Fake Fry 101

While fried food is delicious and we can't  seem to get away from it, the fact of the matter is we sometimes have to just say NO.  But what are we saying no to?  Is it the flavor, crispness, or fatty goodness?  Well, if you guessed fatty goodness you are halfway correct.  You can still have the flavor, crunch and goodness with a fraction of the fat and calories.  Take for instance a delicious dish we made for St Patrick's Day.  We filled egg rolls with corned beef, kraut, cabbage, carrots and Swiss cheese.  These reuben egg rolls were not only fried but dipped in homemade 1000 island dressing.  SPLURGE!  So, you don't want to waste your entire workout on one tasty treat?  There is another way.  We like to call it frying on a curve.  It's our way to cheat the system.  We are getting an A for health with these tips on oven frying. 

Lesson 1:
Shake n' Bake

It is totally underrated and underused.  There are a variety of flavors and the box has picture instructions!  Cheat sheets if you will.  From oven fried chicken to fish and chips there is endless possibilities.  Check it out in aisle 7.

Lesson 2:
A Little Spray Goes A Long Way

Like our egg roll idea?  These little gems can be baked.  Take any recipe that calls for won ton wrappers or egg roll wrappers, follow the directions until you get to the part that says "deep fat fry".  STOP!  Place items on a sprayed baking sheet and bake at 350 degrees until golden brown and crisp.

Lesson 3:
Don't Skip the Starch 

Who doesn't like french  fries?  I mean, who doesn't love french fries.  These too can get an A for health by simply baking instead of frying.  Cut your potatoes in wedges, cubes or french style, toss in a little olive oil, season and bake.  All it takes is 30-45 minutes in a 350 degree oven, depending on the size of cut.

Well kids, class is over.  If you would like recipes for delicious oven fried foods email Two Girls 'n' a Grocery Store at 1092clubmgr@hy-vee.com.