Description
Baked Avocado Fries
Crispy Baked Avocado Fries are the perfect blend of creamy and crunchy, offering a unique twist on the classic fry. This healthy alternative to traditional French fries is ideal as a side or a snack, boasting the goodness of ripe avocados with a delicious panko breadcrumb coating. Serve them up at gatherings or as an appetizer for a healthy yet satisfying treat!
2 large avocados, sliced ½” thick
1 lime
2 large eggs
¼ tsp kosher salt
⅛ tsp coarse ground black pepper
½ cup panko bread crumbs
½ cup flour
Vegetable oil spray
Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F.
2. Squeeze lime over avocado slices.
3. Whisk together eggs, salt, and pepper.
4. Dredge avocado slices in flour, then egg, then panko.
5. Place on baking sheet, spray with oil, bake 10 minutes.
6. Flip fries, spray again, bake 5 more minutes.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Kcal: 192
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect Baked Avocado Fries every time. First, preheat your oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Slice two large, firm-ripe avocados in half, remove the pit, and peel them. Cut each half into ½-inch thick wedges. Immediately squeeze the juice of one lime over all the slices to prevent browning and add flavor.
Set up your breading station with three shallow dishes. In the first, place ½ cup of all-purpose flour. In the second, whisk two large eggs with ¼ teaspoon kosher salt and ⅛ teaspoon black pepper. In the third, place ½ cup of panko breadcrumbs. Working one at a time, dredge an avocado slice in flour, shaking off the excess. Next, dip it fully into the egg wash, letting any excess drip off. Finally, press it firmly into the panko crumbs, ensuring all sides are evenly coated. Place the coated slice on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat with all slices, arranging them in a single layer without touching.
Lightly but thoroughly spray all the fries with vegetable oil spray. This is crucial for achieving a golden, crispy texture. Bake for 10 minutes, then carefully flip each fry. Spray the second side with oil and return to the oven for another 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
Serving Suggestions
These fries are incredibly versatile. Serve them immediately as a hot appetizer with dipping sauces like chipotle aioli, creamy cilantro-lime ranch, or a simple spicy ketchup. They also make a fantastic side dish for burgers, grilled chicken, or fish tacos. For a complete snack, pair them with a fresh, tangy coleslaw or a light garden salad.
How-to Summary
Slice and lime avocados. Set up a three-stage breading station: flour, seasoned egg wash, and panko. Dredge each slice thoroughly. Place on a baking sheet, spray with oil, and bake at 425°F for 10 minutes. Flip, spray again, and bake for 5-7 more minutes until golden and crisp.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these fries ahead of time? They are best served fresh from the oven. You can prepare the breaded slices and refrigerate them on the baking sheet for up to an hour before baking.
Can I use an air fryer? Yes! Cook at 400°F for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy. You may need to work in batches.
My coating isn’t sticking. What went wrong? Ensure you shake off excess flour after the first dredge, and press the avocado firmly into the panko. Using very ripe, soft avocados can also cause the coating to slide off.
What’s a good gluten-free alternative to panko? Use gluten-free panko-style breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers or cornflakes for a similar crunch.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? While best fresh, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 1-2 days. Reheat in a toaster oven or air fryer to restore crispiness; a microwave will make them soggy.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid using over-ripe, mushy avocados, as they will fall apart during breading and baking. Do not skip the lime juice, as it prevents browning and adds flavor. Ensure you spray the fries generously with oil; this is what helps the panko brown and crisp in the oven. Finally, do not overcrowd the baking sheet, as this will steam the fries instead of baking them crispy.
Conclusion
Baked Avocado Fries are a creative, healthier take on a classic snack that delivers a wonderful contrast of creamy interiors and crispy, golden exteriors. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, they are an impressive dish perfect for any occasion. By following this guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can master this delicious recipe and enjoy a truly satisfying treat.