If you’re looking to add more variety to your diet, then there’s no better way than by adding healthy and nutritious foods like Greek fries to your daily meal plan.
What Are Greek Fries?
Greek fries are made from potatoes that have been cut into strips and deep-fried in oil until golden brown.
These chips can be served hot with dips or salads as well as cold with dips or appetizers.
The name “Greek fries” comes from the fact that they were originally created in Greece, but it has since become popular worldwide due to its versatility.
There are many different variations of these crispy potato chips including French fries, Hawaiian fries, sweet potato fries, and even vegan ones.
The following article will help you learn what makes them so special and how to make homemade Greek fries at home.
Ingredients needed for making greek fries
- Potatoes (any type)
- Oil (vegetable or olive)
- Salt & pepper
- Garlic powder/pepper seasoning
- Onion powder
- Vegan butter
- Sweeteners (if desired)
You do not need any additional ingredients unless you want to change up your favorite recipes.
How to make greek fries
It’s simple enough to make this tasty treat if you follow along with our step-by-step instructions below.
First off, prep all your ingredients.
Peel the potatoes and slice each one into 1 inch long pieces.
Then wash and dry the potatoes thoroughly before cutting them into thin strips using a mandolin slicer or knife.
Once you have finished slicing the potatoes, put them in a large bowl and toss them in some salt.
Let them sit on the countertop for about 20 minutes while the potatoes absorb the salt.
After letting the potatoes soak for a bit, pour 2 inches of vegetable oil onto a medium pot and place it over high heat.
Once the oil begins to bubble, turn down the temperature to medium low and let it heat up until it reaches 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
If you don’t have access to a thermometer, use two forks to test whether the oil is ready to fry.
When the oil starts to reach 350 degrees F, remove the pot from the stove top and carefully transfer the potatoes into the pot.
You should start frying the potatoes immediately because they will continue cooking once submerged in the oil.
Keep an eye on the potatoes and stir them occasionally to ensure that they cook evenly and quickly.
After 15 minutes, flip the potatoes around and repeat the process again.
Continue doing this every five minutes until the potatoes are cooked through completely.
Once everything is done, drain the fried chips on paper towels and pat them dry with another towel.
Place the chips back into the same bowl where they soaked previously and sprinkle generously with sea salt and garlic powder.
Mix together well to coat each chip fully.
To prevent the chips from sticking together, spread out the chips in the bowl and cover them with plastic wrap.
When they cool down, pop them into airtight containers and store them in the fridge overnight.
This allows time for the flavors to meld together and create a unique taste experience.
What Is The Origin Of Greek Fries?
Greek fries were originally created in the 1930s at a restaurant called “The Chez Fonfon” located on Washington Street in New Orleans, Louisiana.
According to legend, owner George Bessard was serving up his famous French fries when he realized that they needed some extra flavor.
He decided to fry them up with garlic powder, salt, pepper, and other seasonings.
Since this was an instant success, people started asking what else could be added.
It wasn’t long before Bessard began experimenting with different combinations of seasonings until he came up with the classic combination of garlic, onion, and olive oil which remains popular today.
While it can take anywhere from 2-4 hours to make homemade french fries, these greek fries are easy to prepare and ready within 20 minutes! You just need one pan and a few simple ingredients.
How Are Greek Fries Made?
When it comes to making Greek fries at home, the process is simple but requires some time and patience to get them just right.
The key to good homemade Greek fries is in using a potato that has been boiled until soft before being cut into strips.
To make Greek fries, first peel potatoes and wash thoroughly with cold water.
Place peeled potatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Then, bake at 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 Celsius) for 60 minutes.
After cooking, allow the potatoes to cool down completely before cutting them into thin slices.
You can use either an electric knife or mandolin slicer for this purpose.
Once the potatoes have cooled down enough, sprinkle salt over each slice and toss around well so that all sides are covered.
Now place the sliced potatoes back onto a baking sheet and let them sit for 10-15 minutes.
After this, flip the potatoes over again and repeat the same step once more.
Another important step when preparing homemade Greek fries is to keep the oven temperature as low as possible.
If the oven gets too hot while frying the potatoes, they will turn brown quickly instead of becoming golden brown.
To avoid this from happening, lower the heat setting slightly after every batch.
After letting the potatoes dry off, fry them in heated oil until golden brown – about 5-6 minutes per side.
