Spicy Cajun Oven-Baked Fries
These Spicy Cajun Oven-Baked Fries are a delicious twist on traditional fries, infused with bold and zesty Cajun spices. Perfectly seasoned and baked until crispy, these fries make a fantastic side dish or a delightful snack. Whether served with your favorite dipping sauce or enjoyed on their own, this simple recipe captures the essence of Southern cooking and is sure to please anyone looking for a flavor-packed treat. Gather your friends and family to share a plate of these crispy delights!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
13
Ingredients
Ingredients
Medium Potatoes
4 (Peel and slice into french fry shapes)
Oregano
1/4 teaspoon (Dried)
Thyme
1/4 teaspoon (Dried)
Paprika
1 teaspoon (Ground)
Cayenne Pepper
1/8 teaspoon (Ground (adjust to taste))
Black Pepper
1/8 teaspoon (Ground)
Sugar
1/4 teaspoon (Granulated)
Cumin
1/4 teaspoon (Ground)
Salt
1/2 teaspoon (To taste)
Garlic Powder
1 teaspoon (Powdered)
Onion Powder
1/2 teaspoon (Powdered)
Tabasco Sauce
1/4 teaspoon (To taste)
Vegetable Oil
1 tablespoon (To lightly coat)
Instructions
1
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the dried oregano, thyme, paprika, cayenne pepper, black pepper, sugar, cumin, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, Tabasco sauce, and vegetable oil until well combined, forming a thick paste.
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3. Line a large baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Drizzle a small amount of oil onto the foil and spread it evenly with a paper towel to prevent sticking.
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4. Peel the potatoes and cut them into french fry shapes, ensuring even sizing for consistent cooking.
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5. Transfer the sliced fries into a large plastic bag or bowl. Spoon the spice paste over the fries and mix well to coat each fry evenly. If using a bag, seal it and gently shake to ensure every fry is covered.
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6. Spread the coated fries evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure they are arranged in a single layer without overlapping, to allow for optimal crispiness.
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7. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes, flipping the fries halfway through to promote even browning and crispiness. Keep an eye on them, as cooking time may vary based on the thickness of the fries.
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8. Once golden and crispy, remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your spicy Cajun fries hot with your favorite dipping sauce!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Spicy Cajun Oven-Baked Fries?
They are a delicious twist on traditional fries, seasoned with a bold Cajun spice blend and baked until crispy as a healthier alternative to deep-frying.
What oven temperature is required for this recipe?
The oven should be preheated to 400°F (200°C).
How long do the fries need to bake?
Bake the fries for about 30-35 minutes, keeping an eye on them as time varies with thickness.
How many potatoes are needed for this recipe?
You will need 4 medium-sized potatoes.
What herbs are used in the Cajun spice mix?
The recipe uses 1/4 teaspoon each of dried oregano and dried thyme.
Is there sugar in the Cajun seasoning?
Yes, 1/4 teaspoon of granulated sugar is added to the spice blend to balance the flavors.
Which ingredients provide the heat in these fries?
The spiciness comes from cayenne pepper, black pepper, and Tabasco sauce.
Should I peel the potatoes?
Yes, the instructions specify to peel the potatoes before cutting them into fry shapes.
How do I prevent the fries from sticking to the baking sheet?
Line the sheet with aluminum foil and drizzle it with a small amount of oil, spreading it with a paper towel.
What is the best way to coat the fries with spices?
Mix the spices with oil to form a paste, then toss the fries in a large bowl or shake them in a plastic bag with the paste.
Why should the fries be arranged in a single layer?
Arranging them in a single layer without overlapping allows for optimal air circulation and ensures they become crispy.
Do I need to turn the fries while they are baking?
Yes, you should flip the fries halfway through the baking time to promote even browning and crispiness.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Yes, this recipe is plant-based and tagged as a vegan recipe.
What type of oil is recommended?
The recipe calls for 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil.
How much paprika is used in the seasoning?
The recipe requires 1 teaspoon of ground paprika.
Can I adjust the spice level of the fries?
Yes, you can adjust the amount of cayenne pepper and Tabasco sauce to your personal preference.
What flavor does cumin add to the fries?
Cumin provides an earthy depth that complements the other Southern spices in the Cajun blend.
Are these fries considered a healthy snack?
Yes, because they are oven-baked rather than deep-fried, they are classified as a healthy snack option.
What are the onion and garlic measurements?
The recipe uses 1 teaspoon of garlic powder and 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder.
How much salt should be added?
The recipe suggests 1/2 teaspoon of salt, though it can be adjusted to taste.
What is the serving suggestion for these fries?
They are best served hot, either on their own or with your favorite dipping sauce.
How do I ensure the fries are evenly cooked?
Ensure you cut the potatoes into even shapes and spread them out so they do not overlap on the pan.
Is Tabasco sauce mandatory?
It is used to add a zesty kick, but the recipe indicates it should be added 'to taste' and can be adjusted.
Can these be eaten for lunch?
Yes, they are tagged as a suitable option for lunch.
What kind of cuisine is this recipe based on?
This recipe captures the essence of Southern and Cajun cooking.
How do I clean up easily after baking?
Using aluminum foil to line the baking sheet allows for quick and easy cleanup.
What should I do after taking them out of the oven?
Let the fries cool slightly before serving to allow them to firm up and reach the ideal eating temperature.
Are the herbs used fresh or dried?
This recipe specifically calls for dried oregano and dried thyme.
How many ingredients are in this recipe in total?
There are 13 ingredients including the potatoes, oil, and various spices.
Can I use this seasoning for other things?
While designed for fries, this Cajun spice paste can serve as a flavor-packed base for other roasted vegetables.