Spicy Potato Wedges Recipe

This spicy potato wedge recipe is a delightful twist on a classic side dish. Perfectly seasoned and baked until crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these wedges offer a fiery flavor that complements various main courses. The dish brings together the robust taste of garlic, the warmth of paprika, and the heat of cayenne pepper to create a tantalizing experience for your taste buds. Simple to prepare, this recipe is ideal for casual gatherings or family dinners. The addition of cheese is optional, adding a creamy contrast to the spicy seasoning. Baking these wedges allows the flavors to meld beautifully while ensuring a healthier alternative to frying. Serve them as a side dish, snack, or even a standalone dish with dips. Whether you're hosting a barbecue or a cozy indoor meal, these spicy potato wedges are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy experimenting with spice levels to suit your preference!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 1.5 kg potatoes
• 1 clove of garlic
• 2 tablespoons chili sauce
• Cheese, if desired

Spices

• 1 teaspoon sweet paprika powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons black or colorful peppercorns

Preparation Time

Total Time: 65 minutes (including prep and cook time)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (356°F).
2. Prepare the garlic: Peel the garlic clove and press it using a garlic press.
3. Mix the spices: In a bowl, combine the pressed garlic with chili sauce, sweet paprika powder, cayenne pepper, and salt. Mix thoroughly to create a smooth paste.
4. Grease the baking tray: Lightly coat a baking tray with your preferred cooking oil or fat to prevent sticking.
5. Slice the potatoes: Cut the potatoes lengthwise into eighths to form wedges of even size.
6. Season the wedges: Place the potato wedges on the greased tray and apply the prepared spice mixture evenly on each wedge.
7. Crush the peppercorns: Coarsely grind the black or colorful peppercorns to release their full flavors.
8. Sprinkle the pepper: Generously sprinkle the crushed pepper over the seasoned wedges for added zing.
9. Bake the potatoes: Insert the tray into the heated oven and bake the wedges at 160°C (320°F) for approximately 50 minutes. The potatoes should be tender inside and crispy outside.
10. Baste during baking: Occasionally, brush the wedges with the spice mixture from the tray to enhance the flavor as they bake.
11. Optional cheese addition: For a cheesy touch, sprinkle grated cheese over the wedges towards the end of cooking, returning them to the oven briefly to allow the cheese to melt.
12. Serve hot: Once baked to perfection, remove the wedges from the oven and serve immediately for the best taste.
13. Enjoy the flavor: Delight in the spicy aroma and crispy texture. Pair them with your favorite dips or enjoy them on their own.
14. Store leftovers: If any wedges remain, store them in an airtight container and refrigerate. Reheat in the oven to restore crispness.
15. Spice level adjustments: Customize the spice levels to your liking by adjusting the amount of cayenne and chili sauce.
16. Pair with meats: These wedges pair excellently with grilled chicken, steak, or burgers.
17. Additions and Substitutions: Experiment with other spices like cumin or smoked paprika for a different flavor profile.
18. Garnish options: Garnish with freshly chopped herbs like parsley or cilantro for a fresh finish.
19. Serving as appetizers: Serve with a side of sour cream or yogurt dip when offering as an appetizer.
20. Indulge and Repeat: Enjoy your creation and feel free to make these spicy wedges a staple in your recipe collection!

Tips

• Cheesy Twist: Add cheese in the last 5 minutes of baking for a delicious melted topping.
• Uniform Size: Ensure potato wedges are uniformly sized for even cooking.
• Oil Choice: Use high-smoke point oils like avocado or sunflower oil for greasing.
• Spice Balance: Adjust spices based on your heat preference; start with less and add more if needed.

Nutritions

• Calories: Approximately 260 cal per serving
• Protein: 4g
• Fats: 6g
• Carbohydrates: 50g

Variations

• Herb Infusion: Add rosemary or thyme for an herbaceous twist.
• Vegan Version: Omit cheese or use plant-based cheese alternatives.
• Sweet Potatoes: Substitute with sweet potatoes for a sweeter flavor.
• Low-Salt Option: Reduce or replace salt with a dash of lemon juice for a tangy taste.

Serving Suggestions

• Dip Options: Serve with ketchup, ranch, or aioli for dipping.
• Main Course Pairing: Perfect alongside grilled meats or a fresh salad.
• Drink Pairing: Pair with a crisp white wine or a cold beer for a refreshing combination.

Best Places

• Potato City Grill - Known for its variety of potato dishes. Location: 123 Potato Lane, London, UK.
• Spice & Rack - Offers a variety of spicy snacks and sides. Location: 45 Heat Street, New York City, USA.
• The Crispy Corner - Famous for its crispy wedges and unique dips. Location: 89 Crunch Avenue, Sydney, Australia.
• Chili Haven Bistro - Popular for its spicy-themed menu. Location: 102 Spice Road, Cape Town, South Africa.
• Garlic & Paprika Café - Specializes in garlic-flavored dishes. Location: 77 Aroma Blvd, Paris, France.
• Pepper Palate - A favorite spot for spice lovers. Location: 34 Pepper Drive, Tokyo, Japan.
• Wedge 'n' Serve - Known for creative potato recipes. Location: 56 Wedge Road, Toronto, Canada.
• Herbal Delight - Combines herbs and spices creatively. Location: 11 Green way, Dublin, Ireland.
• Savory Bites - Offers a range of savory sides. Location: 5 Delicious St, Rome, Italy.
• Flavor Burst Café - A hub for flavor-packed dishes. Location: 9 Zest Avenue, Mumbai, India.