Bonnie’s Best Blue Ribbon Oven-Baked Fries

Ingredients for Bonnie’s Best Blue Ribbon Oven-Baked Fries:

• 2 large baking potatoes, cut into strips about the size of regular fries
• 2 cups ice cubes (for soaking)
• 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese (from a shaker)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Note: You can also use this same recipe to make potato wedges, which pair wonderfully with fish!

Instructions:

1. Soak the Potatoes:
   Peel and slice the potatoes into fry-shaped strips. Place them in a bowl of water with about 2 cups of ice cubes. Soak for 30 minutes, then drain and pat dry with paper towels. It is important not to skip this step!
2. Prepare the Coating:
   In a plastic bag, combine the dry ingredients: Parmesan cheese, salt, garlic powder, paprika, and black pepper. Add the olive oil and give the bag a good shake to ensure the fries are evenly coated.
3. Bake the Fries:
   Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and spray with cooking spray if you’re using a regular cookie sheet. For best results, use an Aire Gourmet baking sheet, as it prevents olive oil from smoking at high temperatures and helps the fries turn a beautiful golden brown. (Alternatively, you can use parchment paper, ungreased, for easy removal of the fries after baking.)
4. Cook:
   Arrange the fries on the baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for 35 minutes, and there’s no need to turn the fries during cooking! The result is perfectly crispy and golden fries.

Enjoy these crispy oven-baked fries as a snack, side dish, or accompaniment to your favorite fish dishes!