Loaded Fries Recipe

Prepare potatoes

Wash and peel the potatoes if desired. Cut each potato into 1/4–1/2-inch thick sticks. Place cut fries in a large bowl of cold water and soak 20–30 minutes to remove excess starch.

Dry and season

Drain the potatoes and pat completely dry with clean kitchen towels or paper towels. In a bowl, toss fries with 1 tsp salt and 1 tsp black pepper to coat lightly.

Fry (deep-frying method)

Heat 4 cups vegetable oil in a heavy pot or deep fryer to 325°F (160°C). Fry the potatoes in batches for 3–4 minutes until tender but not browned. Remove and drain on paper towels. Increase oil temperature to 375°F (190°C) and fry batches again 2–3 minutes or until golden and crisp. Drain on paper towels and season immediately with a pinch of salt. (Alternative: bake at 425°F/220°C for 30–40 minutes, flipping halfway, tossed with 2 tbsp oil for a lighter version.)

Cook aromatics

While fries soak or fry, heat 1 tbsp oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add finely chopped onion and sauté 4–5 minutes until soft and translucent. Add minced garlic and chopped green chili; cook 30 seconds until fragrant.

Add tomato and spices

Add chopped tomato and cook 3–4 minutes until it breaks down. Stir in 1 tsp ground cumin, 1 tsp garam masala, 1/2 tsp red chili powder and 1/2 tsp salt. Cook another 2 minutes until the masala is well combined and slightly thickened. Taste and adjust seasoning.

Finish masala

Stir in 2 tbsp chopped cilantro and 1 tsp lemon juice. Remove from heat and keep warm until ready to assemble.

Assemble and melt cheese

Preheat oven broiler or set oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the hot crispy fries on an ovenproof platter or sheet. Spoon the warm masala evenly over the fries. Sprinkle 1.5 cups shredded cheddar and 0.5 cup shredded mozzarella evenly on top. Place under the broiler or in the oven for 2–4 minutes, watching closely, until cheese is melted and bubbly.

Prepare sauces

While cheese melts, combine 1/4 cup garlic sauce or mayonnaise with 1 tbsp hot sauce and 2 tbsp ketchup if using. Adjust heat and tang to taste. Transfer to a squeeze bottle or small bowl for drizzling.

Remove the loaded fries from the oven. Drizzle the prepared sauce evenly over the melted cheese. Sprinkle chopped spring onions, extra cilantro and 1/4 cup crushed tortilla chips or sev for crunch. Serve immediately while hot and crispy.