Deliciously Crispy Spanish-Style Oven Fries Recipe
Welcome to my recipe for Spanish-Style Oven Fries! If you’re a fan of french fries, you’re going to love this recipe. But what makes these fries special is their Spanish twist. The combination of smoked paprika, garlic, and olive oil creates a flavor that’s both savory and slightly sweet. And the best part? These fries are baked, not fried, so they’re a healthier option without sacrificing any of the crispiness.
I’m a firm believer that everyone should have a go-to fries recipe in their back pocket. Whether you’re hosting a movie night, throwing a party or just craving a snack, these Spanish-style oven fries are the perfect choice. They’re easy to make, require only a few common ingredients, and can be customized to your taste preferences. Trust me when I say that once you try these crispy, flavorful fries, you’ll never want to go back to plain old potato chips.
So, let’s get started on this recipe that will surely become a staple in your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you’re a fan of french fries, then you’re in for a treat with these Spanish-style oven fries. Not only are they healthier than deep-fried potatoes, but they’re also incredibly flavorful and crispy. Here are a few reasons why you’ll love this recipe:
1. Spanish-style seasoning: These fries are seasoned with smoked paprika and garlic, which adds a smoky and slightly spicy flavor that’s different from traditional french fries.
2. Oven-baked and crispy: You don’t need a deep fryer to get crispy fries. These oven-baked fries are just as crispy and delicious, without all the added oil and calories.
3. Versatile: These fries can be served as a side dish or as a snack, and they pair well with a variety of dishes. Try them with steak, burgers, or even a fried egg on top.
4. Easy to make: With just a few simple ingredients and some basic kitchen tools, you can whip up a batch of these fries in no time.
5. Healthier than traditional fries: By baking these fries instead of deep frying them, you’re reducing the amount of oil and calories in each serving. Plus, using russet potatoes instead of pre-packaged frozen fries means you’re getting a fresher and more natural product.
So, whether you’re looking for a healthier alternative to traditional fries or just want to try something new and flavorful, these Spanish-style oven fries are sure to please.
Ingredient List
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2 lbs potatoes: We are using Russet potatoes for this recipe. They make great fries because they are high in starch and low in moisture, making them crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside.
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2 tablespoons olive oil: This is the oil we will be using to coat the potatoes. It helps the potatoes to cook evenly and get crispy.
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2 garlic cloves, minced: Garlic adds a delicious flavor to the potatoes.
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1 teaspoon salt: Salt is an essential ingredient in any fries recipe. It enhances the flavor of the potatoes.
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1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Black pepper adds a mild heat and depth of flavor to the fries.
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1 tablespoon Spanish smoked paprika: This is what gives the fries their Spanish-style flavor. Smoked paprika has a unique smoky, sweet, and slightly spicy taste that is perfect for this recipe.
Ingredients Substitutions and Variations:
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Potatoes: You can use any type of potatoes for this recipe, but keep in mind that different types of potatoes will yield different textures.
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Olive Oil: You can use any type of cooking oil you prefer, such as canola oil, vegetable oil, or avocado oil.
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Garlic: If you don’t like garlic, you can omit it from the recipe.
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Seasonings: Feel free to experiment with different seasonings to make the fries your own. Old Bay seasoning, paprika, or even a sprinkle of cheddar soup mix make great additions.
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Cut: You can cut the potatoes into thin strips to make traditional french fries or into thick wedges for steak fries. You can also use a crinkle cutter for restaurant-style fries.
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Cooking Method: While we are baking the fries in the oven, you can also deep fry them, air fry them or cook them on a stovetop.
The Recipe How-To
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
To start making these delicious Spanish-Style Oven Fries, preheat your oven to 400°F.
Step 2: Cut the Potatoes
Next, wash and dry 2 lbs of russet potatoes. Cut them into 1/2 inch thick sticks, just like you would do for regular French fries.
Step 3: Mix the Seasonings
In a small bowl, mix 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper, 1 teaspoon of Spanish smoked paprika, and 2 minced garlic cloves.
Step 4: Toss the Potatoes
Place the potatoes in a large bowl and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Toss the potatoes to make sure they are evenly coated with the oil. Then, add the seasoning mix and toss again to make sure the potatoes are evenly coated with the spices.
