Spicy Chili French Fries Recipe

Russet potatoes: These are the best type of potatoes for making fries due to their high starch content, which helps them become crispy when baked.

Olive oil: This oil helps to coat the fries and ensures they bake up crispy and golden brown.

Chili powder: Adds a spicy kick to the fries, making them flavorful and exciting.

Paprika: Provides a mild sweetness and a beautiful color to the fries.

Garlic powder: Enhances the overall flavor with a subtle garlic taste.

Salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the flavors of the fries.

Black pepper: Adds a bit of heat and depth to the seasoning mix.

To achieve perfectly crispy fries, make sure to soak the potato slices in cold water for at least 30 minutes before tossing them with the seasoning. This helps to remove excess starch, which can prevent the fries from becoming soggy. After soaking, pat the potatoes dry thoroughly with a clean kitchen towel before proceeding with the recipe.

• russet potatoes - Substitute with sweet potatoes: Sweet potatoes offer a slightly different flavor profile and a bit of natural sweetness that pairs well with spicy seasonings.

• olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a high smoke point and a neutral flavor, making it a good alternative for roasting fries.

• chili powder - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper provides a similar heat level but is more intense, so use it sparingly.

• paprika - Substitute with smoked paprika: Smoked paprika adds a smoky depth to the fries, enhancing the overall flavor.

• garlic powder - Substitute with onion powder: Onion powder offers a different but complementary flavor that can add depth to the fries.

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt has a slightly different texture and can provide a more nuanced flavor.

• black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a milder flavor and can add a subtle heat without overpowering the other spices.

• Allow the fries to cool completely at room temperature before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make them soggy.

• Transfer the cooled fries to an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. If using a container, place a paper towel at the bottom to absorb any excess moisture.

• Store the container or bag in the refrigerator if you plan to consume the fries within 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing.

• To freeze, spread the cooled fries in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This prevents them from sticking together.

• Place the baking sheet in the freezer for about 1-2 hours, or until the fries are frozen solid.

• Once frozen, transfer the fries to a resealable freezer bag or an airtight container. Label with the date to keep track of freshness.

• When ready to reheat, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the frozen fries on a baking sheet in a single layer.

• Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the fries are heated through and crispy. You can also reheat them in an air fryer for a quicker option.

• For an extra kick, sprinkle a bit more chili powder or paprika before serving.

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the leftover fries on a baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for 10-15 minutes, turning halfway through, until they are heated through and crispy again.

• Air Fryer Method: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the fries in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until they are hot and crispy.

• Stovetop Method: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of olive oil to the skillet. Add the fries and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes until they are heated through and crispy.

• Microwave Method: Place the fries on a microwave-safe plate lined with a paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through. Note that this method may not retain the crispiness as well as the other methods.

• Toaster Oven Method: Preheat your toaster oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the fries on the toaster oven tray in a single layer. Bake for 10-12 minutes, turning halfway through, until they are hot and crispy.

• Oven: Used to bake the fries at a high temperature to achieve a crispy texture.

• Large mixing bowl: Essential for tossing the potato fries with olive oil and spices to ensure even coating.

• Baking sheet: Provides a flat surface to spread out the fries in a single layer for even baking.

• Parchment paper: Optional, but helps prevent the fries from sticking to the baking sheet and makes for easier cleanup.

• Spatula: Useful for turning the fries halfway through the baking process to ensure they cook evenly on all sides.

• Measuring spoons: Necessary for accurately measuring the spices and olive oil.

• Knife: Used to cut the russet potatoes into fries.

• Cutting board: Provides a safe and stable surface for cutting the potatoes.

• Cooling rack: Optional, but can be used to let the fries cool slightly without becoming soggy.

Pre-cut potatoes: Save time by cutting the potatoes in advance and storing them in water in the fridge.

Use parchment paper: Line your baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.

Preheat oven: Always preheat your oven while prepping the fries to ensure even cooking.

Batch cooking: Double the recipe and freeze half for a quick future meal.

Uniform shape: Cut the potato fries into uniform sizes to ensure they cook evenly.

Spice mix: Prepare the spice mix in bulk and store it in an airtight container for future use.