We very rarely take the children out for dinner, rather opting for the occasional pizza. It’s not that we don’t want to but I hate paying exorbitant prices for food that I can cook just as well at home. They do frequent a particular restaurant with the Dad that makes ‘curly fries’ and they rave about them, especially my fried potato loving daughter who won’t eat anything else.

I’m also not in the habit of buying new gadgets or appliances but I did happen to see a ‘slinky machine’ on a recent shopping trip which had been marked down. My kids love eating the apple once it’s been ‘slinked’, skin and all. I had some long, skinny potatoes so thought I’d try my hand at ‘slinking’ the potato and they didn’t turn out too bad.

I chose to keep the skin on but the gadget does have an in-built peeler. Oh, it was also a good opportunity to get the kids to help prep dinner. They love operating the slinky machine.

Once the machine has done it’s job, https://www.performancesaab.com/profile/4832214 you’re left with what is the ‘core’ of the potato and they got ‘fried’ as well. I don’t own a deep fryer nor do I like deep frying food so I oven baked these fries and they turned out lovely and crisp.

Sometimes little bits broke off but most of the time I was left with the entire ‘curl’ from the potato.

Toss them in a bowl with plenty of salt and pepper and a drizzle of olive oil.

Then put on an oven tray in a moderately hot oven until crispy and golden brown.

Everyone loved them. I loved the ‘cores’ the best as they were light and fluffy inside. Not sure I’d go to the trouble again but for a special occasion, they were a bit of fun and not a single one was left. I’m not sure what you could substitute if you don’t have a slinky machine but I know there are heaps of gadgets on the market out there for ‘curling’ vegetables. I might try carrot next time.