Welcome to the world of crispy potato wedges! This guide will delve into everything you need to know about this delicious and versatile dish, from understanding the difference between fries and wedges to creating the perfect crispy texture.
What’s the Difference Between Fries and Wedges?
While both fries and wedges are potato-based, they differ in shape, cooking method, and texture.
Shape:
- Fries: Typically cut into thin strips or julienned.
- Wedges: Sliced radially around the potato, creating a triangular shape.
Cooking Method:
- Fries: Usually fried, either once, twice (as in frites), or boiled then fried (as in French fries).
- Wedges: More commonly baked or roasted, although they can be deep-fried.
Texture:
- Fries: Aim for a super crispy exterior.
- Wedges: The wedge shape allows for a crispy exterior and a soft, fluffy interior.
Ingredients for Crispy Potato Wedges:
- Potatoes: Opt for waxy varieties like red or Yukon Gold potatoes for the best results.
- Oil: Don’t skimp on the oil for optimal crispiness.
- Salt: Season generously for flavor.
- Seasoning: Optional, but can add a flavorful touch.
- Dipping Sauce: A must-have for enhancing the potato wedges experience.
How to Make Crispy Potato Wedges:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Slice the potatoes into wedges of equal size.
- Soak the wedges in hot water for 10 minutes to remove excess starch.
- Drain and pat dry the wedges thoroughly.
- Toss the wedges with oil and salt.
- Arrange the wedges in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 20 minutes, then flip and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
- Top with Parmesan cheese and herbs, if desired.
- Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.
Tips for Extra Crispy Wedges:
- Soaking the potatoes in hot water: This helps remove excess starch, resulting in a crispier texture.
- Drying the potatoes thoroughly: Moisture is the enemy of crispiness, so patting the wedges dry is crucial.
- Using enough oil: Don’t be afraid to be generous with the oil, as it helps achieve a crispy exterior.
- Not overcrowding the baking sheet: Give the wedges space to breathe for optimal crispiness.
- Flipping halfway through baking: This ensures even browning and crispness on all sides.
Dipping Sauce Options:
- Spicy Chipotle Dipping Sauce: A combination of full-fat Greek yoghurt, lime juice, finely minced chipotle peppers, and a pinch of salt.
- Other options: Ranch dressing, garlic aioli, ketchup, or any other dipping sauce you enjoy.
Nutritional Benefits of Potatoes:
- Good source of vitamin B6: Essential for cell building, mood regulation, sleep, and stress management.
- Rich in potassium, copper, vitamin C, manganese, phosphorous, niacin, and dietary fiber.
- Leave the skin on for maximum fiber benefits.
Additional Recipes You Might Enjoy:
- Baked Zucchini Fries
- Crispy Roasted Garbanzo Beans
- Chickpea Fries
- Air Fryer Kale Chips
- Air Fryer Nachos
- Tofu Nuggets
Crispy potato wedges are a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed as an appetizer, side dish, or even a main course. By following the tips and instructions provided, you can create perfectly crispy wedges that will satisfy your cravings and impress your guests.
What about seasoning the wedges?
These wedges taste best when seasoned with just salt and pepper, then garnished with parsley and parmesan cheese. But occasionally, when I’m in the mood, I’ll use a mixture of smoked paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder, as you can see in the pictures above.
What do I need to make crispy potato wedges?
People, hold onto your hats—this is going to blow your mind. Youre gonna need some.
- Potatoes –> Wait, did you see that one coming?
- Oil –> Dont be skimpy here!
- Salt –> Lets make these legit!
- Seasoning –> This is totes optional. Sometimes I season and sometimes I dont.
- A killer dipping sauce –> More on this below.
These Crispy Potato Wedges are Even Better Than French Fries | Epicurious
FAQ
Are steak fries just wedges?
Are wedges healthier than fried?
What are potato wedges called in USA?
What’s the difference between French fries and fries?
What is the difference between fries and wedges?
However, there are many differences that set them apart. Fries and wedges are two different potato cuts. Fries are thinner, straighter, and typically cut 1/4″ to 1/3″ thick. Wedges are thicker, broader, and cut from 1/2″ to 1″ thick. Wedges are cut lengthwise, while fries are cut across the potato. Another difference is the cooking method.
Are sweet potato fries better than regular fries?
Sweet potato fries are very similar to regular fries. Both are not the healthiest option to choose from. They are fried, and potatoes are high in carbohydrates.
Which is better French fries or wedges?
Both french fries and wedges can be delicious and satisfying, and which one you prefer is a matter of personal taste. If you prefer thin and crispy fries, then french fries may be the better option for you. If you prefer a thicker and more substantial potato side dish, then wedges may be the better choice.
What is the difference between French fries and fries?
Excellent question. First of all, the shape is different. Fries are usually cut into strips or julienned, whereas wedges are sliced radially around the potato, so you’ve got a sort of triangle shape. Classically fries are either fried, twice fried (as in frites), or boiled then fried (as in French fries) to give them a super crispy exterior.