Chilli cheese fries are a beloved comfort food, combining crispy fries with a rich, flavourful chilli sauce and melted cheese. While traditional recipes often include minced meat, this vegetarian version provides all the savoury goodness without any meat. Packed with hearty beans, vegetables, and a spicy kick, these chilli cheese fries are the perfect treat for anyone looking for a meatless yet satisfying meal. Whether you’re serving them as a snack, side dish, or a casual dinner, these chilli cheese fries are sure to impress!
Ingredients:
For the Fries:
•4 medium-sized potatoes (or store-bought frozen fries)
•1 tablespoon olive oil
•Salt to taste
•Black pepper to taste
•Optional: Paprika, garlic powder, or cayenne for extra flavour
For the Chilli Sauce:
•1 tablespoon olive oil
•1 medium onion, diced
•1 bell pepper, diced
•2 cloves garlic, minced
•1 can (400g) kidney beans or black beans, drained and rinsed
•1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes
•1 teaspoon ground cumin
•1 teaspoon chilli powder (adjust based on preferred spice level)
•1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
•Salt and pepper to taste
•1/2 cup vegetable broth or water
•1 tablespoon tomato paste (optional for thicker consistency)
For the Cheese:
•1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a cheese of your choice)
•Fresh cilantro or green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Fries:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). If you’re using fresh potatoes, peel them and cut them into thin strips, ensuring they are roughly the same size for even cooking. Toss the fries in olive oil, salt, and black pepper. For an extra kick, sprinkle paprika or garlic powder over the fries before placing them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spread the fries out in a single layer to ensure they crisp up evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the fries are golden and crispy. If you prefer to use store-bought frozen fries, follow the package instructions for baking.
2. Make the Chilli Sauce:
While the fries are baking, heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper, cooking for 5-7 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
Next, stir in the beans, crushed tomatoes, ground cumin, chilli powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Pour in the vegetable broth (or water) and stir everything together. Let the mixture simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened and the flavours have melded together. If you prefer a thicker consistency, add a tablespoon of tomato paste and stir to combine. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed. Once done, remove from heat and set aside.
3. Assemble the Chilli Cheese Fries:
Once the fries are baked to perfection, remove them from the oven and transfer them to a serving plate. Spoon the hot chilli sauce generously over the fries, making sure each fry is coated with the savoury sauce. Next, sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top of the fries and chilli sauce.
4. Melt the Cheese:
Place the assembled fries under the broiler in your oven for 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep a close eye on the fries to avoid burning the cheese.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Once the cheese is melted, remove the fries from the oven and garnish with fresh cilantro or chopped green onions for a burst of colour and freshness. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips and Variations:
•Spicy Kick: Add a diced jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce to the chilli sauce for an extra spicy bite.
•Toppings: For added texture and flavour, top with sour cream, avocado, or even a squeeze of lime.
•Cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella, pepper jack, or even vegan cheese for a dairy-free version.
These chilli cheese fries without mince are a delicious, satisfying, and vegetarian-friendly option for anyone craving a comfort food classic. With the rich flavours of the homemade chilli sauce and gooey melted cheese, they’re perfect for sharing or enjoying on your own.
By: A Gxidolo
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