Get ready to transform your ordinary potato game into an explosive flavor experience! These oil-free Cajun fries aren't just a side dish – they're a crispy, zesty adventure that'll have you ditching greasy restaurant fries forever. Imagine perfectly seasoned, crunchy potato strips with a kick of Cajun spice, baked to golden perfection without a drop of oil. Whether you're a health-conscious foodie or a spice lover looking for a guilt-free indulgence, these fries are about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Vegan
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 large potatoes, cut into fries
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- Salt to taste
- Water for soaking
Instructions
- Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature will help achieve that perfect crunch on your fries.
- While the oven is preheating, wash and peel the potatoes if desired. Cut them into evenly sized fries, about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick. This will ensure they cook evenly.
- Once the potatoes are cut, place them in a large bowl and cover them with water. Let them soak for at least 30 minutes. Soaking helps to remove excess starch, which contributes to a crispier texture.
- After soaking, drain the potatoes and pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Removing excess moisture is key to achieving a crunchy finish.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the dried potato fries with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning and salt to taste. Toss the fries until they are evenly coated with the seasoning. If you prefer a more intense flavor, you can add more Cajun seasoning according to your taste.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Spread the seasoned fries in a single layer on the baking sheet, ensuring they are not overcrowded. This allows for even cooking and crispiness.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes. Halfway through the cooking time, remove the baking sheet and flip the fries using a spatula to ensure they cook evenly on all sides.
- Once the fries are golden brown and crispy, remove them from the oven. Allow them to cool for a few minutes before serving. This will help them crisp up even more as they cool slightly.
- Serve your crunchy baked Cajun fries warm, with your favorite dipping sauce or enjoy them as is. They make a great side dish or snack!
Tips
- • Potato Selection Matters: Choose starchy potatoes like Russet for the crispiest results. • Soaking is Crucial: Don't skip the 30-minute water soak – it removes excess starch and guarantees that satisfying crunch. • Dry Thoroughly: Pat those potato strips completely dry before seasoning to ensure maximum crispiness. • Even Cutting: Try to cut your fries in uniform sizes so they cook evenly. • Spread Them Out: Give your fries breathing room on the baking sheet – overcrowding means steaming, not crisping. • Flip Midway: Turning the fries halfway through cooking ensures an all-over golden, crispy texture. • Experiment with Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the Cajun spice to your heat tolerance. • Let Them Rest: Allow a few minutes of cooling time to achieve maximum crispiness.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 160kcal
Carbohydrates: 37g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 0g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
