This recipe for sweet and spicy french fries aims to replicate the unique flavor profile found at Wingstop. The goal was to achieve a balance between sweetness and a subtle kick, which Wingstop has mastered on its own fries. This version incorporates a spicy element directly into the seasoning blend. While a close approximation, there is room for personal adjustment.

Preparation is straightforward, focusing on the seasoning blend. After cooking your preferred style of frozen french fries according to package directions, the key is the spice mixture. This blend consists of sugar, light brown sugar, salt, black pepper, paprika, chili powder, and garlic powder. Combining these thoroughly is crucial for even flavor distribution. A spoon, fork, or whisk can be used to break up any clumps of brown sugar and ensure all ingredients are incorporated. For optimal mixing, placing the spices in a closed container and shaking vigorously is recommended.

Once the fries are cooked and still warm, the prepared spice mixture is sprinkled over them. The warmth of the fries helps the seasoning adhere. The fries used in initial tests were a spicy variety, which, combined with the chili powder in the blend, resulted in a more pronounced heat than initially intended. For those who prefer less heat, using plain french fries would be advisable. Adjusting the salt content upward may also enhance the overall flavor balance, particularly when using plain fries. This seasoning pairs well alongside hot wings.

While ketchup is a common accompaniment, this recipe’s flavor profile is complemented by other dips. Good quality ranch dressing or warm cheddar cheese sauce are suitable options. In this kitchen, cheese sauce, particularly the kind often found in cans with designs resembling a circus tent and served at events, is informally referred to as "circus cheese" but you can make your own cheese sauce or select your favorite canned or jarred variety. These options provide a contrast to the sweet and spicy nature of the fries.

Sweet and Spicy French Fries

Prep Time: 5 mins | Cook Time: 20 mins | Yield: 4 servings

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Ingredients

• 2 (24 oz.) package frozen french fries (your choice of style)
• 1 Tablespoon sugar
• 1/2 Tablespoon light brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions

1. Cook french fries per package instructions.
2. Mix sugar, salt, pepper, and spices together thoroughly. Use a spoon, fork, or whisk to make sure the brown sugar is broken up and incorporated into the mixture. To get well mixed, you can put in a closed container and shake vigorously.
3. Sprinkle the spice mixture over the warm, freshly cooked fries.

Notes

While you can just serve this with ketchup, it works pretty well with good ranch dressing or some warm cheddar cheese sauce. The fries I used were spicy so this kicked it up a bit much. I may try to increase the salt and make sure to select plain french fries next time.