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### **Instructions:**
#### **Step 1: Prep the Potatoes**
1. **Wash and Peel**: Begin by thoroughly washing the potatoes. You can peel them if you prefer, or leave the skin on for extra texture and nutrients.
2. **Cut into Fries**: Slice the potatoes into evenly-sized sticks, about 1/4 inch thick. The uniform size ensures they cook at the same rate.
#### **Step 2: Soak the Potatoes**
1. **Soak in Water**: To remove excess starch (which can make the fries soggy), place the cut potatoes into a bowl of cold water. Let them soak for at least 30 minutes—longer if you have time. Soaking helps to achieve a crispier result when baking.
2. **Dry Thoroughly**: After soaking, drain and pat the potatoes dry using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. The drier they are, the crispier they will get in the oven.
#### **Step 3: Add Cornstarch (Optional)**
1. **Coat in Cornstarch**: To achieve an extra crispy texture, toss the dried potato sticks in cornstarch. This step is optional, but it makes a noticeable difference in achieving crispiness without oil.
#### **Step 4: Season the Fries**
1. **Seasoning**: Toss the fries in a bowl with salt, pepper, and any additional seasonings of your choice. You can go simple with just salt and pepper, or get creative with garlic powder, paprika, or even a touch of cayenne for heat.
#### **Step 5: Bake at High Heat**
1. **Preheat the Oven**: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). High heat is crucial for achieving that golden, crispy exterior.
2. **Arrange Fries on a Baking Sheet**: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Spread the fries in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Overcrowding can cause them to steam instead of crisping up.
#### **Step 6: Bake and Flip**
1. **Bake for 20 Minutes**: Place the fries in the preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes. After 10 minutes, flip the fries over to ensure they cook evenly on both sides.
2. **Check for Crispiness**: After the total 20-minute baking time, check the fries. If they’re not crispy enough, bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, keeping a close eye on them to avoid burning.
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### **Serving Suggestions:**
– Serve your crispy fries with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ketchup, mayonnaise, or a homemade garlic aioli.
– Pair them with a side of grilled vegetables or a light salad to balance out the meal.
– Make a quick loaded fries dish by adding a sprinkle of cheese, green onions, and a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt.
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### **Why This Method Works:**
1. **Soaking Removes Starch**: Soaking the potatoes in water removes excess starch, which helps the fries become crispier when baked.
2. **Cornstarch for Extra Crunch**: Cornstarch forms a light coating on the potatoes that crisps up beautifully in the oven.
3. **High Heat**: Baking at a high temperature ensures the fries cook quickly and evenly, forming that golden, crispy exterior while maintaining a soft interior.
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### **Tips for Perfect Oil-Free Fries:**
– **Use Russet Potatoes**: Russet potatoes are starchy and yield the best results for crispy fries.
– **Don’t Skip the Drying Step**: Ensure the potatoes are completely dry before baking. Any moisture will result in soggy fries.
– **Spacing is Key**: Spread the fries in a single layer and avoid overcrowding. This allows for even heat circulation and maximum crispiness.
– **Experiment with Seasoning**: You can customize the flavor of your fries with various seasonings like smoked paprika, nutritional yeast, or Italian herbs for an extra kick.
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### **Conclusion:**
Who says you need oil to make crispy, delicious fries? With the right preparation and baking technique, you can enjoy perfectly golden fries with a satisfying crunch, all while cutting back on the excess fat. Whether you’re craving a healthier snack or looking for an oil-free side dish, these crispy fries are sure to be a hit.
Try this easy, oil-free method today and enjoy a guilt-free treat that’s crispy, flavorful, and irresistibly delicious!
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