Sunday, January 1, 2006

Gluten-Free Potato Sticks with Roasted Tomato Salsa


These crispy potato sticks are so easy to make- 
a perfect snack for those allergic to corn, 
wheat, rice and soy. Add spices if you like.

Crispy Potato Sticks with Roasted Tomato Salsa Recipe



For those avoiding corn and jonesing for chips and salsa, these crispy potato sticks are a goddess-send. Roasting thin strips of potatoes in a hot oven creates a crisp and flavorful fry. You can also serve them classic style, with sea salt. Offer a drizzle of apple cider vinegar or ketchup.

1 Russet or Idaho baking potato per person
Safflower oil, or other high-heat stable oil such as Canola

To serve:

Old Bay Seasoning, or chili powder, if desired
Sea salt
Roasted Tomato Salsa- recipe below.

Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F. Line a baking sheet (or two) with parchment (this helps the potatoes get crispy).

Scrub and rinse the potatoes; dry them off and quarter them; halve again and slice into long thin matchsticks.

Toss the potato sticks into a bowl. Drizzle with just enough oil to coat; season and toss well.

Spread the potato sticks on the parchment lined baking sheet(s) in a single layer. Place in the upper third of the oven and bake for ten minutes.

Using a thin flexible spatula, turn the sticks over and return them to the oven for another ten minutes or so until the potatoes are golden and sizzling on the outside, yet still tender in the center.

Drain the potato sticks briefly on a paper towel; sprinkle with sea salt.

Serve immediately with a side of homemade Roasted Tomato Salsa (recipe follows). Other dipping options include: Muir Glen Ketchup or your favorite Ranch-style dip.



Roasted Tomato Salsa


1 1/2 pounds plum tomatoes, seeded, roasted and chopped- or use Muir Glen canned organic fire–roasted whole tomatoes, drained and chopped
2 tablespoons red onion, diced very fine
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar- or lime juice
1/2 teaspoon sea salt
1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon ground chipotle or cayenne pepper, to taste
Pinch of organic sugar or agave nectar, to taste

Combine the salsa ingredients in a bowl, cover and chill for an hour. Taste for seasoning adjustments. Cover and keep chilled for up to 4 days- if it lasts that long.

You can also add 1/2 cup of any of the following- if your little heart desires:

Finely chopped yellow or green bell peppers
Roasted corn kernels
Black or white beans