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**Instructions:**
1. **Prep the Potatoes:**
– Start by washing the potatoes thoroughly. You can peel them if you prefer, but leaving the skin on will give them a nice texture and extra nutrients. Cut the potatoes into even-sized wedges or fries – the size of your fries will affect the crispiness, so try to keep them about the same size.
2. **Soak the Potatoes:**
– To ensure your fries are super crispy, soak the cut potatoes in cold water for at least 30 minutes. This removes excess starch and helps them crisp up during baking.
3. **Season the Potatoes:**
– Once the potatoes have soaked, drain them and pat them dry with a kitchen towel. This step is crucial for getting crispy fries, as excess moisture will prevent them from crisping up.
– Toss the fries in a large bowl with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Make sure every piece is evenly coated.
4. **Bake the Fries:**
– Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup.
– Spread the seasoned fries in a single layer on the baking sheet, making sure they aren’t crowded. If they’re too close together, they’ll steam instead of crisping up.
– Bake for 30-40 minutes, flipping the fries halfway through. You’ll know they’re done when they’re golden brown and crispy on the outside.
5. **Garnish and Serve:**
– Once your fries are out of the oven, sprinkle them with some fresh parsley or chives for a burst of color and flavor.
– Serve them with your favorite dipping sauces, such as ketchup, ranch, or aioli.
**Tips for Perfect Fries:**
– If you want extra crispy fries, try dusting them with a little cornstarch before baking.
– For a healthier option, you can use an air fryer instead of baking them in the oven. It will cut down on the oil and still deliver a crispy result!
– Experiment with different seasonings like cayenne pepper, Parmesan, or fresh herbs to make these fries your own.
**Why These Fries Are Better Than McDonald’s:**
– **Freshness**: No preservatives or additives. Just fresh, wholesome ingredients.
– **Crispiness**: Soaking the potatoes and baking them at the right temperature ensures a perfect crispy texture every time.
– **Customization**: You can adjust the seasoning to your liking, whether you prefer classic salt or something a little more adventurous.
– **Healthier**: You control the amount of oil used, making these fries a healthier option than deep-fried fast food versions.
Next time you’re craving fries, skip the drive-thru and make these crispy, golden delights at home. Once you taste the difference, you might never go back to McDonald’s fries again! Enjoy your homemade, better-than-fast-food fries today!
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