Step 5: Bake the Potatoes
Spread the potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet. Make sure there is enough space between the potatoes to allow for even cooking. Bake the potatoes for 25-30 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy.
Step 6: Enjoy Your Spanish-Style Oven Fries
Once the potatoes are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauce or as a side dish for your favorite meal.
These Spanish-Style Oven Fries are a healthier alternative to deep-fried potatoes. They are full of flavor and have a crispy texture that will leave you wanting more. With just a few simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can enjoy restaurant-style fries in the comfort of your own home.
Substitutions and Variations
Looking to switch things up or cater to specific dietary needs? No worries, here are some substitutions and variations to try out with this Spanish-Style Oven Fries recipe.
– Potatoes: While Russet potatoes are the most commonly used for french fries, feel free to experiment with other varieties such as Yukon Gold or sweet potatoes for a different flavor and texture.
– Seasonings: If you’re not a fan of smoked paprika, you can substitute it with regular paprika or even chili powder for a spicy kick. You can also add additional herbs and spices such as thyme or rosemary to the mix.
– Oil: For a healthier option, you can use avocado oil or coconut oil instead of olive oil. You can also try using a cooking spray to lightly coat the potatoes.
– Toppings: Want to try something different? Instead of the traditional Spanish-style topping of tomato sauce and aioli, try topping your fries with shredded cheddar cheese, Old Bay seasoning, or even a fried egg.
– Cooking method: If you don’t have an oven, you can try making these fries in an air fryer for a similar crispy texture. You can also deep fry them for a restaurant-style taste, or cut them into thicker pieces for steak fries or potato wedges.
Remember, the beauty of cooking is that you can always make it your own. Don’t be afraid to get creative and experiment with different substitutions and variations to find the perfect flavor combination for you.
Serving and Pairing
These Spanish-style oven fries are a perfect side dish for any meal. They’re crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, and the smoky paprika seasoning gives them a unique flavor that pairs well with a variety of different foods.
One of my favorite ways to serve these fries is with a juicy steak or grilled chicken. They’re also great alongside a salad or as a snack with a cold beer. For a fun twist, try using them as a base for nachos, topped with melted cheddar cheese and diced tomatoes.
When it comes to pairing these fries with other dishes, the possibilities are endless. They’re a great complement to spicy foods, like chili or tacos, as well as milder fare like roasted vegetables or baked fish. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try serving them with a fried egg on top for a delicious breakfast dish.
No matter how you choose to serve them, these Spanish-style oven fries are sure to be a hit with your family and friends. So whip up a batch today and get ready to enjoy the crispy, smoky goodness!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
These Spanish-style oven fries are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, but if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), spread the fries out onto a baking sheet, and bake for about 10-15 minutes or until crispy. You can also reheat them in the microwave, but they may not be as crispy.
If you want to make these fries ahead of time, you can partially cook them, let them cool, and then store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to finish cooking them. This can be useful if you’re planning a big meal or hosting a party. To do this, follow the recipe instructions up until the point where you put the fries in the oven. Instead of baking them for the full amount of time, bake them for only 10-15 minutes or until they are just starting to become golden brown. Remove them from the oven, let them cool to room temperature, and then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to finish cooking them, preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C), spread the fries out onto a baking sheet, and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until they are crispy and golden brown.
You can also freeze these fries if you want to make a big batch and store them for later. To do this, follow the recipe instructions up until the point where you put the fries in the oven. Instead of baking them, spread them out onto a baking sheet and put them in the freezer until they are frozen solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to cook them, preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C), spread the frozen fries out onto a baking sheet, and bake for 20-25 minutes or until they are crispy and golden brown.
Overall, these Spanish-style oven fries are a great make-ahead option and can easily be reheated to crispy perfection. Whether you’re serving them as a side dish or a snack, they are sure to be a hit with anyone who loves crispy, flavorful potatoes.
Tips for Perfect Results
To ensure that your Spanish-Style Oven Fries turn out crispy and golden brown every time, here are some tips to keep in mind:
1. Cut the Potatoes Evenly: When cutting the potatoes, try to make them as uniform as possible. This will ensure that they cook evenly and become crispy all around. You can use a mandolin or a sharp knife to achieve this.
