Instructions: These potatoes really will satisfy the urge for good, old-fashioned greasy French fries, but they contain a lot less oil. Theyre good anytime, but are especially popular as an after-school snack.

Serves 6.

Preparation Time: 10 to 15 minutes.

Baking Time: 45 to 60 minutes

Preheat the oven to 425F.

Wash the potatoes well and peel, if you wish. In a large bowl, stir together the olive oil, paprika, and cumin and set aside. Cut the potatoes lengthwise into slices no thicker than A inch. Then cut through the stacked slices to make 1/2-inch-wide strips. Toss the potatoes in the oil and spices until well coated. Arrange the potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet prepared with cooking spray or lightly oiled. Bake for 45 to 60 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the fries are golden and crisp. Sprinkle with salt to taste and serve immediately.

VARIATIONS: For Sweet Potato Oven "Fries," replace the white potatoes with 2 pounds of sweet potatoes (about 2 large sweet potatoes) and bake for 25 to 40 minutes.

For Spicy Oven "Fries" with an Indian flair, use either white potatoes or sweet potatoes, replace the cumin and paprika with 1 teaspoon of garam masala, 1 teaspoon of black mustard seeds, and 1/2 teaspoon of ground black pepper, and add 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice to the spice and oil mixture. Bake just until crisp.

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