French fried potato squares marinated in herbs

French Fried Potato Squares marinated in herbs is a delectable side dish or snack that combines the classic crispy texture of French fries with the fresh and vibrant flavors of herbs. This recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a casual get-together, a game night, or simply craving a tasty and satisfying snack. The key to this recipe lies in marinating the potato squares in a mixture of fresh herbs, cornstarch, salt, and pepper before frying them to golden perfection. Let’s dive into this simple yet delicious recipe.

Ingredients

• 4 large potatoes
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tablespoon chopped chives or green onions
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Oil for frying

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

1. Peel and Cut Potatoes: Peel the potatoes and cut them into 1-inch squares. Try to keep the pieces uniform for even cooking.
2. Soak in Water: Place the potato squares in a bowl of cold water to remove excess starch. Let them soak for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Marinate the Potatoes

1. Drain and Dry Potatoes: After soaking, drain the potatoes and pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.
2. Mix with Herbs and Seasonings: In a large bowl, combine the potatoes with chopped parsley, chives or green onions, cornstarch, salt, and black pepper. Toss until the potatoes are evenly coated.

Step 3: Fry the Potatoes

1. Heat Oil: In a large, deep skillet or fryer, heat enough oil to cover the potato squares. The oil should be heated to 350°F (175°C).
2. Fry in Batches: Carefully add the potato squares in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry them until they are golden brown and crispy, about 4-5 minutes per batch.
3. Drain Excess Oil: Use a slotted spoon to remove the fried potatoes from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 4: Serve

1. Garnish and Serve: Once all the potatoes are fried, transfer them to a serving plate. Garnish with additional chopped parsley and chives if desired. Serve immediately while hot and crispy.

Cooking Notes and Variations

Cooking Notes:

• Oil Temperature: Maintaining the correct oil temperature is crucial for crispy results. Use a thermometer to monitor the oil temperature.
• Uniform Pieces: Cutting the potatoes into uniform pieces ensures even cooking and consistent texture.

Variations:

• Cheesy Twist: Add grated Parmesan or cheddar cheese to the hot fried potatoes for a cheesy twist.
• Spicy Kick: Mix in some cayenne pepper or paprika with the herbs and seasonings for a spicy kick.
• Garlic Infusion: Add minced garlic to the herb mixture for a garlic-infused flavor.

Keto and Low-Carb Version

Ingredients:

• 4 large turnips or rutabagas (as a low-carb potato substitute)
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tablespoon chopped chives or green onions
• 2 tablespoons almond flour
• 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Oil for frying

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Turnips: Peel and cut the turnips into 1-inch squares. Follow the same soaking and drying process as with the potatoes.
2. Marinate: Toss the turnip squares with the herbs, almond flour, salt, and pepper.
3. Fry and Serve: Fry the turnip squares in hot oil until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I prepare the potatoes ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can peel and cut the potatoes ahead of time. Store them in a bowl of cold water in the refrigerator to prevent them from browning. Drain and pat them dry before marinating.

Q: What type of oil is best for frying?

A: Vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil are excellent choices for frying due to their high smoke points.

Q: Can I bake these instead of frying?

A: Yes, you can bake the potato squares. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C), spread the marinated potatoes on a baking sheet, and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden and crispy, flipping halfway through.

Q: How do I keep the potatoes crispy?

A: Serve the potatoes immediately after frying. You can also keep them warm in a low oven (200°F or 95°C) if you need to make multiple batches.

Q: Can I use other herbs?

A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different herbs like rosemary, thyme, or dill for varied flavors.

French Fried Potato Squares marinated in herbs offer a delicious and versatile way to enjoy the classic comfort of fried potatoes with a fresh and flavorful twist. Whether you’re serving them as a side dish, snack, or party appetizer, these crispy, herby potato squares are sure to be a hit. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, this recipe is perfect for both novice and experienced cooks. Try out the variations and the low-carb version to cater to different tastes and dietary preferences. Enjoy this delightful dish that combines the best of crispy texture and fresh herb flavors!