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Ingredients
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Vegetables
Coating & Seasoning
Finishing (optional)
Method
Prep Vegetables
- 1
Wash and peel
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Wash all vegetables thoroughly. Peel the russet potatoes, sweet potatoes, carrots and parsnips if desired (leave skin on for russet and sweet potato if you prefer more texture).
- 2
Cut into fries
Cut vegetables into 1/4- to 1/2-inch thick sticks so they are similar in size for even cooking. Aim for 3–4 inch lengths. Place cut fries into separate bowls of cold water as you go to remove excess starch and prevent browning.
- 3
Soak
Soak the potato (russet and sweet) sticks in cold water for 20–30 minutes. Soaking removes surface starch and helps achieve crisper fries. Carrots and parsnips can soak for 10–15 minutes if desired.
- 4
Dry thoroughly
Drain the vegetables and pat them completely dry with clean kitchen towels or paper towels. Removing moisture is essential so fries crisp instead of steaming.
Season & Coat
- 5
In a large mixing bowl combine the dried vegetable sticks. Sprinkle the cornstarch over the vegetables and toss to coat evenly — cornstarch gives a light crisp exterior. Drizzle the olive oil over the vegetables and toss again to coat each piece lightly.
- 6
Add garlic powder, smoked paprika, dried thyme, ground black pepper, and kosher salt. Toss well so the seasoning is evenly distributed. Taste a small piece (if cooled) and adjust salt or paprika to preference.
Bake
- 7
Arrange the coated fries in a single layer on two large baking sheets lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Do not overcrowd — pieces should not touch much. If needed, use three sheets and bake in batches.
- 8
Place baking sheets on the middle and upper racks of the preheated oven. Bake for 25 minutes, then rotate the sheets between racks and flip the fries with a spatula to encourage even browning.
- 9
Continue baking for another 10–15 minutes, or until fries are golden and crisp at the edges. Total bake time will be about 35–40 minutes depending on thickness and oven; thinner fries may crisp sooner.
Finish & Serve
- 10
When fries are done, remove from oven and immediately sprinkle with the chopped parsley and grated Parmesan if using, and adjust salt to taste. Toss gently on the sheet to distribute toppings.
- 11