Zucchini Fries
Posted by Mike Miryala on
In the mood for something a little spicy? Try this spicy seasoned zucchini fries recipe. The little kick you get from the chili powder livens up the mild zucchini.
Variations of Chili Powder
Did you know all chili powder is not created equal? As it turns out, it can vary a lot.
Sometimes your chili powder is actually a chili powder blend. Blends might contain onion, garlic powder, cumin, or salt in addition to chili.
The “heat” of a blend will vary, as the other seasonings cut the spiciness of the chili. Typically, the chilis used in blends are either red chili peppers or cayenne peppers.
Sometimes chili powder is referred to according to the pepper used. Common varieties include chipotle, jalapeño, cayenne, chile de árbol, New Mexico, Cheongyang, pasilla, Aleppo, ancho, and piri piri chili peppers.
Chili Powder vs. Paprika
This recipe happens to call for both chili powder and paprika. The two spices are similar, but have distinctions.
As mentioned earlier, chili powder tends to be a blend of chilis mixed with other spices. Paprika is a mix as well, but it’s limited to peppers.
The peppers used for paprika are generally sweet and mild. At least in the U.S., paprika is not going to have much, if any, heat, but it can range internationally.
To confuse matters even more, chili powder blends can sometimes contain paprika!
As a general guideline, if you are looking for heat, chili powder will help you. If you’re looking for sweet and smoky, paprika is your friend. Often they work well together, as they do in this spicy seasoned zucchini fries recipe.
Benefits Beyond the Crispiness:
- Low in Carbs, High in Nutrients: "Zucchini Fries" celebrate the beauty of low-carb eating while delivering essential nutrients. Zucchinis are naturally low in carbohydrates and calories, making them an excellent choice for those seeking to manage their carb intake. They're also a source of vitamins A and C, potassium, and antioxidants that promote optimal health.
- Fiber-Rich Satisfaction: Zucchinis provide dietary fiber, which supports digestive health and helps keep you feeling full and satisfied. Fiber contributes to stable blood sugar levels and aids in weight management.
- Plant-Powered Goodness: This dish exemplifies the versatility and deliciousness of plant-based ingredients. By opting for zucchinis and coconut flour, you're embracing a plant-based approach that aligns with ethical, environmental, and health considerations.
- Flavorful Spice Blend: The blend of spices not only infuses the zucchini fries with irresistible flavor but also brings potential health benefits. Garlic and onion powder are known for their immune-boosting properties, while paprika and chili powder contribute antioxidants and may support metabolism.
- Customizable and Creative: The spice blend is just the beginning – you can tailor the flavors to your preferences by adjusting the seasonings or even incorporating your favorite herbs and spices.
Zucchini Fries
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Category: Snack
Cuisine: American
Ingredients:
- 5 zucchinis (600 g)
- 1 cup (112 g) of coconut flour
- 2 Tablespoons (14 g) of onion powder
- 2 Tablespoons (20 g) of garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons (4 g) of paprika
- 2 teaspoons (4 g) of chili powder
- 1 teaspoon (5 g) of salt
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Cut the zucchini ensuring the inner fleshy parts are mostly removed and discarded. Then slice the zucchini into 1/4-inch sticks.
- Combine the coconut flour, onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, chili powder, salt, and freshly ground black pepper in a large bowl. Add the zucchini sticks to the bowl and toss to coat evenly.
- Spread the sticks evenly on a greased baking tray and cook in the oven for 20 minutes.
- Shake the tray and cook for an additional 5-10 minutes until golden.
Nutrition: (Estimated and based on per-serving amounts.)
- Calories: 101
- Fat: 2 g
- Total Carbs: 15 g
- Fiber: 8 g
- Sugar: 5 g
- Net Carbs: 7 g
- Protein: 4 g
