Ah, the butternut squash—a humble vegetable that doesn’t quite scream ‘snack time’ at first glance, but wait till you try these crispy baked fries! They’re like the cozy sweater of snacks, warm and comforting, with just the right amount of crunch. Imagine munching on these while binge-watching your favorite series on a rainy afternoon—pure bliss, right?
Steps
- Preheat your oven to 425°F and prepare two large baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper.
- Cut the butternut squash into thin, even sticks. Pat them dry using a paper towel to remove any excess moisture.
- Place the squash sticks in a large bowl, sprinkle with corn starch, and use your hands to coat them thoroughly. Transfer to a colander and shake to rid any excess corn starch.
- Return the coated squash sticks to the bowl and add olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, and thyme. Mix well to ensure even coating.
- Arrange the seasoned squash sticks in a single layer on the prepared baking sheets, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
- Bake the fries for 30-35 minutes, turning them halfway through, until they are tender and crispy. Let them cool for 5-10 minutes before serving with your preferred dipping sauce.
Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or canola/vegetable oil)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Nutritional Values
Calories: 204kcal | Carbohydrates: 28g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 11g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 9mg | Potassium: 669mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 20054IU | Vitamin C: 39mg | Calcium: 90mg | Iron: 2mg
FAQ
- Can these butternut squash fries be prepared in advance?
- It’s best to enjoy these fries right after baking to maintain their crispiness. However, you can prepare the butternut squash a few hours ahead of time. Store them in the fridge, covered, until you’re ready to bake.
- Are butternut squash fries a healthier option compared to sweet potato fries?
- Yes, butternut squash has fewer calories, carbohydrates, and sugar than sweet potatoes. Additionally, it’s a good source of calcium, magnesium, and vitamins E and B6, making it a nutritious alternative.
- What flavor profile does roasted butternut squash have?
- Roasted butternut squash has a sweet, slightly nutty taste similar to pumpkin and sweet potatoes, making it a delicious choice for fries.
- What are some good dipping sauces to serve with butternut squash fries?
- These fries pair well with various dips, such as mayo mixed with fresh herbs like thyme, ketchup, or ranch dressing. They can be served as an appetizer or a side dish alongside fish, chicken, or other meats.
- Can I use different seasonings for these fries?
- Absolutely! While the recipe suggests garlic powder, paprika, and thyme, you can experiment with your favorite spices. Adding red chili flakes can give the fries a spicy kick.
Tips
- Ensure the butternut squash sticks are thoroughly dried before coating them with cornstarch. Removing excess moisture helps achieve a crispier texture in the oven.
- Avoid overcrowding the baking sheets; spreading the fries in a single layer prevents them from steaming and becoming soggy, allowing them to roast and crisp up properly.
- For even cooking and optimal crispiness, cut the fries as uniformly and thinly as possible. This ensures they cook through evenly and develop a nice texture.
- Feel free to experiment with different seasonings to suit your taste. While the recipe suggests garlic powder, paprika, and thyme, adding red chili flakes can give your fries a spicy twist.
Equipment
- Colander – Useful for dusting off excess cornstarch.
- Parchment Paper – For lining the baking sheets to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Large Baking Sheets – Necessary for spreading out the fries in a single layer to achieve crispiness.
