightful.
- Are baked fries healthier than fried fries?
- Baked fries are healthier than fried ones since they use less oil, which reduces the overall fat and calorie content. They also retain beneficial nutrients such as fiber, potassium, and vitamins.
- How can I store and reheat leftover fries?
- Leftover fries can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them on a preheated baking sheet in a 400-degree oven for 5 to 8 minutes to restore some crispiness.
Tips
- Choose Yukon Gold Potatoes: Opt for Yukon gold potatoes over russet varieties for a creamier interior and crispy exterior. They provide a superior texture for baked fries.
- Soak Before Baking: Soaking the sliced potatoes in hot water before baking helps achieve a tender inside and crispy outside. Avoid using salt water as it can lead to a mushy texture.
- Generously Use Oil: Don’t hesitate to use enough oil, such as extra-virgin olive oil, to ensure the fries crisp up nicely in the oven and gain that classic fry flavor.
- Season Well: Season the fries both before and after baking. Use a mix of spices like garlic powder, onion powder, and dill weed, or experiment with your favorite blends to enhance the flavor.
Equipment
- Rimmed Baking Sheets – Essential for baking the fries evenly and preventing spillages in the oven.
- Non-Slip Cutting Board – Useful for safely cutting potatoes into sticks.
- Mixing Bowls – Needed for soaking and seasoning the potatoes.
