Frequently Asked Questions
What are Crispy Oven-Baked Potato Fries?
They are a healthy twist on classic fries, made from russet potatoes roasted in the oven until golden and crispy.
What type of potatoes are best for this recipe?
The recipe specifically calls for 4 large Russet potatoes for the best texture.
Do I need to peel the potatoes?
No, the recipe suggests scrubbing and washing them but keeping the skins on.
How should I cut the potatoes?
Cut them into thick 'handcut fry slices' after washing.
Why should I soak the potato slices in water?
Soaking helps remove excess starch, which is essential for achieving a crispy exterior.
How long do the potatoes need to soak?
They should be soaked for at least 30 minutes, but can be left for up to 24 hours.
What is the recommended oven temperature?
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) for the best results.
Is it necessary to dry the potatoes after soaking?
Yes, you must drain and pat them dry with paper towels to remove moisture before baking.
How much olive oil is needed?
Use 3 to 4 tablespoons of olive oil to coat the potato slices.
What seasonings are used in this recipe?
The seasonings include sea salt, fresh ground black pepper, smoked paprika, and steak spice seasoning.
When should I add the steak spice seasoning?
It is added both before baking and as an additional dash after the fries are cooked.
How do I prevent the fries from sticking to the pan?
The recipe recommends lining your baking sheet with parchment paper.
How long do the fries take to bake?
They typically take about 35 to 40 minutes in the oven.
Do I need to flip the fries while they are baking?
Yes, turn the fries halfway through the baking time to ensure even browning.
How can I tell when the fries are finished?
They are done when they appear golden and have a crispy exterior.
Are these potato fries vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is explicitly tagged as vegetarian.
How many calories are in a serving?
Each serving contains approximately 170 calories.
What is the fat content per serving?
There is approximately 7.5g of fat per serving.
How many carbohydrates are in these fries?
There are 25g of carbohydrates per serving.
What is the protein content?
Each serving provides about 2.5g of protein.
Can I customize the seasonings?
Yes, the recipe is very customizable; feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices.
Is this a difficult recipe to make?
No, it is categorized as an easy recipe suitable for beginners.
What makes these fries 'healthy'?
They are oven-baked rather than deep-fried, reducing the overall amount of heavy oil used.
What should I serve with these fries?
They work perfectly as a side dish for meals or simply as a standalone snack.
How many ingredients are required?
The recipe uses 6 main ingredients: potatoes, olive oil, and four seasonings.
Can I use regular table salt?
While the recipe calls for sea salt, you can use table salt, though sea salt is preferred for texture.
What does smoked paprika add to the recipe?
Smoked paprika provides a hint of smokiness and a beautiful golden-red color.
Can I make these ahead of time?
You can soak the potatoes up to 24 hours in advance, but they are best served immediately after baking.
Should the fries be in a single layer on the pan?
Yes, spreading them in a single layer ensures they roast rather than steam.
What kind of pepper is recommended?
Freshly ground black pepper is recommended for the best flavor profile.