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French fries might be the ultimate comfort food, but when you’re keeping resolutions for healthy eating, they’re usually the first to go.
Before you remove the humble potato from your diet completely, consider trying this easy recipe for Oven Baked French Fries.
Just as crispy. Not as guilty.
Ingredients
Seasoning Mix (optional):

  • 2 Tablespoons seasoned salt
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/8 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/8 teaspoon black pepper

For the Fries:

  • 3 medium russet potatoes (russet are the best choice for perfect crispy fries)
  • 1-2 Tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 Tablespoons grated Parmesan (optional)

Directions:

  1. Combine seasoning ingredients in small bowl; set aside.
  2. Wash and peel the potatoes (or don’t. Your call.) Cut off the ends. With a very sharp knife, cut the potatoes into thin slices about 1/4 inch wide.
  3. Add the fries to a large bowl and cover with cold water. Soak at least 30 minutes or as long as overnight. **Place in fridge if soaking more than an hour.**
  4. After soaking, drain, rinse, and lay the fries on paper towels to dry. Blot the tops with additional paper towels to absorb any excess moisture.
  5. Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
  6. Line a baking pan with parchment paper or foil and spray with non-stick spray. In large, dry bowl, toss the potatoes with 1-2 tablespoons of oil and 1/2 – 1 Tablespoon of the seasoning mix based on how much salt you prefer.
  7. Spread fries in a single layer on baking pan. Don’t overlap or fries won’t cook properly. Bake for about 30 minutes, flipping with a spatula once or twice.
  8. Raise oven to 425 degrees and roast fries until golden brown and ends look a little burnt.
  9. Sprinkle the fries with remainder of seasoning mix and Parmesan cheese (optional). Serve immediately.

Adapted from Layers of Happiness.
A few quick notes:

  • Soaking is important because it removes the potato’s starch and allows it to crisp better.
  • Can substitute sweet potato fries, but soaking is NOT recommended for those.
  • Reheat in oven rather than microwave to avoid limp fries.