French-fried potato squares marinated in herbs are a delightful twist on classic French fries. These crispy, golden-brown squares are infused with the flavors of fresh herbs, garlic, and a hint of spice, making them an irresistible snack or side dish. The marination process allows the potatoes to absorb the rich, aromatic flavors, ensuring every bite is bursting with taste. Perfect for parties, gatherings, or as a gourmet treat at home, this recipe is easy to follow and guarantees a delicious outcome.
Ingredients:
- 4 large russet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary (crushed)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (finely chopped)
- ½ teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons white vinegar
- 1 cup cold water
- Oil for deep frying
Instructions:
- Prepare the Potatoes: Wash and peel the potatoes, then cut them into even-sized squares, approximately ½ inch thick.
- Soak in Vinegar Water: In a bowl, mix cold water with vinegar and soak the potato squares for 20–30 minutes. This step helps remove excess starch and enhances crispiness.
- Prepare the Herb Marinade: In a large mixing bowl, combine olive oil, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, rosemary, parsley, and chili flakes. Mix well to form a fragrant marinade.
- Marinate the Potatoes: Drain the potatoes from the vinegar water and pat them dry using a kitchen towel. Toss them into the herb marinade, ensuring each piece is well coated. Let them sit for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Preheat the Oil: Heat oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F (175°C). The oil should be hot enough to fry the potatoes evenly.
- First Frying: Fry the marinated potato squares in batches for about 3–4 minutes until they are light golden but not fully crispy. Remove and place them on a paper towel to drain excess oil.
- Rest and Cool: Allow the partially fried potatoes to rest for 5–10 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect crispiness in the second frying.
- Second Frying: Increase the oil temperature to 375°F (190°C) and fry the potato squares again for another 2–3 minutes until they turn deep golden brown and crispy.
- Drain and Serve: Remove the crispy potato squares from the oil and place them on a paper towel to absorb any excess oil.
- Garnish and Enjoy: Sprinkle with extra fresh parsley or a dash of sea salt before serving. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauce like garlic aioli, spicy ketchup, or cheese sauce for an extra burst of flavor.
These French-fried potato squares marinated in herbs offer the perfect balance of crispiness, flavor, and aroma. The double-frying technique ensures a crunchy exterior while keeping the inside soft and fluffy. Serve them hot and fresh, and watch them disappear in no time!