Waffle fries might seem like something you can enjoy only in restaurants, but, with the proper tools, you can actually make them at home! All you need is a mandoline slicer, and these fries are within your reach. In the recipe below, they're tossed with a spice mix, like curly fries, for even more flavor.
A flour-based batter ensures this combo of paprika, garlic, onion and cayenne sticks to your fries and makes them crispy and flavorful. Serve them with ketchup, mayonnaise or both for a delicious restaurant-style side at home.
Waffle Fries
4
25 minutes
10 minutes
35 minutes
4 medium russet potatoes, washed
3 cups flour
2/3 cup paprika
1 1/2 tablespoons kosher salt
1 tablespoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon onion powder
1 tablespoon cayenne pepper
2 teaspoons black pepper
4 cups water
1 quart neutral frying oil
Set the fluted blade of a mandoline to 1/2-inch thickness. Slice the potatoes, rotating 90 degrees after every slice. Set the potatoes in a large bowl of water to prevent oxidation.
Preheat the oil in a deep fryer or very deep, heavy-bottomed pot, such as a cast-iron Dutch oven. Use a candy thermometer to monitor the frying temperature, and heat to 320 degrees.
Drain the potato slices, and pat them dry. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, then set aside on paper towels.
Whisk the flour, spices and water together in a bowl.
Heat the fryer to 375 degrees.
Dip the waffle fries in the batter, and allow excess to drip off. Fry each batch for 2 to 3 minutes until the fries are golden brown.
Remove the fries from the oil, and drain them on paper towels. Serve hot.