Drain cooked fries on paper towels before placing them onto a serving plate.
Serve warm.
What Is The Nutritional Value Of Greek Fries?
Greek fries are rich in fiber, vitamin C, folate, iron, copper, manganese, magnesium, zinc, protein, selenium, and potassium.
The most important nutrients found in these chips include vitamin B6, vitamin K, calcium, and vitamin D.
All of this makes them an ideal addition to any meal, especially when it comes to boosting immune function.
Vitamin B6 supports nerve functioning, while also helping with blood sugar control.
Vitamin K helps maintain bone density and muscle mass, as well as helps promote heart health.
Calcium promotes proper digestion and regulates appetite, while also being involved in maintaining teeth and bones.
It also aids in regulating body temperature, which can help prevent hypothermia during cold weather conditions.
Calcium is also needed for many bodily functions such as breathing, heartbeat, and muscle contraction.
Folate works together with vitamins A, B6, C, and P to support normal cell growth and division.
Folic acid is necessary for DNA synthesis and methylation processes that regulate gene expression.
It also reduces homocysteine levels, which has been linked to increased risk of cardiovascular disease.
Iron keeps our bodies oxygenated and prevents hemoglobin from becoming deoxygenated.
Iron deficiency contributes to fatigue and poor concentration.
Copper is essential for energy production and metabolism, while also aiding in the formation of red blood cells.
Manganese assists in maintaining good mood, memory, and motor skills.
Magnesium is vital for energy production, including the ability to relax muscles after physical exertion.
Zinc is crucial for tissue repair and wound healing, and is often deficient in people who have chronic skin problems.
Selenium protects against oxidative damage and improves immunity.
Protein is required for building hormones, enzymes, antibodies, and other proteins.
Potassium maintains fluid balance and electrolyte concentrations within our bodies.
What Are The Health Benefits Of Greek Fries?
Greek fries are made from potatoes that have been cooked with olive oil, garlic, oregano, salt, pepper, and other spices.
These ingredients provide essential nutrients such as vitamin C, potassium, fiber, folate, protein, iron, calcium, magnesium, zinc, copper, manganese, phosphorus, niacin, riboflavin, thiamine, pantothenic acid, vitamin B6, selenium, biotin, and folic acid.
These vitamins help boost your overall health in many ways.
For example, they can reduce stress levels, improve blood circulation, increase energy levels, prevent heart disease, and even lower cholesterol levels.
Some people even use them as an alternative to medication when it comes to treating certain diseases.
In addition to these health benefits, these ingredients also create delicious food.
So if you want to enjoy some gourmet Greek fries without sacrificing the taste, try this recipe below.
- Vitamin A – helps maintain eye health and bone density
- Folate – promotes proper growth development during pregnancy and prevents birth defects
- Potassium & Magnesium – lowers risk of high blood pressure
- Calcium – reduces risk of osteoporosis
- Zinc – regulates immune system functions
- Copper – aids metabolism, improves skin tone, hair color, and nails
- Niacin (B3)
- Pantothenic Acid – aids digestion
- Riboflavin (B2)
- Thiamine (B1) – assists nervous system function
- Selenium – protects against cancer and cardiovascular disease
- Biotin – aids digestion and absorption of fats
- Folic Acid – promotes cell division and DNA synthesis
- Vitamin D – boosts immunity and supports bone health
What Are The Side Effects Of Greek Fries?
Greek fries have been around since the early 20th century when they were first created in Greece as an appetizer that was served with souvlaki (a type of meat cooked on skewers).
Today, these crispy golden brown fries are still enjoyed all over the world because they taste amazing!
These fries can be made from any vegetable that has a high starch content, but most often used ingredients include potatoes, sweet potato, rutabaga, carrots, red beetroot, turnip, parsnips, yams, and plantains.
The main benefit of eating greek fries is that it provides lots of nutrients while also being low in calories and fat.
The high fiber content will help keep your digestive system running smoothly, which means less bloating and indigestion after meals.
However, there are always certain side effects associated with food and each one should be taken into consideration before deciding whether or not to eat something.
If you see any signs of discomfort, stop right away so you don’t experience worse symptoms later on.
What Are Some Of The Best Greek Fries Recipes?
When it comes to choosing from among different types of food, I personally prefer cooking with potatoes because they can be used in so many ways.
