Charisma was eager to start the French Fries challenge, and with leftover chili set as the plan for dinner, we thought it was great timing. Serenity won this challenge with her Garlic Fries submission.
I have combined all our recipes into one main recipe that details how to make each variation: Astra's French Fries (only salt, no oil, served with sour cream and chopped pretzels), Charisma's Smoky Fries (a blend of smoky spices and herbs), and Serenity's winning Garlic Fries (worth the extra step for the garlic lovers, served with chopped green onions).
French Fries
Servings: 4
INGREDIENTS
For each variation, you will need:
3 large baking potatoes
French Fries
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons vegetable oil - optional
Garlic Fries
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon dried parsley leaves
Smoky Fries
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon oregano
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon cumin
1/2 teaspoon chipotle chili powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
Topping suggestions:
chopped pretzels
sour cream
chopped green onions
cheese
chopped tomatoes
prepared chili
DIRECTIONS
Preheat the oven to 450 degrees F.
If making the garlic fries variation: Heat the garlic and oil in a small saucepan over medium heat for 2 minutes. Strain the garlic from the oil with a small mesh strainer. Set both garlic and oil aside.
For all other variations, and the second step for the garlic fries: Cut the potatoes into 1/4-inch sticks, or use a mandolin to make waffle fries. In a large bowl, toss the potatoes with the salt and oil, and the rest of the smoky variation’s herbs and spices, if using. If making the garlic variation, reserve your fresh parsley and sauteed garlic for the very end.
Spray a baking sheet with cooking spray or use a sheet of parchment paper and spread the potatoes onto it in a single layer. Bake until golden and crisp, about 35 minutes. Remove potatoes from the tray with a metal spatula. Toss with additional salt, to taste, and the reserved garlic and parsley, if using. Serve immediately.
