Baked Mexican French Fries with Salsa Ketchup
Are you ready to elevate your snack game? These Baked Mexican French Fries with Salsa Ketchup are not only delicious but also a healthier twist on a classic favorite. Crispy, flavorful, and topped with a zesty salsa ketchup, they’re perfect for game day, movie night, or just a fun dinner at home. Plus, they’re easy to make, and you probably already have most of the ingredients on hand!
Why It Deserves a Spot
Why should you make these Baked Mexican French Fries with Salsa Ketchup? Well, for starters, they are baked instead of fried, making them a lighter option without sacrificing flavor. The blend of spices adds a delightful kick, while the salsa ketchup brings a fresh twist that will make your taste buds dance. Perfectly crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, these fries are a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love. Whether you’re serving them as a side dish or enjoying them as a snack, they deserve a spot on your table!
What We’re Using
Let’s dive into the ingredients you’ll need to whip up these delicious fries:
- 2 medium russet potatoes (about 1 pound) – The star of our dish, russet potatoes are ideal for making crispy fries.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – This will help the fries crisp up beautifully in the oven.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch – A secret ingredient for achieving that extra crunch!
- 1/2 teaspoon salt – To enhance the flavors of the fries.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder – Adds a wonderful savory depth.
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper – For a hint of spice.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin – Brings a warm, earthy flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon chipotle chili pepper – For that smoky, spicy kick.
- 3 tablespoons ketchup – The base for our dipping sauce.
- 3 tablespoons salsa – Adds freshness and a burst of flavor to the ketchup.
- Hot sauce to taste – Optional, but recommended for those who like a little extra heat!
Prep & Cook Tools
Gathering the right tools will make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Cutting board – For chopping the potatoes.
- Sharp knife – A good knife makes cutting easier and safer.
- Large bowl – For mixing the fries with oil and spices.
- Baking sheet – To bake the fries and achieve that desired crispiness.
- Parchment paper – Optional, but it can help prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Measuring spoons – For accurate ingredient measurements.
- Mixing spoon – To mix the fries and seasonings thoroughly.
Baked Mexican French Fries with Salsa Ketchup Cooking Guide
Now, let’s get into the fun part – making these Baked Mexican French Fries with Salsa Ketchup! Follow these simple steps to create your delicious snack.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature is key to getting those fries crispy and golden.
Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes
Wash and scrub the russet potatoes thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt. No need to peel them; the skin adds extra texture and nutrients.
Step 3: Cut the Potatoes
Slice the potatoes into thin strips, about 1/4 inch thick. Try to keep them uniform in size for even cooking.
Step 4: Coat the Fries
In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, cornstarch, salt, garlic powder, pepper, cumin, and chipotle chili pepper. Add the cut potatoes and toss them well until they are evenly coated with the mixture.
Step 5: Arrange on Baking Sheet
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Spread the coated fries in a single layer on the sheet, ensuring they aren’t overcrowded. This will help them crisp up nicely.
Step 6: Bake the Fries
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, flipping the fries halfway through. Keep an eye on them as baking times can vary based on your oven and the thickness of the fries.
Step 7: Prepare the Salsa Ketchup
While the fries are baking, mix the ketchup and salsa in a small bowl. Adjust the amount of hot sauce to your taste. This zesty dip is what takes your fries to the next level!
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Once the fries are golden brown and crispy, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a minute. Serve them hot with your salsa ketchup on the side. Enjoy your Baked Mexican French Fries with Salsa Ketchup!
International Equivalents
Here are some equivalents to help you find the right ingredients no matter where you are:
- Potatoes: You can use Maris Piper or King Edward potatoes in the UK.
- Olive oil: Can be substituted with sunflower oil or canola oil.
- Cornstarch: Known as cornflour in the UK.
- Chipotle chili pepper: Use smoked paprika for a milder flavor.
- Salsa: You can also use pico de gallo for a fresh alternative.
Steer Clear of These
When making your Baked Mexican French Fries with Salsa Ketchup, here are a few things to avoid:
- Using too much oil: A tablespoon is enough for crisping without being greasy.
- Overcrowding the baking sheet: Give the fries space to ensure they crisp up properly.
- Skipping the cornstarch: It’s essential for achieving that perfect fry texture.
- Not preheating the oven: A hot oven is crucial for crispiness.
Storing Tips & Timelines
If you have leftovers (which is unlikely because they’re so good), here’s how to store them:
- Refrigerate: Store leftover fries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheat: For the best texture, reheat them in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 10 minutes.
- Do not freeze: The texture will not hold up well when reheated after freezing.
Reader Questions
Can I use other types of potatoes for this recipe?
Absolutely! While russet potatoes are ideal for fries, you can use Yukon Gold or sweet potatoes for a different flavor and texture. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly.
Is there a way to make these fries in an air fryer?
Yes! To make Baked Mexican French Fries with Salsa Ketchup in an air fryer, follow the same coating steps and cook at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking.
Can I make the salsa ketchup ahead of time?
Definitely! You can make the salsa ketchup a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just give it a good stir before serving to mix the ingredients well.
What can I serve these fries with?
These fries pair beautifully with a variety of dishes! Serve them alongside tacos, grilled chicken, or even a fresh salad for a complete meal. They’re also great as a standalone snack with your favorite dip!
Next Steps
Now that you’ve mastered the art of making Baked Mexican French Fries with Salsa Ketchup, it’s time to get creative! Consider adding your favorite toppings such as cheese, jalapeños, or fresh cilantro to take them to the next level. Don’t forget to experiment with different dipping sauces to find your favorite combination. Happy cooking!
Baked Mexican French Fries with Salsa Ketchup
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) for crispy fries.
- Step 2: Wash and scrub the russet potatoes thoroughly under running water.
- Step 3: Slice the potatoes into thin strips, about 1/4 inch thick.
- Step 4: In a large bowl, combine olive oil, cornstarch, salt, garlic powder, pepper, cumin, and chipotle chili pepper. Add the cut potatoes and toss until coated.
- Step 5: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and spread the coated fries in a single layer.
- Step 6: Bake for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden and crispy.
- Step 7: Mix ketchup and salsa in a small bowl, adjusting hot sauce to taste.
- Step 8: Serve hot with salsa ketchup on the side.
Notes
- For extra flavor, consider adding toppings like cheese or jalapeños.
- Try different dipping sauces for variety!
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
