Furikake is a vibrant Japanese seasoning blend typically consisting of dried fish (though variations may include chicken, pork, egg, or beef), sesame seeds, seaweed flakes, sugar, and soy sauce. The interesting backstory is that a pharmacist originally developed it to encourage increased calcium consumption. While furikake is often sprinkled on rice or used to enhance onigiri, its versatility doesn’t stop there. It pairs beautifully with popcorn, scrambled eggs, avocado toast, ramen, vegetables, fish, and chicken. Imagine enhancing your French fries with an umami explosion that also brings a whisper of sweetness. After trying this combination, you may find yourself wondering why you hadn’t thought of it sooner.
Give Your Fries a Flavor Boost with Furikake
Crafting French fries from scratch can be a rewarding, yet involved, process. For optimal fries, start by rinsing and soaking the potatoes to remove excess starch. After they dry, deep-frying them twice is essential: first to cook through, and then to achieve that signature crispiness. However, if you’re not up for the challenge, using frozen French fries can be just as delightful. Options like deep-frying, oven-baking, or air-frying these frozen wonders can yield tasty results.
Whichever method you choose, sprinkle or toss your hot fries with furikake for the best flavor adhesion. If you’re a fan of sweet potato fries, this seasoning pairs wonderfully, combining the natural sweetness of the potatoes with the savory umami. When it comes to dipping sauces, consider keeping the Asian theme alive. A mix of mayonnaise with spicy sriracha, along with a hint of sesame oil, would complement your fries nicely. Alternatively, create wasabi mayo or blend creamy dressing with teriyaki sauce for a touch of sweetness.
