Spicy Cumin Fries

By khojnicki

Ingredients

• 2 lb. frozen crinkle cut french fries
• 1/2 c chopped dried red chiles, such as cayenne or arbol
• 1/4 c vegetable oil
• 2 tbsp whole cumin seeds
• 1 tbsp Sichuan peppercorns
• Kosher salt
• 4 scallions, chopped

Preparation

Step 1

Position racks in the upper and lower thirds of the oven and preheat to 450 degrees F. Line 2 rimmed baking sheets with foil, then divide the fries between them. Bake tossing once or twice, until crisp and golden brown, 30-45 mins. Transfer to a large bowl.

Place the chiles in a bowl, cover with a plate and shake to release the seeds. Fish out the chiles, leaving the seeds behind.

Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds, peppercorns, chopped chiles and 1 tsp salt and cook, stirring, until toasted, 2-3 mins. Stir in the scallions and remove from the heat.

Toss the fries with the spiced oil and season with salt. Remove and discard any large chile pieces.