CRISPY KOHLRABI FRIES OBSESSION

I vividly remember the first time I saw kohlrabi at the farmers market. It looked like a strange, otherworldly vegetable, and I honestly didn’t know what to do with it! After some experimenting, I stumbled upon the most amazing way to enjoy this underrated veggie: Crave-Worthy Crispy Kohlrabi Fries. Today, I’m sharing my foolproof method to create fries so delicious, you’ll forget all about potatoes!

Let’s Make the Best Kohlrabi Fries Ever!

Okay, friend, get ready to transform a humble kohlrabi into a truly addictive snack! These aren’t just any fries; they’re crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with flavor. We’re talking serious fry perfection here. I’m going to walk you through every step, ensuring your success. Don’t be intimidated; it’s easier than you think!

What is Kohlrabi Anyway?

Before we dive in, let’s quickly talk about kohlrabi. It’s a member of the cabbage family, often described as having a mild, slightly sweet, and slightly peppery flavor. The texture is similar to a turnip or radish, but it’s less pungent. You can eat both the bulb and the leaves, but for this recipe, we’ll focus on the bulb. Look for firm, heavy kohlrabi bulbs at your local farmers market or grocery store. Smaller bulbs tend to be sweeter and more tender.

The Crave-Worthy Crispy Kohlrabi Fries Recipe

Here’s what you’ll need to make these amazing fries. Don’t worry; the ingredient list is short and sweet!

Ingredients:

• 2 medium kohlrabi bulbs (about 1 pound total), peeled
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (or avocado oil)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little kick!)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Optional dipping sauce: Ketchup, aioli, sriracha mayo, etc.

Equipment:

• Large bowl
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper (recommended)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Get that oven nice and hot; this is crucial for achieving maximum crispiness!
2. Prepare the kohlrabi. Peel the kohlrabi bulbs using a vegetable peeler. Then, cut them into fry shapes, about ½ inch thick. Aim for uniform sizes so they cook evenly.
3. Toss with oil and spices. Place the kohlrabi fries in the large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper.
4. Mix well. Toss everything together until the kohlrabi fries are evenly coated with the oil and spices. Make sure every fry gets a good coating for maximum flavor! You want them to look vibrantly seasoned.
5. Arrange on the baking sheet. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper (this makes cleanup a breeze!). Spread the kohlrabi fries in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding the pan; this will prevent them from getting crispy. If necessary, use two baking sheets.
6. Bake! Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the fries are tender and golden brown. Keep an eye on them, as oven temperatures can vary. You want them to be nicely browned and slightly crispy around the edges.
7. Serve immediately. Remove from the oven and serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce. These are best enjoyed hot and fresh!

Success Tips for Perfect Kohlrabi Fries

Here are a few golden rules to guarantee fry success. Follow these, and you’ll be enjoying crispy, delicious kohlrabi fries in no time!

• Don’t overcrowd the pan! This is probably the most important tip. Overcrowding will steam the fries instead of baking them, resulting in soggy fries. If you need to, use two baking sheets or bake in batches.
• Use parchment paper. Parchment paper not only prevents sticking but also helps the fries crisp up nicely. It also makes cleanup super easy!
• Adjust the baking time. Oven temperatures can vary, so keep an eye on the fries. They’re done when they’re tender and golden brown, with slightly crispy edges.
• Spice it up! Feel free to experiment with different spices. Chili powder, cumin, or even a little bit of parmesan cheese would be delicious additions. Get creative and find your favorite flavor combination!
• Serve immediately! Like most fries, these are best enjoyed hot and fresh. They tend to lose their crispness as they cool.

Variations and Add-ins

Want to take your kohlrabi fries to the next level? Here are a few fun variations and add-ins to try:

Spicy Kohlrabi Fries:

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the spice mixture for a fiery kick. You can also use chili powder or smoked chipotle powder.

Garlic Parmesan Kohlrabi Fries:

After baking, toss the fries with grated Parmesan cheese and minced garlic. Return them to the oven for a minute or two to melt the cheese.

Herb-Infused Kohlrabi Fries:

Add fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano to the spice mixture for a fragrant and flavorful twist.

Everything Bagel Kohlrabi Fries:

Before baking, sprinkle the fries with everything bagel seasoning for a savory and satisfying snack.

Air Fryer Kohlrabi Fries:

Want an even quicker and crispier option? These kohlrabi fries work wonderfully in the air fryer! Simply follow the recipe as written, but instead of baking, air fry them at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy. Make sure to arrange them in a single layer in the air fryer basket.

Dipping Sauce Ideas

No fry is complete without a delicious dipping sauce! Here are a few of my favorite options:

• Classic Ketchup: A timeless favorite that never disappoints.
• Aioli: Creamy, garlicky aioli is a perfect complement to the slightly sweet kohlrabi.
• Sriracha Mayo: For a spicy kick, mix sriracha sauce with mayonnaise.
• Ranch Dressing: A classic choice that’s always a crowd-pleaser.
• Honey Mustard: Sweet and tangy, honey mustard is a great option for those who like a little sweetness with their fries.
• Spicy Peanut Sauce: For a unique and flavorful twist, try serving these fries with a homemade or store-bought spicy peanut sauce.

Health Benefits of Kohlrabi

Besides being incredibly delicious, kohlrabi is also packed with nutrients! It’s a good source of vitamin C, fiber, and potassium. Fiber helps keep you feeling full and satisfied, while vitamin C boosts your immune system. Potassium is important for maintaining healthy blood pressure.

So, you can enjoy these Crave-Worthy Crispy Kohlrabi Fries guilt-free! They’re a healthy and delicious alternative to traditional potato fries.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use frozen kohlrabi for this recipe?

I don’t recommend using frozen kohlrabi, as it tends to be waterlogged and won’t crisp up as well. Fresh kohlrabi is always the best option for this recipe.

How do I store leftover kohlrabi fries?

Leftover kohlrabi fries can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, they will lose their crispness over time. To reheat, you can bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes or air fry them until heated through.

Can I make these fries ahead of time?

I don’t recommend making the fries completely ahead of time, as they are best enjoyed fresh. However, you can prepare the kohlrabi by peeling and cutting it into fries ahead of time. Store the cut fries in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to use.

What if I can’t find kohlrabi?

If you can’t find kohlrabi, you can try using turnips or rutabagas as a substitute. Keep in mind that the flavor and texture will be slightly different, but they can still be delicious when prepared as fries.

Can I add other vegetables to these fries?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, or sweet potatoes to the mix. Just make sure to cut them into similar sizes so they cook evenly.

Why You’ll Love These Kohlrabi Fries

Seriously, these aren’t just “okay” fries; they’re crave-worthy! Here’s why I think you’ll absolutely adore them:

• They’re a healthy alternative to potato fries. You get all the satisfaction of fries without the extra carbs and calories.
• They’re easy to make. The recipe is simple and straightforward, even for beginner cooks.
• They’re incredibly flavorful. The combination of spices and the slightly sweet kohlrabi creates a truly addictive flavor.
• They’re versatile. You can customize the spices and dipping sauces to your liking.
• They’re a great way to use kohlrabi! If you’re looking for a new and exciting way to enjoy this underrated vegetable, this is it!

Final Thoughts

So, there you have it – my secret to making the most Crave-Worthy Crispy Kohlrabi Fries! I truly hope you give this recipe a try. I promise you won’t be disappointed. Get creative with your spices and dipping sauces, and have fun experimenting. And most importantly, enjoy every delicious bite!

Happy frying, my friend!