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parsnip fries

Crunchy Parsnip Fries

Parsnips are very similar in appearance to carrots - though they're not in the same family of vegetables.  They have a slightly sweet flavor, but they're actually a bit savory and work great in this recipe.

Course Side Dish, Snack
Cuisine American
Keyword healthy french fries, parsnip sticks, parsnips
Prep Time 16 minutes
Cook Time 22 minutes
Total Time 38 minutes
Yield 4 people
Calories 109 kcal
Author Jessica Goldman Foung

Ingredients

  • 4 medium parsnips root ends trimmed
  • 2 tablespoons yellow medium-ground cornmeal
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt-free garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried dill
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 pinch cayenne pepper or to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F [200°C]. 

  2. Coat a large baking pan with vegetable oil or cover with aluminum foil.

  3. In a large resealable plastic bag or a big bowl, mix the cornmeal, vegetable oil, garlic powder, dill, black pepper, and cayenne. Add the parsnips. If using a bag, close and shake; if using a bowl, mix with your hands until the parsnip fries are coated with the cornmeal mixture. 

  4. Transfer the coated parsnips to the prepared baking pan, laying them out in a single layer. 

  5. Bake until crispy, 20 to 22 minutes, flipping halfway through.

  6. Serve warm.

Recipe Notes

Variation: Want a healthful topper for your next barbecue? Use a peeler to make long ribbons from the parsnips instead of fries, yielding about 2 cups [240 g]. Bake as directed until crispy, 8 to 10 minutes. Enjoy them like onion rings.