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I’ll never forget the first time I tried carrot fries. I was at a little cafe in Portland, feeling adventurous, and saw them on the menu. Skeptical, sure, but one bite and bam!—I was a convert. The natural sweetness of the carrots, caramelized to perfection, was a revelation. But, being me, I couldn't just leave it at that. I needed a KICK. Hence, the birth of these Spicy Sriracha Mayo Carrot Fries! They've become a staple at my place ever since. This recipe? It's my attempt to bottle that magic for you.
What's incredible about these fries is how surprisingly easy they are to make. Seriously, even if you think you can't cook, you can nail this. It's all about the right balance of seasonings and ensuring the carrots are properly prepped. And that sriracha mayo? It's not just a dip; it's a flavor EXPLOSION. Sweet, spicy, creamy—it's the yin to the carrot fries' yang. If you don't like Sriracha, no worries! Use whatever you like, like a sweet chili sauce instead. You are free to play around with it.
Picture this: you're settling in for movie night, craving something indulgent but not wanting the guilt. Enter these carrot fries. They’re the PERFECT snack. Kids love them, adults love them, even that picky eater in your family (we all have one, right?) might just surprise you. Serve them as a side with burgers, sandwiches, or even as a star appetizer at your next gathering. Seriously, they are a crowd-pleaser. These fries are more than just a recipe; they're an experience. They're proof that healthy can be fun, flavorful, and downright addictive. So, grab your carrots, preheat that oven, and let's get frying—the healthy way!
Required Equipments
Baking Sheet
Parchment Paper
Large Bowl
Small Bowl
Whisk
Vegetable Peeler
Knife
Spicy Sriracha Mayo Carrot Fries: Frequently Asked Questions
Spicy Sriracha Mayo Carrot Fries
Transform ordinary carrots into extraordinary Spicy Sriracha Mayo Carrot Fries! Crispy, flavorful, and served with a creamy, spicy dipping sauce, these fries are a healthier and tastier alternative to traditional potato fries.
⏳ Yield & Time
Yield:2 servings
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time:
🍽 Ingredients
📖 Instructions
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the carrots will caramelize beautifully and get that crispy texture we're after. Trust me, patience is key here; a hot oven is your best friend.
Wash and peel about 1.5 pounds of carrots. Aim for medium-sized carrots, not too thick, not too thin. You want them to cook evenly.
Cut the carrots into fry shapes. This is where things get personal. I prefer cutting them about 1/4-inch thick. Aim for uniformity; the more similar in size, the more evenly they'll cook. Nobody wants a soggy fry next to a burnt one!
In a large bowl, toss the carrot fries with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Make sure every fry is coated; this is crucial for achieving that golden-brown crispiness. Nobody wants a dry fry, right?
Add your spices: 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika (for that smoky depth), 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder (because garlic makes everything better), 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper (for a subtle kick), and salt and pepper to taste. I usually go generous on the salt; it brings out the sweetness of the carrots.
Spread the seasoned carrot fries in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This is SUPER important. Overcrowding the pan will steam the carrots instead of roasting them. Give them space to breathe and get crispy!
Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the fries are tender and golden brown. Keep a close eye on them; ovens vary, and you don't want them to burn. The edges should be slightly caramelized and crispy.
While the fries are baking, prepare the Sriracha Mayo. In a small bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup of mayonnaise, 1-2 tablespoons of Sriracha (depending on your heat preference), 1 teaspoon of lime juice (for brightness), and a pinch of salt. Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed. Pro tip: Let it sit in the fridge for at least 10 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Remove the carrot fries from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Serve immediately with the Sriracha Mayo for dipping. Enjoy the crispy, spicy, sweet goodness! Oh, and don't be surprised if they disappear quickly.
📝 Notes
For extra crispy fries, try soaking the cut carrots in ice water for 30 minutes before roasting. This helps remove excess starch.
Adjust the amount of Sriracha to suit your spice preference. Start with less and add more to taste.
Feel free to experiment with other spices! Cumin, chili powder, or even a touch of cinnamon can add a unique flavor.
A dash of spice, a sprinkle of love, and a whole lot of fun—that's what cooking is all about! Don't be afraid to experiment; the best dishes are often happy accidents.