Are you a fan of French fries but tired of the greasy mess that comes with deep-frying? Look no further than oven fries! Not only are they healthier, but they’re also just as crispy and delicious. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know to make the best oven fries.

Choosing the Right Potato

The first step to making the best oven fries is choosing the right potato. Not all potatoes are created equal, and some are better suited for oven fries than others. The best types of potatoes for oven fries are Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes. These potatoes have a high starch content, which makes them perfect for achieving a crispy exterior and fluffy interior.

When it comes to cutting the potatoes, it’s essential to cut them evenly to ensure they cook evenly. The best way to do this is to use a mandoline or a sharp knife. Cut the potatoes into long, thin strips, about 1/4 inch thick. If your fries are too thick, they won’t crisp up properly, and if they’re too thin, they will burn.

Once you’ve cut the potatoes, it’s crucial to soak them in cold water for at least 30 minutes. Soaking the potatoes removes excess starch and helps them cook evenly. After soaking, rinse the potatoes and dry them thoroughly with a clean kitchen towel or paper towel.

By choosing the right potato and properly preparing them, you’ll be on your way to making the best oven fries possible.

Seasoning the Fries

Now that you’ve got your potatoes ready to go, it’s time to add some flavor. The best part about oven fries is that you can season them however you like. Whether you prefer classic salt and pepper or something more adventurous like garlic and parmesan, there are endless possibilities.

When it comes to seasoning, I recommend using a combination of spices and herbs. Some of the best spices for oven fries include paprika, cumin, and chili powder. As for herbs, you can’t go wrong with rosemary, thyme, or parsley.

To evenly coat the fries with seasonings, toss them in a large bowl with the seasoning mixture and a drizzle of oil. The oil not only helps the seasoning stick to the fries but also helps them crisp up in the oven. Be sure not to overdo it with the oil, as too much oil will leave your fries soggy instead of crispy.

With the right seasoning, your oven fries will be bursting with flavor and sure to impress.

Preparing the Fries for Baking

Now that your fries are seasoned and ready to go, it’s time to prepare them for baking. The key to achieving crispy oven fries is ensuring that they are dry before baking. Any excess moisture on the fries will cause them to steam instead of crisp up in the oven.

To dry the fries, place them in a single layer on a clean kitchen towel or paper towel. Gently pat them dry with another towel, making sure to remove as much moisture as possible. Alternatively, you can use a salad spinner to spin the fries dry.

Once the fries are dry, it’s time to coat them with oil. The best oils for coating oven fries are vegetable oil or olive oil. These oils have a high smoke point, which means they can be heated to high temperatures without burning. Be sure not to use too much oil, as this will make your fries greasy instead of crispy.

To coat the fries with oil, pour a small amount of oil over the fries and toss to coat evenly. You can also use a pastry brush to brush the oil onto the fries, ensuring that each fry is coated.

With properly dried and oiled fries, you’re ready to bake them to crispy perfection.

Baking the Fries

The last step in making the best oven fries is baking them to golden-brown perfection. Preheat your oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread the fries out in a single layer on the baking sheet, ensuring that there is enough space between them for air to circulate.

Bake the fries for 20-25 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure even cooking. The exact baking time will depend on the thickness of your fries, so keep an eye on them to avoid burning.

When the fries are done, remove them from the oven and sprinkle with a little extra seasoning, if desired. Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauce, and enjoy the crispy goodness of the best oven fries.

With these tips and tricks, you’ll be able to make the best oven fries every time. Say goodbye to greasy deep-fried fries and hello to healthier, crispy, and delicious oven fries.

Baking the Fries

Now that your oven fries are prepped and seasoned, it’s time to bake them to crispy perfection. The key to achieving crispy and golden-brown fries is to bake them at a high temperature. Preheat your oven to 425°F and place your baking sheet in the oven to preheat as well.

Spread the fries out in a single layer on the preheated baking sheet, making sure they aren’t touching. If the fries are too close together, they won’t crisp up properly. Bake the fries for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping them halfway through. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the cooking time to make sure they don’t burn.

Once the fries are golden brown and crispy, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve them hot and enjoy!

Serving and Enjoying Oven Fries

Oven fries are delicious on their own, but they’re even better when paired with the right dips and sauces. Some of the best dips for oven fries include ketchup, mayonnaise, and aioli. If you’re feeling adventurous, try serving them with a homemade dipping sauce like garlic aioli or chipotle mayo.

If you have leftovers, don’t worry! Oven fries can be reheated in the oven or microwave. To reheat in the oven, preheat your oven to 375°F and spread the fries out in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake for 5 to 7 minutes, or until the fries are heated through. To reheat in the microwave, place the fries on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 30-second intervals until they are hot.

In conclusion, oven fries are a delicious and healthier alternative to deep-fried fries. By choosing the right potato, seasoning them well, and baking them at a high temperature, you can achieve crispy and golden-brown fries every time. Serve them with your favorite dips and sauces, and don’t forget to reheat any leftovers for a tasty snack or side dish.