Inspired by: @suzburton
Craving that irresistible kick of spicy, creamy, and crispy fries? Look no further! This recipe brings the dynamite flavor of restaurant-style loaded fries right into your kitchen. Perfect for a fun appetizer, a game-day snack, or a satisfying side dish, these vegan dynamite fries are incredibly delicious and surprisingly simple to make.
Forget complicated take-out; now you can easily recreate this fan-favorite, inspired by the incredible "dynamite fries" from Hartbreakers in Bushwick, Brooklyn. Hartbreakers is renowned for its vibrant decor and mouth-watering plant-based options, and their dynamite fries are truly "so freakin good!" This homemade version is completely plant-based, dairy-free, and can easily be made gluten-free, offering a delectable indulgence without compromise.
Whether you're hosting friends, looking for a quick weeknight treat, or simply want to elevate your fry game, this recipe solves the problem of bland snacks by delivering an explosion of flavor and texture. Get ready to impress your taste buds!
What are Dynamite Fries?
Dynamite fries are typically a popular appetizer featuring crispy French fries generously coated in a creamy, spicy sauce, often topped with fresh herbs or other savory garnishes. The "dynamite" name refers to the explosive flavor provided by the sauce, which usually combines a base like mayonnaise with a fiery element such as sriracha or chili oil, along with other seasonings. This recipe focuses on creating a delicious vegan version that captures all the crave-worthy elements of this beloved dish.
Ingredients
For the Crispy Fries:
- 2 large baking potatoes (e.g., Russet or Maris Piper)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (smoked paprika for extra depth)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Vegan Spicy Dynamite Aioli:
- 1/2 cup vegan mayonnaise
- 2-3 tablespoons sriracha (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (or lime juice)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
For Garnish:
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional)
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Whisk
- Small bowl for sauce
Instructions
- Prepare the Potatoes: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Wash and scrub the potatoes. Cut them into even-sized fries (about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick). For extra crispiness, you can soak the cut fries in cold water for 30 minutes, then drain and pat them completely dry with a clean towel.
- Season the Fries: In a large mixing bowl, toss the dried potato fries with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
- Bake the Fries: Spread the seasoned fries in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Ensure they are not overcrowded, as this helps them crisp up. Bake for 25-35 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
- Make the Dynamite Aioli: While the fries are baking, whisk together the vegan mayonnaise, sriracha, maple syrup, lemon juice, and garlic powder in a small bowl until smooth and well combined. Taste and adjust spice or sweetness as desired.
- Serve: Once the fries are ready, remove them from the oven. You can either drizzle the dynamite aioli directly over the hot fries on the baking sheet or transfer the fries to a serving platter and then generously top with the sauce. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds, if using.
- Enjoy Immediately: Serve your easy homemade crispy vegan dynamite fries hot and fresh for the best experience!
Tips for Perfect Crispy Fries & Dynamite Flavor
- Achieve Maximum Crispiness: Soaking potatoes in cold water beforehand removes excess starch, leading to crispier fries. Patting them completely dry is crucial. Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet; use two if necessary.
- Customize Your Heat: Adjust the amount of sriracha in the aioli to match your preferred spice level. For even more heat, add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
- Air Fryer Method: For a quicker, oil-free option, prepare and season fries as instructed, then air fry at 380°F (195°C) for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket frequently, until golden and crispy.
Variations and Adaptations
- Sweet Potato Dynamite Fries: Swap out regular potatoes for sweet potatoes for a slightly sweeter, nutrient-rich twist. Adjust baking time as needed.
- Loaded Dynamite Fries: Take it to the next level by adding extra toppings like melted vegan cheese shreds, black beans, corn, or a dollop of guacamole for a truly epic platter.
- Dynamite Protein Bowl: Turn this into a meal by serving the fries and sauce over a base of cooked quinoa or brown rice, topped with some crispy baked tofu or chickpeas for added protein.
- Different Dips: While the dynamite aioli is a star, feel free to experiment with other vegan dips like a creamy french onion dip or a tangy salsa.
Ready to get cooking? Whip up a batch of these easy homemade crispy vegan dynamite fries tonight and bring the restaurant experience home! We'd love to see your creations. Share your photos and reviews on abillion and tell us what you think!
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