Zesty Shoestring Fries
Crispy, golden, and packed with bold, zesty flavors, these Zesty Shoestring Fries are the ultimate snack or side dish! Imagine thin, crunchy fries coated in a mouthwatering blend of spices—they’re light, addictive, and bursting with flavor in every bite. Whether you’re serving them up with burgers, sandwiches, or just on their own, these fries will steal the show!
Why You’ll Love Zesty Shoestring Fries
Versatile Perfect as a side dish, appetizer, or even a snack on its own.
Budget-Friendly Uses simple pantry ingredients to make a restaurant-style treat at home.
Quick and Easy No complicated steps—just slice, season, and fry!
Customizable Adjust the spice level and seasonings to your liking.
Crowd-Pleasing Crispy, flavorful, and totally irresistible—everyone will love them!
Ingredients
Ingredients in Zesty Shoestring Fries
The secret to perfectly crispy shoestring fries lies in simple, fresh ingredients and a bold seasoning blend.
Russet Potatoes The best choice for crispy, golden fries.
Cornstarch Helps create that extra crispy texture.
Olive Oil Gives the fries a light, golden crunch.
Garlic Powder Adds a deep, savory flavor.
Paprika Brings a smoky warmth to the fries.
Cayenne Pepper A touch of heat for a zesty kick (optional but recommended!).
Salt & Black Pepper The classic seasoning duo for perfectly balanced flavor.
Parmesan Cheese (Optional) For a cheesy, salty boost.
Fresh Herbs (Optional) Chopped parsley or cilantro for a pop of freshness.
(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Let’s turn these simple ingredients into perfectly crispy, flavorful shoestring fries!
Prepare the Potatoes Wash, peel (optional), and slice potatoes into thin matchstick-sized pieces using a sharp knife or a mandoline.
Soak the Potatoes Place the sliced potatoes in a bowl of cold water for at least 30 minutes to remove excess starch. Drain and pat completely dry.
Coat with Cornstarch In a large bowl, toss the dried potatoes with cornstarch until lightly coated.
Heat the Oil In a deep pan or fryer, heat oil to 350°F (175°C).
Fry in Batches Carefully drop small batches of potatoes into the hot oil. Fry for 2-3 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
Drain & Season Remove fries from the oil, place them on a paper towel-lined plate, and immediately sprinkle with garlic powder, paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper.
Serve & Enjoy Toss with grated Parmesan and fresh herbs (if using), then serve hot!
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
Calories per serving Approx. 250-300 calories
(Note: Nutrition values may vary based on ingredients and frying method.)
Preparation Time
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
How to Serve Zesty Shoestring Fries
These crispy fries are amazing on their own but even better with:
- Dipping Sauces Ketchup, ranch, garlic aioli, or spicy mayo.
- Loaded Fries Top with cheese, jalapeños, and sour cream for an indulgent treat.
- Burger Sidekick The perfect crispy companion to any burger.
- Salad Topping Add a crunchy twist to salads or grain bowls.
- Breakfast Fries Serve with eggs and bacon for a morning upgrade.
Additional Tips
- Slice Evenly For consistent frying and crispiness.
- Use Cold Water Soak This removes excess starch and makes the fries extra crispy.
- Double-Fry for Extra Crunch Fry once at 325°F, then again at 375°F for max crisp.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Oil Fry in small batches to keep them crispy and golden.
- Try an Air Fryer Cook at 400°F for 15-18 minutes, shaking halfway through.
FAQ’s
1. Can I bake these fries instead of frying?
Yes! Toss with olive oil and seasonings, then bake at 425°F for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway.
2. How do I prevent soggy fries?
Soak in cold water, dry thoroughly, and avoid overcrowding the pan when frying.
3. Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Par-cook (fry once), then freeze. Reheat by refrying or baking.
4. Can I use sweet potatoes?
Absolutely! They’ll be slightly softer but still delicious and crispy.
5. What’s the best oil for frying?
Use canola, peanut, or vegetable oil for the crispiest results.
6. How can I add more flavor?
Try adding chili powder, onion powder, or even a squeeze of lime after frying.
7. How do I store leftovers?
Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven for crispiness.
8. Can I air fry them instead?
Yes! Air fry at 400°F for 15-18 minutes, tossing halfway through.
9. Do I need to peel the potatoes?
Nope! The skin adds extra texture and flavor—totally up to you.
10. Can I freeze shoestring fries?
Yes! Freeze after the first fry, then reheat in hot oil or an air fryer.
Conclusion
These Zesty Shoestring Fries are the ultimate crispy, flavorful, and totally addictive side dish! Whether you’re serving them with burgers, dipping them in your favorite sauce, or just snacking straight from the plate, they’re a must-try recipe. Give them a shot and get ready for the crispiest, most delicious homemade fries ever!
PrintZesty Shoestring Fries
Zesty Shoestring Fries are crispy, thin-cut fries packed with bold flavors. Coated with a blend of zesty seasonings, these golden fries are the perfect snack or side dish for burgers, sandwiches, or as a standalone treat.
- Prep Time: 40 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish, Snack
- Method: Frying, Baking, Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
1. Wash and peel the potatoes. Use a mandoline slicer or sharp knife to cut them into thin shoestring-sized strips.
2. Place the cut potatoes in a large bowl of cold water and soak for 30 minutes to remove excess starch.
3. Drain and pat the potatoes dry with a clean kitchen towel.
4. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, oregano, and smoked paprika.
5. Toss the dried potato strips with olive oil and the seasoning mixture until evenly coated.
6. Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or fryer to 350°F (175°C).
7. Fry the potatoes in batches, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and crispy (about 2–3 minutes per batch).
8. Remove fries with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
9. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy!
Instructions
1. Wash and peel the potatoes. Use a mandoline slicer or sharp knife to cut them into thin shoestring-sized strips.
2. Place the cut potatoes in a large bowl of cold water and soak for 30 minutes to remove excess starch.
3. Drain and pat the potatoes dry with a clean kitchen towel.
4. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, oregano, and smoked paprika.
5. Toss the dried potato strips with olive oil and the seasoning mixture until evenly coated.
6. Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or fryer to 350°F (175°C).
7. Fry the potatoes in batches, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and crispy (about 2-3 minutes per batch).
8. Remove fries with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
9. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy!
Notes
– For extra crispiness, double fry the potatoes by frying once at 325°F (160°C) for 2 minutes, then frying again at 375°F (190°C) for 1-2 minutes.
– Baking option: Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
– Air fryer option: Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway.
– Serve with ranch, ketchup, or spicy mayo for added flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