The key to making great greek fries is using high-quality ingredients that will give them an excellent flavor while still being good for you.
Greek fries are one of my favorite potato options, especially when served alongside other dishes like salads and soups.
Here are some of the most popular greek fries recipes out on the internet.
- Best-Ever Roasted Potatoes Recipe
- Potato Fries With Lemon Basil Aioli Dip Recipe
- Spicy Peanut Lime Garlic Potato Chips Recipe
- Crispy Bacon Ranch Potato Wedges
- Easy Homemade French Fry Seasoning
- Honey Mustard Roasted Sweet Potatoes
- Sweet Potato Baked Fries
- Parmesan Crisped Cauliflower Fritters
Bacon Wrapped Potatoes
These bacon wrapped potatoes are a fun twist on traditional french fries.
It’s simple enough to make, but if you want to up the ante, try serving the crispy little bites as appetizers instead of regular french fries.
Ingredients needed:
- 1 lb small red potatoes
- ¼ cup olive oil
- ½ tsp salt
- ⅛ tsp black pepper
- 4 strips thick cut bacon (cut into 1″ pieces)
- Directions:
- Preheat oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Wash and dry potatoes thoroughly.
- Cut each potato lengthwise into 6 wedges.
- Add ¼ cup olive oil to a large bowl and mix well.
- Season potatoes with ½ teaspoon salt and ⅛ teaspoon pepper.
- Toss the seasoned potatoes until evenly coated.
- Spread the potatoes onto a baking sheet lined with foil, leaving space between each piece.
- Roast for 15 minutes.
- Remove pan from the oven and carefully arrange 4 strips of bacon over each potato wedge.
- Return to the oven and cook for another 10 minutes.
- Serve hot.
Salted Caramelized Onion Fries
This sweet and savory combination is surprisingly easy to make, which makes it ideal for kids.
Plus, this is a healthier alternative to french fries since onions don’t have any trans fats.
Ingredients needed:
- 8 medium sized red potatoes
- Salt
- Olive Oil
- Onion powder
- Pepper
- Carrots
- Garlic powder
- Cooking spray
- Directions:
- Start by washing and drying all vegetables thoroughly.
- Prepare a deep fryer or pot filled with about 2 inches of vegetable oil.
- In a shallow bowl, combine salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and pepper.
- Slice carrots thinly into long sticks.
- Dip carrot sticks first in flour mixture and then coat completely in oil.
- Place sticks into boiling oil and let cook for 3 – 5 minutes before turning.
- Once cooked, remove carrots from heat and drain on paper towels.
- Arrange fries and serve immediately.
Vegetable Fried Rice
One of my biggest complaints about eating fast food restaurants is how unhealthy their fried rice usually is.
However, this version is much healthier thanks to its use of tofu instead of meat.
Ingredients needed:
- 12 oz extra firm tofu (drained)
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 5 eggs
- 3 tablespoons sesame seeds
- 2 teaspoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon peanut butter
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger paste
- 1/4 teaspoon ground white pepper
- 1 tablespoon corn starch
- 2 teaspoons water
- Oil for frying
- Directions:
- Mix tofu and egg together until smooth and set aside.
- Heat wok or skillet with oil and stir fry broccoli for 3 minutes.
- Stir fry tofu and eggs together for another 2 minutes.
- Add remaining ingredients except liquid aminos and cornstarch.
- Stir fry until heated through and slightly thickened.
- Add liquid aminos and cornstarch and continue stirring until coating has become loose.
- Serve warm.
What Are Some Of The Worst Greek Fries Recipes?
Greek fries are one of those things that people either love or hate, but they don’t know why.
There are many different ways to make these crispy snacks, so it can be difficult to decide which ones will work well with your lifestyle and preferences.
So what makes Greek fries so popular? Well, they have an incredible texture because they get their crispiness from frying them in oil instead of baking them.
You won’t find any flour inside, nor any other ingredients that might detract from the taste or texture of the food.
But while this may sound great on paper, sometimes the results aren’t as good as expected.
That’s where we come in.
We want to help you figure out which of the most common greek fries recipes will suit your needs, whether you’re cooking for yourself or serving at a restaurant.
What Are Some Tips For Making Greek Fries?
