Description
These Low Calorie French Fries bring the flavor of a soul food dinner without the heavy grease. By using a clever oven-baking method and a robust ‘soul seasoning’ blend—featuring smoked paprika, garlic, and a hint of cayenne—you get crispy, savory fries that satisfy your cravings for a fraction of the calories. Naturally gluten-free and vegan.
Ingredients
2 large Russet potatoes (the best starch content for crispiness)
1 tablespoon olive oil (or avocado oil)
— The Soul Seasoning Blend —
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon sea salt (or seasoned salt, ensure GF)
½ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little kick)
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or spray lightly with non-stick spray.
2. Prep the Potatoes: Scrub the potatoes clean (peeling is optional; leaving skin on adds fiber). Cut them into uniform sticks, about ¼ to ½ inch thick.
3. Soak (Crucial for Crispiness): Place the cut potatoes in a large bowl and cover with cold water. Let them soak for at least 30 minutes. This removes excess starch that makes fries soggy.
4. Dry Thoroughly: Drain the water and pat the potatoes completely dry with a clean kitchen towel. They must be bone-dry to crisp up!
5. Season: Wipe out the bowl to ensure it’s dry. Return the potatoes to the bowl. Drizzle with the 1 tablespoon of olive oil and toss to coat evenly.
6. Add the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne. Toss again until every fry is coated in the spice blend.
7. Arrange: Spread the fries in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Do not overcrowd them; they need space for air to circulate, or they will steam instead of roast.
8. Bake: Bake for 15 minutes. Remove from the oven and carefully flip the fries using a spatula.
9. Crisp: Return to the oven and bake for another 10–15 minutes, or until the fries are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
10. Serve: Taste and add a pinch more salt if needed while they are hot. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
Potato Choice: Russet potatoes are essential here. Waxy potatoes like red or Yukon Gold will result in softer fries.
The Soak: Don’t skip the soaking step! It makes a huge difference in texture.
Air Fryer Option: These cook perfectly in an air fryer! Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
Dip Pairing: Serve with a healthier dip like Greek yogurt mixed with hot sauce or a low-sugar ketchup.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Soul Food
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 1
- Sodium: 300
- Fat: 7
- Saturated Fat: 1
- Unsaturated Fat: 5
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 30
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 3
- Cholesterol: 0