Craving the satisfying crunch and cheesy flavor of Taco Bell’s Nacho Fries but committed to a vegan lifestyle? Look no further! This recipe recreates the magic of those iconic fries with a plant-based twist, allowing you to indulge in guilt-free deliciousness.
Recreating the Crunch: The Ultimate Vegan Nacho Fries
The key to perfect nacho fries lies in achieving that irresistible crispy exterior and fluffy interior. We’ll guide you through a simple yet effective method to guarantee fry perfection every time.
Ingredients for Vegan Nacho Fries:
- 2 large russet potatoes, scrubbed and cut into 1/2-inch thick fries
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Canola oil, for frying
Vegan nacho fries ingredients
Instructions for Crispy Vegan Nacho Fries:
- In a large bowl, toss the cut potatoes with cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Heat about 2 inches of canola oil in a large pot over medium-high heat to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to ensure the oil reaches the right temperature.
- Carefully lower a handful of fries into the hot oil and fry for 3-4 minutes, until lightly golden. Remove and drain on a wire rack lined with paper towels.
- Once all fries are par-fried, increase the heat to 375°F (190°C). Fry the potatoes in batches again for 2-3 minutes, until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from the oil and drain on the prepared wire rack. Season generously with salt while still hot.
Vegan nacho fries frying in oil
The Vegan Queso: Your Secret Weapon
No nacho fries experience is complete without a generous helping of cheesy goodness. This vegan queso, inspired by Taco Bell’s signature sauce, uses simple ingredients to create a creamy, flavorful topping that will have you going back for more.
Ingredients for Vegan Nacho Cheese Sauce:
- 1 cup raw cashews, soaked in hot water for at least 30 minutes
- 1/2 cup nutritional yeast
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon tahini
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt to taste
Ingredients for vegan nacho cheese sauce
Instructions for the Perfect Vegan Queso:
- Drain the soaked cashews and rinse them well.
- Combine all ingredients in a high-speed blender and blend until smooth and creamy.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a tablespoon of water at a time until the desired consistency is achieved.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
Chef’s Tip: “For an extra cheesy flavor, add a pinch of kala namak, also known as black salt, to the vegan queso. This unique ingredient adds a subtle eggy flavor reminiscent of traditional cheese sauce.” – Chef Anya Green
Blending vegan nacho cheese sauce
Assembling Your Vegan Nacho Fries Feast
Now that you have the perfect crispy fries and creamy queso, it’s time to assemble your vegan nacho fries!
- Arrange a generous portion of the crispy vegan nacho fries on a serving platter.
- Drizzle generously with the prepared vegan nacho cheese sauce.
Chef’s Tip: “Don’t be afraid to get creative with toppings! You can add all your favorite nacho toppings, like diced tomatoes, onions, jalapeños, vegan cheese sauce, vegan sour cream, or guacamole.” – Chef Anya Green
Assembled vegan nacho fries
Vegan Nacho Fries: FAQs and Tips
1. Can I bake the fries instead of frying them?
While frying yields the crispiest results, you can bake the fries at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, for a healthier option.
2. Can I make the vegan queso ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make the vegan queso up to 3 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
3. What can I substitute for cashews in the vegan queso?
You can substitute cashews with silken tofu or blanched almonds for a similar creamy texture.
4. Can I adjust the spice level of the recipe?
Yes, you can adjust the amount of smoked paprika and black pepper to suit your preferred spice level.
5. How should I store leftover vegan nacho fries?
It’s best to enjoy the fries immediately after preparation. However, you can store leftover fries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
Enjoy Your Vegan Taco Bell Experience!
This vegan take on Taco Bell’s Nacho Fries delivers all the flavor and satisfaction of the original, proving that plant-based eating doesn’t have to mean sacrificing your favorite indulgences. With its crispy fries and creamy vegan queso, this recipe is perfect for a fun snack, game day appetizer, or satisfying meal.