Greek fries are typically made with potatoes, olive oil, salt, and herbs/spices.
You can also add onions to this classic french fry recipe if you want an oniony flavor in your fries.
The key to making these crispy potato wedges is to cook them until they become golden brown at the edges but not burnt on the inside.
When cooking these fries, it’s important that you keep an eye on them so as not to burn them.
The reason why we recommend using a nonstick pan instead of regular cast iron skillet is because the former will be easier to clean up after frying.
To ensure that your Greek fries don’t get soggy, try keeping them warm while waiting for them to finish frying.
If you do decide to put them into a serving bowl right away, give them a quick toss to prevent any sticking.
When you have finished frying all the potatoes, drain off excess grease from the bottom of the pan before pouring out onto paper towels.
Once the pan has cooled down enough, transfer the fried fries back into the same pan.
Add a little bit of fresh lemon juice and mix well.
Then season them with black pepper powder, paprika, parsley, oregano, red chili flakes, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper.
Lastly, sprinkle each batch with sea salt and serve immediately.
How Can I Make Greek Fries Healthier?
Greek fries are made from potatoes that have been cut into long sticks (or “cutlets”) and fried in oil until they get crisp on the outside while still soft inside.
While this may seem like it would be an unhealthy option, greek fries actually contain less fat and calories compared to other types of french fry recipes.
In fact, these fries provide only half as many calories per serving as regular french fries.
For example, if we compare two servings of French fries versus Greek fries, one with 12 grams of fat and another with 6 grams of fat, here’s how our caloric values break down:
- French fries – 567 calories/serving
- Greece fries – 333 calories/serving
So, what makes greek fries so special? It all comes down to their unique cooking method.
When frying them, instead of using just plain old oil, greek fries use olive oil which has high amounts of antioxidants.
These antioxidants help fight off free radicals in the body, which may lead to cancer development later in life.
So, when choosing your food options, try to choose those with higher antioxidant levels whenever possible.
Tips for making greek fries healthier
Although Greek fries tend to be lower in calories and fat, that doesn’t mean that you should go overboard and eat too many of them every day.
Instead, it’s best to stick to eating one small portion of greek fries per week.
But even though Greek fries aren’t extremely calorie-dense, it is important to limit yourself to consuming fewer than 20 percent of your total daily calories from saturated fats.
Equipment
- The Oven
Ingredients
- 6 medium Yukon gold potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon homemade Greek Seasoning
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ cup feta crumbles
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped curly parsley
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped red onion
- 4 lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Set the oven’s temperature to 425 degrees. To guarantee consistent cooking, arrange the oven racks evenly.
- Cut the potatoes into fries while you wait: Use a fry cutter or watch the video. Leave the skins on when washing the potatoes. Each potato should have its ends sliced off, then the base should have a portion of the side removed. Cut a 3/8-inch slice from the potato half, put it on its side, and then cut it into numerous long strips. Place the potato half cut side down. Once more, cut all the potatoes into fries. Although the parts may be unequal, try to keep the thickness consistent. The complete directions are in the video!
- Place the sliced fries in a medium dish and rinse under cold water for 10 minutes, or until the water is clear. After that, add cold water to the bowl and let stand for 10 minutes (while the oven preheats). The potatoes should then be drained and completely dried with a clean dish towel.
- Fries should be seasoned by placing them in a dry bowl and tossing with olive oil, Greek seasoning, and kosher salt. Using parchment paper, line two baking pans. On the paper, arrange the fries in straight lines, spacing them apart as much as you can.
- Fries should be baked for 20 minutes. After removing them from the oven, flip each fry individually. re-enter the oven (reversing the pans on top and bottom racks). Watch carefully as the baking time varies depending on the thickness of the fries and your oven. Bake an additional 8 to 10 minutes until they are crisp and golden brown. (If most of the fries appear to be soft, bake for a few more minutes.)
- Season: If necessary, taste and add a few more pinches of salt.
- To garnish, arrange the fries on a dish and sprinkle with the crumbled feta cheese, breaking up any bigger pieces with your fingers. Red onion and parsley, both cut finely, are added. Serve with tzatziki or lemon dill sauce, along with lemon wedges.
Video
Nutrition
My blog is all about creating delicious meals with ingredients that are easy to find in your local grocery store. I’m passionate about making yummy meals that I can share with my friends and family.