SPICY AND AROMATIC OVEN-BAKED POTATO WEDGES
Crispy on the outside, tender inside, these oven-baked potato wedges are infused with a warm, complex blend of spices including freshly toasted coriander and peppercorns. Perfect as a flavorful side dish or snack, they’re easy to prepare and bring exciting aromas to your table.
🕒 Prep Time: 20 min
🍳 Cook Time: 30 min
🍽️ Yields: 4-5 servings
Ingredients
Potatoes & Oil:
- 1.5 kg potatoes (preferably floury or medium floury type)
- 4-5 tbsp oil
- Salt, to taste
Spice Blend:
- 1 tbsp coriander seeds
- 1 tbsp black peppercorns
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme, crushed
- 1 tsp sweet paprika
- 1/4 tsp chili powder
- 1/4 tsp ground cumin
Instructions
1. Prepare the Spice Blend
- Heat a dry skillet over medium heat. Add coriander seeds and black peppercorns and toast them until the coriander seeds start to pop, about 2-3 minutes.
- Transfer to a mortar and pestle, add crushed dried thyme, and grind as finely as possible.
- Stir in sweet paprika, ground cumin, and chili powder until well combined. Reserve 1/2 tsp of this blend for serving.
2. Prepare the Potatoes
- Wash potatoes thoroughly (no need to peel if the skin is thin). Cut each into 4 to 6 wedges lengthwise.
- Boil potatoes in salted water for 8-10 minutes until a fork pierces easily but potatoes are still firm. Drain well.
- Shake drained potatoes in a colander to evaporate excess water.
3. Season and Bake
- Toss the warm potatoes with the prepared spice blend and salt, ensuring an even coating.
- Drizzle oil over the potatoes and mix well again.
- Spread potatoes evenly across two baking trays to avoid overcrowding (this ensures crispness).
- Bake in a preheated oven at 220°C (430°F) for 25-30 minutes, using a convection or “extra browning” setting if available, until golden and crispy on top.
- Turn and stir potatoes twice during baking for even cooking and browning.
4. Serve
- Serve hot, optionally with a cooling yogurt dip mixed with the reserved 1/2 tsp spice blend for a delicious contrast.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Pair these spicy wedges with grilled meats, roasted chicken, or enjoy them as a standalone snack with a tangy yogurt dip or ketchup.
📝 Final Thoughts
This recipe balances crispness, spice, and aromatic depth, bringing an exciting twist to classic potato wedges. The toasty notes from freshly ground coriander and pepper add a unique flavor profile, making these wedges a standout side for any meal or a perfect snack for entertaining.