These Easy Masala Chips are the perfect snack for spice lovers! Crispy fries sprinkled with zesty spices make for a mouth-watering treat. They’re super fun to make and enjoy!
Honestly, I can’t resist munching on these while watching my favorite shows! They’re not just fries; they’re a flavor party in every bite. Yum!
I love serving these with a cool dip, which really balances the heat. Plus, they’re quick to whip up, making it easy to satisfy those snack cravings anytime!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: Russet potatoes are great for fries because they’re starchy and get super crispy. Yukon Golds are also a good choice for a creamier texture. If you want to avoid nightshades, try sweet potatoes instead!
Chaat Masala: This is a unique spice mix that brings an Indian twist. If you can’t find it, a mix of cumin, coriander, and a pinch of salt will work in a pinch. You could also try taco seasoning for a different flavor.
Red Chili Powder: Adjust this to your spice level. If it’s too spicy, you can substitute with paprika for color and a milder flavor or use cayenne for extra heat if you love spice!
Amchur Powder: This adds tanginess. If you don’t have it, lemon juice will do the trick! It gives that zesty flavor to balance the spices perfectly.
How Do I Get My Fries Extra Crispy?
Soaking the potato strips is key to getting that perfect crunch. It removes excess starch, which helps them crisp up better when frying. Here’s how to do it right:
- Soak the cut potatoes in cold water for at least 30 minutes. The longer, the better!
- After soaking, drain and thoroughly dry the fries. Moisture prevents crispiness.
- Fry in batches instead of overcrowding the oil. This keeps the temperature steady and helps them cook evenly.
Remember, golden brown is your friend! Keep an eye on them and remove when just right for that delicious crunch.
How to Make Easy Masala Chips (Indian Spiced Fries)
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chips:
- 4 large potatoes (Russet or Yukon Gold)
- 2 tablespoons oil (vegetable or sunflower)
For the Spice Mix:
- 1 teaspoon chaat masala
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
- 1/2 teaspoon amchur (dry mango powder) or lemon juice (optional, for tanginess)
- Salt to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh coriander leaves, finely chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for preparation and approximately 15-20 minutes to cook, depending on your cooking method. Including soaking time for the potatoes, plan for about 40-50 minutes total. It’s a quick and tasty way to enjoy a snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Potatoes:
Start by washing and peeling the potatoes. Cut them into thin strips resembling classic fries. Ensure the fries are evenly sized for uniform cooking.
2. Soak the Fries:
Place the potato strips in a bowl of cold water for at least 30 minutes. This helps remove excess starch, making your fries crispier. Once soaked, drain the water and pat the fries dry with a kitchen towel to remove moisture.
3. Heat the Oil:
In a deep frying pan, heat the oil over medium-high heat. If you prefer using an air fryer, preheat it to 180°C (350°F).
4. Fry or Air Fry the Chips:
If you’re frying, carefully add the potato strips in batches to the hot oil. Fry until they turn golden brown and crispy, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes. If air frying, lightly spray the fries with oil and cook for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
5. Drain the Oil:
Once cooked, transfer the fries to a large bowl lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil. This step is key to keeping them crisp!
6. Spice It Up:
While the fries are still hot, sprinkle them with chaat masala, red chili powder, ground cumin, garam masala, amchur powder, and salt. Toss the fries gently to ensure even coating of spices.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Top your spicy masala chips with freshly chopped coriander leaves for an extra burst of flavor. Serve immediately with dips like ketchup or raita for that extra zing!
Enjoy your flavorful, crispy Indian spiced masala chips!
FAQ for Easy Masala Chips Recipe
Can I Use Frozen Potatoes for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen French fries instead of fresh potatoes! Just skip the soaking step and follow the cooking instructions on the package. You might want to sprinkle the spices on right after cooking while they’re still hot for the best flavor.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
To make the chips milder, reduce the amount of red chili powder or omit it entirely. For added spice, consider using a spicier chili powder or adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the spice mix. Always adjust according to your taste preferences!
What is the Best Way to Store Leftover Masala Chips?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To re-crisp the fries, place them in the air fryer or bake them in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10 minutes. Microwaving may make them soggy, so it’s best to avoid that method for reheating.
Can I Make These Chips in the Oven?
Absolutely! Preheat your oven to 220°C (425°F). Toss the dried potato strips with oil and spices on a baking sheet and spread them out in a single layer. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and golden.
