Perfect loaded fries

Ingredients

• 4 Russet Potatoes (large, peeled and cut into 1‑inch sticks)
• 1 cup All-Purpose Flour (for batter, sifted)
• 1/2 cup Cornstarch (helps achieve extra crispness)
• 1 cup Cold Water (ice‑cold for batter)
• 4 cups Vegetable Oil (for deep‑frying, high smoke point)
• 2 cups Tortilla Strips (store‑bought or homemade, marinated)
• 2 tbsp Lime Juice (for marinating tortilla strips)
• 1 tbsp Chipotle in Adobo Sauce (finely minced)
• 1/2 cup Mayonnaise (full‑fat for best texture)
• 2 Avocado (ripe, for guacamole)
• 2 tbsp Cilantro (chopped)
• 1/2 tsp Salt
• 2 tbsp Unsalted Butter (for cheese sauce)
• 2 tbsp All-Purpose Flour (for roux in cheese sauce)
• 1 cup Milk (whole milk preferred)
• 1 cup Sharp Cheddar Cheese (grated)
• 1/4 cup Pickled Jalapeños (sliced)
• 3 Scallions (thinly sliced)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Potatoes

   Peel the potatoes and cut them into 1‑inch sticks. Rinse under cold water, then pat completely dry with paper towels.

   Time: PT10M

2. Make the Curly Batter

   In a mixing bowl whisk together 1 cup flour, 1/2 cup cornstarch, and a pinch of salt. Slowly whisk in 1 cup ice‑cold water until a smooth, slightly thick batter forms.

   Time: PT5M

3. Heat Oil for Frying

   Fill the deep fryer or pot with 4 cups vegetable oil and heat to 350°F (175°C). Use the thermometer to verify temperature.

   Time: PT5M

   Temperature: 350°F

4. Fry the Curly Fries

   Working in small batches, dip the potato sticks into the batter, letting excess drip off, then carefully lower into hot oil. Fry until golden‑brown and extra crispy, about 4‑5 minutes per batch.

   Time: PT12M

   Temperature: 350°F

5. Marinate Tortilla Strips

   In a bowl combine tortilla strips, 2 tbsp lime juice, 1 tbsp chipotle in adobo, and a pinch of salt. Let sit while fries finish cooking.

   Time: PT5M

6. Prepare Chipotle Mayo

   Mix 1/2 cup mayonnaise with the remaining 1 tsp minced chipotle in adobo and a squeeze of lime juice. Set aside.

   Time: PT2M

7. Make Guacamole

   In a bowl mash 2 ripe avocados, add 2 tbsp chopped cilantro, 1/2 tsp salt, and a splash of lime juice. Mix until just combined.

   Time: PT3M

8. Prepare Cheese Sauce

   Melt 2 tbsp butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in 2 tbsp flour and cook 1 minute (roux). Slowly whisk in 1 cup milk, simmer until thickened, then stir in 1 cup grated sharp cheddar until smooth.

   Time: PT8M

   Temperature: Medium heat

9. Assemble the Loaded Fries

   On a large serving platter, spread the hot curly fries. Drizzle with chipotle mayo, then dollop guacamole. Sprinkle cheese sauce evenly, add marinated tortilla strips, pickled jalapeño slices, and finish with sliced scallions.

   Time: PT5M

Nutrition Facts

Calories

820

Protein

12g

Carbohydrates

68g

Fat

50g

Fiber

8g