Oven Fries with Garlic and Parsley

Convection oven fries, crisper than deep-fried!

Oven fries are easy to prepare, and the results will amaze you. The cooking time is fairly quick, only 25 minutes. However, the cut potatoes do need to soak in ice water for at least 15 minutes before cooking to remove the excess starch. Once they are drained and perfectly dry, they are ready to go into the oven.

I was fortunate to have some duck fat in the freezer, which may have contributed to the extra crispness of my fries; however, any good heat-tolerant oil, even olive oil, will work well. The key is to heat the oil before adding the dry potatoes, as shown in the video. So be sure to stage your oven to heat the oil and then safely fold the potatoes. If your oven is equipped with an extension rack, it will be easy for you to handle a tray with hot oil when it's time to fold in the potatoes.

When working with hot oil, take the time to prepare everything carefully so you can work safely.

INGREDIENTS

2 large baking potatoes, scrubbed or peeled and cut into 1/3" wide fries

1/4 cup olive oil, duck fat, or grape seed oil

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 tbsp finely chopped Italian parsley leaves

Salt and freshly ground pepper

PREPARATION

Immerse the prepared fries in a large bowl of ice water and set aside to soak for 15 minutes.

Drain and rinse the fries and dry them completely. Place them in a bowl and sprinkle them with kosher salt.

Arrange the oven racks so that you can bake the fries on rack position 1 (electric ovens) or 2 (gas ovens), and heat the oven in the Convection Bake or Convection Roast mode to 425 F.

When the oven comes to temperature, place a heavy-rimmed baking sheet on the oven rack and add the oil. Close the door and let the oil heat for a few minutes. Carefully fold the prepared potatoes into the hot oil, slide the rack back into the oven, close the door, and set the timer for 15 minutes.

When the timer elapses, carefully extend the rack and turn the fries so they bake evenly. Close the oven door and cook the fries for 15 - 20 minutes until crisp and golden.

Transfer the cooked fries to a bowl or platter with a slotted spoon or spatula and toss with the chopped garlic, parsley, and freshly ground pepper. Add a scattering of sea salt, such as Maldon flakes, for a sensational finish.

Meanwhile, combine the chopped parsley and garlic in a small bowl and set aside.

4 Servings