Crispy Curls from Hardee's/Carl's Jr. feature golden, crunchy potato spirals seasoned with a savory blend of spices, delivering a crispy texture and bold flavor in every bite.
Equipments
- Potato spiral cutter / spiralizer
- Deep fryer
- Mixing bowl
- Slotted spoon or frying basket
- Baking sheet or tray (for draining)
- Paper towels
- Tongs
Ingredients
- 2 large russet potatoes
- 4 cups vegetable oil (for frying)
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Russet potatoes are ideal for making Crispy Curls due to their starchy texture, which helps achieve a crunchy exterior when fried. Using cornstarch in the seasoning mix enhances crispiness by absorbing moisture during frying. Maintain the oil temperature around 350degF to ensure even cooking and prevent soggy spirals. Make sure to drain the fried potato curls on paper towels to remove excess oil for a lighter bite. Your homemade Crispy Curls will closely replicate the savory, bold flavors found in Hardee's and Carl's Jr. copycat menus.
Instructions
- Wash and peel the russet potatoes.
- Use a potato spiral cutter/spiralizer to cut potatoes into spirals.
- Rinse potato spirals in cold water to remove excess starch.
- Pat potato spirals dry thoroughly with paper towels.
- In a mixing bowl, combine cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
- Toss dried potato spirals in the seasoning mix until evenly coated.
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Carefully add seasoned potato spirals to the hot oil in batches.
- Fry until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per batch.
- Use a slotted spoon or frying basket to remove curls from oil.
- Place fried curls on a baking sheet or tray lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Serve hot.
Substitution
Crispy Curls from Hardee's/Carl's Jr. copycat menu recreate the iconic golden, crunchy spiral potatoes with a perfect blend of spices for that bold, savory taste. If you don't have a potato spiral cutter or spiralizer, a julienne peeler can produce similar thin strips, though the shape may vary slightly. Vegetable oil is recommended for deep frying, but canola or peanut oil are good alternatives due to their high smoke points. Adjust the seasoning mix to suit your taste, especially if you want to tone down the cayenne pepper for less heat. After frying, place your curls on paper towels to drain excess oil and keep them crispy.
Tips
To ensure your Crispy Curls turn out perfectly crunchy, pat the potato spirals completely dry before seasoning to prevent oil splatter and soggy texture. Maintain the oil temperature consistently at 350degF (175degC) for even cooking and browning. Avoid overcrowding the fryer, as this can lower the oil temperature and result in greasy curls. Use tongs or a slotted spoon to handle the hot potato spirals safely and drain them thoroughly on paper towels to keep them crispy.
Nutritions
Crispy Curls from Hardee's/Carl's Jr. provide a crunchy and flavorful snack option made from russet potatoes, which are a good source of carbohydrates and dietary fiber. The seasoning blend contains spices like paprika, garlic, and cayenne pepper that add antioxidants and enhance flavor without adding significant calories. Frying these potato spirals in vegetable oil increases their fat content, so moderation is important if you're watching your intake. Your choice to prepare these curls at home gives you control over the oil and seasoning, making it easier to balance taste and nutrition.
Storage
Store leftover crispy curls in an airtight container lined with paper towels to absorb excess moisture and maintain crunchiness. Keep the container in the refrigerator, and consume within 2 days for optimal flavor and texture. When reheating, use an oven or air fryer at 350degF (175degC) for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness without sogginess.
Variation or Alternatives
You can experiment with using sweet potatoes instead of russet potatoes for a slightly sweeter flavor and vibrant color. Try adding a pinch of smoked paprika or cumin to the seasoning mix to enhance the smoky depth of the spice blend. For a healthier alternative, bake the potato spirals on a greased baking sheet at 425degF (220degC) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway to ensure even crispiness. Swapping vegetable oil for avocado oil can offer a higher smoke point and a subtle nutty taste.
Allergies
Your Crispy Curls from Hardee's/Carl's Jr. contain potatoes and a blend of spices such as paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder, which may trigger allergies in some individuals sensitive to nightshades or alliums. The frying process uses vegetable oil, so those with soy or peanut allergies should confirm the specific oil type used at the restaurant to avoid possible reactions. Cross-contamination risks may exist during preparation, so informing the staff about your allergies is important for safe consumption.
Why this recipe?
Crispy Curls from Hardee's/Carl's Jr. are favored for their unique spiral shape and perfectly seasoned, crunchy texture that delivers a satisfying bite every time. Made with high-quality potatoes and a blend of savory spices, they offer a flavorful twist on traditional fries that keeps customers coming back. Your homemade copycat version allows you to customize seasoning levels and savor fresh, crispy curls made right in your kitchen. Replicating this iconic side dish lets you enjoy restaurant-quality taste and texture anytime.