Try These Oven-baked French Fries | Jacques Pépin Cooking at Home | KQED

Oven-Baked French Fries Recipe

Ingredients

• 1.5 pounds of potatoes (skin on or peeled if damaged)
• 2 to 3 tablespoons peanut oil (can substitute with other oils)
• About 1 teaspoon Spanish paprika (for color)
• About 1 teaspoon herbes de Provence
• Salt (added after baking)

Equipment and Preparation

• Oven preheated to 425°F (hot oven)
• Non-stick baking pan
• Paper towels or kitchen towel for drying potatoes

Method

1. Wash the potatoes thoroughly.
2. Dry the potatoes completely using paper towels to remove all moisture.
3. Cut potatoes into standard french fry shapes.
4. Toss the dry potatoes with 2-3 tablespoons of peanut oil, 1 teaspoon paprika, and 1 teaspoon herbes de Provence. Do not add salt yet.
5. Spread the potatoes evenly on a non-stick baking pan.
6. Bake in the preheated oven at 425°F for approximately 45 minutes.
7. After baking, sprinkle salt to taste on the fries.
8. Serve immediately.

Chef Tips

• Keeping the skin on is optional; remove only damaged parts.
• Drying the potatoes well is important to avoid discoloration and ensure crispness.
• Salt is added after baking to avoid drawing out moisture during cooking.
• Using the oven method reduces oil usage and calories compared to deep frying.
• The paprika adds color and mild flavor.
• Herbes de Provence adds aromatic notes.

Variations

• Skin can be removed or left on depending on preference.
• Different oils can be used instead of peanut oil.
• Seasonings can be adjusted or omitted as desired.

---

Presenter: Jacques Pépin Channel/Series: Cooking at Home | KQED