How to Make Loaded Fries the South African Way

Loaded fries are a beloved comfort food around the world, and South Africa has its own unique take on this delicious dish. Combining the richness of local flavors with the universal appeal of crispy fries, South African loaded fries offer a delightful fusion of taste and texture. Here’s how to make this mouth-watering snack at home.

Ingredients

For the Fries:

• 4 large potatoes, peeled and cut into fries
• Vegetable oil for frying
• Salt to taste

For the Toppings:

• 200g beef mince (ground beef)
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 can (400g) chopped tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup fresh coriander leaves, chopped
• 1 avocado, diced
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons peri-peri sauce (optional, for extra heat)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Fries

1. Cut and Soak: Peel and cut the potatoes into fries. Soak them in cold water for at least 30 minutes to remove excess starch, which helps them become crispy.
2. Fry the Potatoes: Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or a large pot to 175°C (350°F). Fry the potatoes in batches until they are golden brown and crispy, about 4-5 minutes per batch. Drain on paper towels and season with salt.

Step 2: Prepare the Beef Mince Topping

1. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until softened and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
2. Cook the Beef: Add the beef mince to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add the Spices and Vegetables: Stir in the diced bell peppers, cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, and chili powder. Cook for another 5 minutes until the peppers are soft.
4. Simmer the Sauce: Add the chopped tomatoes and tomato paste. Season with salt and pepper. Reduce the heat and let the mixture simmer for 15-20 minutes until it thickens.

Step 3: Assemble the Loaded Fries

1. Layer the Fries: Spread the crispy fries on a large baking sheet or platter.
2. Add the Beef Mixture: Spoon the beef mince mixture evenly over the fries.
3. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese generously over the top.
4. Bake to Melt the Cheese: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Place the loaded fries in the oven and bake for 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

1. Add Fresh Toppings: Once out of the oven, top the loaded fries with diced avocado, chopped fresh coriander leaves, and dollops of sour cream. For an extra kick, drizzle with peri-peri sauce.
2. Serve Immediately: Serve the loaded fries hot, straight from the oven, to enjoy the perfect blend of crispy fries, savory beef, melted cheese, and fresh, zesty toppings.

Tips for Perfect Loaded Fries

1. Crispy Fries: Soaking the potatoes in cold water is crucial for removing excess starch, which helps achieve crispy fries. Make sure to dry them thoroughly before frying.
2. Uniform Frying: Fry the potatoes in small batches to avoid overcrowding the pot, ensuring that each fry cooks evenly and becomes crispy.
3. Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the toppings to enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
4. Customizable: Feel free to customize your loaded fries with additional toppings such as jalapeños, bacon bits, or a squeeze of fresh lime for a personal touch.

South African loaded fries are a delectable fusion of flavors, combining the hearty, spicy elements of local cuisine with the universally loved concept of loaded fries. This recipe brings together crispy fries, savory beef, and fresh, zesty toppings to create a dish that is perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying as a satisfying snack. Try making these loaded fries at home for a taste of South African comfort food that is sure to impress family and friends.