Looking for a creative way to enjoy vegetables? These crispy squash fries are the perfect savory snack golden, crunchy, and lightly sweet. Made from kalabasa (Filipino pumpkin), this recipe transforms squash into a snack that rivals fast food fries. No fancy ingredients needed just squash, a bit of coating, and a quick fry. Let’s fry it up!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Uses simple ingredients from your pantry
- Turns squash into a crispy, craveable snack
- Fun to serve with dips or sprinkle with cheese
- Great for picky eaters and school lunches
Why Kids Love These Fries
- Fun shape and finger friendly
- Sweet flavor with a crispy bite
- Pairs with ketchup, cheese dip, or yogurt based dips
- They’re secretly packed with veggie goodness
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 medium squash (kalabasa), peeled and sliced into fry sized sticks
- 2 tbsp cornstarch (for crispiness)
- 3 tbsp crispy fry mix or any seasoned breading
- Oil for deep frying
Step by Step to Make Kalabasa Fries
1: Prepare the Squash
- Peel the squash and remove seeds if needed.
- Slice into thin strips resembling classic French fries. Keep them uniform for even cooking.
2: Coat the Fries
- In a large bowl, combine the cornstarch and crispy fry mix.
- Toss the squash strips until evenly coated. Shake off any excess powder.
3: Heat the Oil
- Pour oil into a deep pan enough to submerge the fries.
- Heat over medium until hot (around 350°F or 175°C). Test with a crumb it should sizzle immediately.
4: Fry Until Golden
- Fry the coated squash in small batches, 3-5 minutes or until golden brown.
- Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on a wire rack or paper towel.
5: Serve and Enjoy!
- Serve hot with garlic mayo, cheese dip, or just a sprinkle of parmesan and salt.
- They’re naturally sweet, crispy, and super snackable kids won’t even know they’re eating squash!
Tips for the Crispiest Kalabasa Fries
“Cut fries evenly and fry in hot oil without crowding the pan that’s the key to a crispy, golden result every time!”
- Use fresh squash it fries better than frozen or overly ripe ones.
- Don’t skip the cornstarch. It forms a dry, crunchy exterior.
- Let excess oil drip off on a rack don’t trap steam with a towel.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
| Calories | 160 kcal |
|---|---|
| Carbs | 18 g |
| Fat | 8 g |
| Protein | 2 g |
Make It a Full Snack Platter
- Pair with crispy chicken strips for a complete snack plate
- Serve with creamy garlic dipping sauce
These squash fries are golden perfection crispy outside, tender inside, and full of flavor.
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Creative Twists on Classic Kalabasa Fries
Once you’ve mastered the classic version, it’s time to get creative. Kalabasa fries are the perfect blank canvas for bold flavors. Whether you’re going savory, spicy, or sweet, here are some delicious ways to switch things up and impress your snack loving crew.
1. Garlic Parmesan Kalabasa Fries
- Toss the hot fries in melted butter, garlic powder, and grated parmesan.
- Finish with chopped parsley for a gourmet touch.
- Pairs perfectly with cheddar drop biscuits for a bistro style plate.
2. Spicy Cheese Fries
- After frying, sprinkle kalabasa fries with chili powder and cayenne.
- Top with shredded cheddar or drizzle with cheese sauce.
- Add crushed red pepper for serious heat.
3. Sweet Cinnamon Sugar Version
- Skip the crispy fry mix just use cornstarch.
- After frying, coat in cinnamon sugar instead of salt.
- Serve with chocolate or caramel dip.
- This version goes great with no bake banana oat bars for a dessert snack plate.
4. Baked Kalabasa Fries (Healthier)
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Toss fries in a tablespoon of oil and coating mix.
- Spread on a baking sheet in a single layer.
- Bake 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crisp.
Serving Suggestions for Any Occasion
These versatile fries work for nearly any setting. Here’s how I like to serve them:
- Afternoon snack: Serve with lemonade or a fruit smoothie.
- Kids’ lunchbox: Pack in a thermos with chicken nuggets or savory veggie puffs.
- Potluck party: Offer with a trio of dips: garlic mayo, sriracha ranch, and honey mustard.
- Game night: Serve on a platter with cheesy potato balls and nachos.
Storage and Reheating Tips
“Fries are best served hot, but here’s how to revive their crispiness if you need to store them.”
- To store: Cool completely and refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- To reheat: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes or air fry until crispy.
- Avoid microwaving they’ll turn soggy fast.
Reader Favorite Variations
| Version | Main Add On | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|
| Classic | Crispy mix + salt | Simple and Savory |
| Cheesy | Grated cheese | Bold and Salty |
| Sweet | Cinnamon sugar | Dessert style |
| Spicy | Chili powder | Fiery Snack |
Kitchen Tip
Cut your kalabasa fries thinner for extra crispiness or slightly thicker for a soft interior. I find the perfect size is around 1/4-inch thick it holds its shape and crunch without drying out.
Coming next: In Part 3, we’ll cover frequently asked questions, troubleshooting tips, and bonus storage hacks for leftovers!
FAQs About Kalabasa Fries
What type of squash works best for kalabasa fries?
Use firm fleshed varieties like kalabasa (Philippine pumpkin), butternut squash, or kabocha. Avoid watery squash like zucchini they won’t crisp well.
Can I air fry kalabasa fries instead of deep frying?
Yes! Just coat the squash strips lightly with oil and air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes. Shake halfway through. They won’t be as crispy as deep fried, but still delicious.
How do I keep kalabasa fries from getting soggy?
Make sure to pat the squash dry before coating. Also, fry in hot oil (around 350°F or 175°C) and avoid overcrowding the pan. Let them drain on a rack or paper towel immediately after frying.
Can I make the batter ahead of time?
It’s better to prep the cut squash and mix the dry coating separately. Only combine the coating and fries right before frying to keep the texture crisp.
What sauces pair well with kalabasa fries?
Try garlic aioli, cheese dip, honey mustard, or spicy mayo. For sweet versions, serve with chocolate sauce or a drizzle of maple syrup.
Final Thoughts from the Chef
“Kalabasa fries prove that even the simplest ingredients can create unforgettable bites. Whether you serve them sweet or savory, this recipe brings the golden crunch and cozy flavor every time.”
Once you try these addictive fries, you’ll find yourself craving more ways to enjoy squash. I recommend pairing them with these fluffy honey butter rolls for the ultimate golden snack spread.
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