Loaded Masala Cheese Fries

“In any given moment we have two options: to step forward into growth or to step back into safety.” – Abraham Maslow

I am all for quick and easy meals. Why recreate the wheel when you do not have to? Especially when you are hangry and want a quick meal with minimal set up and prep time. Which is why I used Trader Joe’s frozen fries, my go wise air fryer and then popped the fries in the oven allowing the cheese to melt. Note you can pop in an oven safe dish into the air fryer as well, depending on the size of your machine.

Please note: you do not need to use an air fryer for this recipe, simply cook the fries according to package instructions in the oven. Then take out, top with toppings and pop back into the oven for 5-7 minutes or until cheese melts. Microwave also works well! There is something about the combination of the seasonings that is simply addicting! Feels like a street food you would find in Bombay.

Try these fries as a game day appetizer, a weeknight treat or simply whenever a craving strikes for some cheesy spiced potatoes!

My choice of dipping sauce: a combination of equal parts: Sir kennsinton’s siracha mayo, tartar sauce, ketchup and regular mayonnaise.

Masala Loaded Cheese Fries

bold flavors that are reminiscent of street food in India

Course Appetizer

Prep Time 5 minutes

Cook Time 25 minutes

Total Time 30 minutes

Servings 2 people

Ingredients

• 1/3 bag of 8oz frozen French fries roughly 3 oz
• 1/2 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 tsp chaat masala
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1/4 tsp red chili powder
• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• Salt & pepper according to preference
• 1/2 cup reduced fat cheddar cheese separated into 1/4 cups
• 1 tsp tsp minced garlic
• 1 tsp lemon juice from concentrate
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro for garnish
• 1/4 cup diced white onions for garnish
• 1/2 Jalapeno diced for garnis

Instructions

1. Cook French fries in air fryer basket at 400F for 12-15 mins. Make sure to lightly spray the basket/grease. If you do not have an air fryer cook according to package directions.
2. Once fries are cooked, empty fries into a mixing bowl. Toss in olive oil and mix fries. Add all spices and mix well. Add in 1/4 cup of the cheese.

3. Empty seasoned fries into a 6 in cast iron (or oven safe dish). Toss minced garlic and lemon juice on top of the fries. Lastly, sprinkle remaining 1/4 cup of the cheese on top of the fries. Broil in conventional oven at 350F for 7-10 minutes or until golden brown. You can also place an oven safe dish in the air fryer! It is a matter of preference for this part.

4. Top fries with cilantro, onions and jalapeños before serving! Enjoy.