2. Soak Potatoes in Cold Water: Soaking the potatoes in cold water for at least 30 minutes before baking helps to remove the excess starch, resulting in crispier fries. Make sure to pat the potatoes dry with a clean towel before seasoning them.
3. Use Smoked Paprika: Smoked paprika is a crucial ingredient in this recipe as it gives the fries a smoky and slightly sweet flavor. Make sure to use Spanish smoked paprika for an authentic taste.
4. Add Garlic Cloves: Garlic cloves minced and added to the seasoning mix provides a flavorful kick to the fries. It is important to mix the garlic cloves with the other ingredients, so the garlic doesn’t burn, which can make the fries taste bitter.
5. Toss Potatoes in Olive Oil: Tossing the potatoes in olive oil before baking helps them to become crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. It is essential to use enough olive oil to coat the potatoes fully.
6. Season with Salt and Pepper: Don’t forget to season the fries with salt and pepper to taste. This will bring out the flavors of all the other ingredients.
7. Use a Large Baking Sheet: It’s important to use a large baking sheet to ensure that the fries are spread out and not overcrowded. This will help them to cook evenly and become crispy all around.
8. Don’t Overcrowd the Fries: Overcrowding the fries on the baking sheet will result in steaming instead of baking, which will make them less crispy. Make sure to leave enough space between the fries to allow for even baking.
By following these tips, you will end up with delicious Spanish-Style Oven Fries that are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. Enjoy!
FAQ
Before you start making these delicious Spanish-Style Oven Fries, you might have some questions about the recipe. In this section, I will answer some of the most frequently asked questions about the dish so that you can make these fries with confidence and ease. From substitutions to cooking tips, keep reading to get all your questions answered.
Why are my fries not crispy in the oven?
When making crispy fries, ensure that they are not overlapping each other in the pan to ensure even browning. It is also important not to overcrowd the pan as this will require flipping halfway through the baking process. After baking for around 30 to 40 minutes, the fries should turn golden brown and crispy. This will ensure that the fries are perfectly cooked and ready to be enjoyed.
Why do you soak fries in water before baking?
To achieve perfectly crispy oven-baked french fries, it is recommended that you soak your cut fries in cold water for at least an hour beforehand. This process will effectively remove the excess potato starch from the outside of the fries, leading to a crispier texture once baked. Additionally, this method ensures that the fries will not burn in the oven, resulting in a deliciously golden and crispy exterior.
What is the secret to crispy french fries?
To achieve the ideal texture of a fry, it is crucial to follow a specific cooking process. The first step involves briefly boiling the fries in water, known as blanching. After blanching, the fries must be fried twice in oil at different temperatures to achieve a creamy inside and a crispy outer layer. The initial fry should be done at a lower temperature than the second fry, which should be done at 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This method will result in perfectly cooked fries.
What are french fries called in Spain?
In the Spanish cuisine, a common term used for fried potatoes is either patatas fritas or papas fritas.
Bottom Line
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In conclusion, this Spanish-Style Oven Fries recipe is the perfect addition to any meal. With its crispy texture, bold flavors, and easy-to-follow instructions, it is sure to impress your friends and family. Not only is it a healthier alternative to traditional deep-fried french fries, but it also packs a ton of flavor and is versatile enough to pair with a variety of dishes.
Whether you’re looking for a side dish to serve with your favorite steak or burger, or you want to impress your guests with a delicious and unique appetizer, this recipe is a must-try. So go ahead and give it a shot – you won’t be disappointed!
And if you’re feeling adventurous, don’t be afraid to experiment with different seasonings and toppings to make it your own. Whether you prefer a classic paprika and garlic blend or want to try something new like Old Bay seasoning or a fried egg on top, the possibilities are endless.
So what are you waiting for? Get in the kitchen and whip up a batch of these delicious Spanish-Style Oven Fries today – your taste buds will thank you!
Spanish-Style Oven Fries Recipe
Another twist in an old theme.
- 1 1/2 lbs potatoes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon spanish smoked paprika
- Cut each potato lenghtwise in 8 wedges.
- Mix all the ingredients in a bowl.
- Place potatoes on a baking sheet coated with a little olive oil or cooking spray.
- Bake at 400 degrees for 60 minutes, tossing once or twice.
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