Oven Baked Shawarma Spiced Fries: 5 Irresistible Secrets

Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my new obsession: Oven Baked Shawarma Spiced Fries! Seriously, these fries are a flavor explosion that’ll have you coming back for more. Picture perfectly crispy potatoes coated in warm spices like cumin, paprika, and a hint of cayenne—yum! They’re not just any fries; they bring a Middle Eastern twist that pairs beautifully with so many meals. Whether you’re serving them with grilled chicken, a veggie burger, or just enjoying them on their own, they’re sure to steal the show.

I stumbled upon this recipe during a cooking night with friends, and we were all blown away by how simple and delicious they turned out. The best part? They’re healthier than traditional fries because they’re baked, not fried! Plus, you get to whip up a creamy white harissa dip that takes these fries to a whole new level. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll be dreaming about making them again!

Ingredients List

• ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoons water
• 1 tablespoon tahini
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 garlic clove, finely minced
• ½ teaspoon ground cumin
• ½ teaspoon ground coriander
• ½ teaspoon red chili flakes
• ¼ teaspoon ground caraway
• Salt, to taste
• 2 pounds Russet potatoes, cut into ¼-inch thick sticks
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 2 teaspoons paprika
• 1 ½ teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 ½ teaspoons ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 6 tablespoons olive oil
• ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

How to Prepare Oven Baked Shawarma Spiced Fries

Preheat and Prepare

First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 375 degrees F. While that’s heating up, line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This little step ensures your fries don’t stick and makes cleanup a breeze—trust me, you’ll thank yourself later!

Make the White Harissa Dip

Now, let’s whip up that creamy white harissa dip! In a medium bowl, combine the plain Greek yogurt, water, tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, ground cumin, ground coriander, red chili flakes, and ground caraway. Give it a good stir until everything is nicely blended, and don’t forget to season with salt to taste. Set it aside while you prep the fries.

Prepare the Potatoes

Grab those Russet potatoes and slice them into ¼-inch thick sticks. Soak the sliced potatoes in hot water for about 10 minutes—this helps them get crispy in the oven! After soaking, drain the potatoes and pat them dry with a kitchen towel. In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, paprika, ground cumin, ground coriander, salt, turmeric, and cayenne. Toss the dry potatoes with olive oil and this spice blend until every fry is coated in deliciousness!

Baking Instructions

Spread the seasoned potatoes out in a single layer on your prepared baking sheets. Pop them in the oven and bake for 20 minutes, rotating the pans halfway through to ensure even cooking. After that, crank the oven temperature up to 425 degrees F and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until they’re golden brown and crispy. Your kitchen will smell absolutely divine!

Finishing Touches

Once your fries are done, transfer them to a plate and sprinkle with crumbled feta and chopped parsley. Serve them hot with that luscious white harissa dip on the side for dipping. Enjoy every bite!

Nutritional Information

Keep in mind that the nutritional values may vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. The information provided is an estimate and not a precise measurement. Always feel free to check the labels for a more accurate breakdown, especially if you’re keeping an eye on particular dietary needs!

Tips for Success

To make the best Oven Baked Shawarma Spiced Fries, start with the right potatoes—Russet potatoes are my go-to for their high starch content, which yields that perfect crispy texture. Make sure to soak the cut fries in hot water for at least 10 minutes; this step is crucial for achieving that delightful crunch! When baking, give your fries plenty of room on the baking sheets—crowded fries can steam instead of crisping up. And don’t skip the rotating step; it helps ensure even baking and golden-brown perfection. Trust me, these little tweaks make all the difference!

Variations

If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many ways to switch up these Oven Baked Shawarma Spiced Fries! For a spicy kick, try adding some harissa paste to the olive oil before tossing the fries. Want a cheesy twist? Substitute the feta with crumbled goat cheese or even a sprinkle of Parmesan for a different flavor profile. You can also experiment with seasonings—try adding za’atar for a herby taste or curry powder for a unique flair. The options are endless!

Serving Suggestions

These Oven Baked Shawarma Spiced Fries are so versatile and can elevate any meal! Serve them alongside grilled chicken or lamb for a delightful Middle Eastern feast. They also pair beautifully with a fresh salad, like a tabbouleh or a simple cucumber tomato salad, to balance the flavors. For a fun twist, enjoy them with a cold, tangy beverage like a mint lemonade or a crisp lager. Trust me, they’ll take your meal to the next level!

FAQ Section

Q1. Can I make these Oven Baked Shawarma Spiced Fries ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prep the fries and even make the white harissa dip the day before. Just store them separately in the fridge and bake the fries fresh when you’re ready to serve.

Q2. What other dips can I serve with these fries?
If you want to switch things up, try serving these fries with a garlic aioli or a spicy ketchup. A tangy tzatziki would also complement the flavors beautifully!

Q3. How can I make these fries spicier?
For those who love heat, increase the cayenne pepper or add a dash of hot sauce to the olive oil before tossing the fries. You can also sprinkle some extra red chili flakes on top after baking.

Q4. Can I use sweet potatoes instead of Russet potatoes?
Yes, sweet potatoes would make a delicious alternative! Just keep in mind that they may require a slightly shorter baking time.

Q5. Are these fries suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! These Oven Baked Shawarma Spiced Fries store well in the fridge for a few days. Just reheat them in the oven to get that crispiness back!

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