Revamped French Fries

Who doesn't love a good side of fries with their meal? Unfortunately the "fry" part means lots of extra oil and, more often than not, excessive amounts of salt, particularly if coming from a fast food chain. Fortunately fries are extremely simple to make at home for very little money. The key to a crispy outside with a soft, tender inside is to toss the potato lightly in oil before roasting, to create a brown crust on the edges. Another advantage of making your own french fries is the freedom to add whatever flavors you like to create a more interesting and complex flavor. I personally like to add a little thyme and garlic to mine to enhance the dish.

Serves 4

Ingredients:

• 4 medium Russet potatoes (about 250g each) [Trader Joe's - $.79 each, $3.16 total]
  
• 2 tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• 1/2 tsp Salt
• 1/4 tsp Pepper
• 2 Garlic cloves, minced (optional)
  
• 2 tbsp Fresh Thyme, chopped (optional) [Trader Joe's - $1.99 for a package, $.25 used here]

Directions:

• Preheat oven to 375 degrees.

• Slice potatoes into rectangular french fry shapes. Rinse in cold water and pat dry.

• Put potatoes in a bowl with remaining ingredients and toss to coat evenly.

• Bake for 25-30 minutes on a foil-covered cookie sheet, until outsides begin to crisp and brown.

Total Cost:  $.85 per serving, $3.41 total
Nutrition Facts per serving: 263 calories, 7.1g fat (1g saturated, 0g trans), 0mg cholesterol, 304mg sodium, 46.6g carbohydrates, 3.8g fiber, 1.6g sugar, 5.6g protein, [Vit A 1%, Vit C 26%, Calcium 6%, Iron 22%].

 

(Serving suggestion)