Step 1: Boil the Potatoes
Peel the potatoes and place them in a large pot of salted water. Boil for 15–20 minutes, or until they are fork-tender. Drain well and let them sit for a few minutes to remove excess moisture.
Step 2: Mash Until Smooth
Transfer the potatoes to a large mixing bowl and mash them until completely smooth. Avoid leaving any lumps, as they can make shaping difficult.
Step 3: Add the Seasonings
Add the cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder (if using), black pepper, salt, and 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Mix everything together until a soft, smooth dough forms. If the dough feels sticky, add a little more cornstarch, one tablespoon at a time.
Step 4: Chill the Dough
Shape the dough into a ball, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for about 30 minutes. Chilling makes the dough easier to roll and cut.
Step 5: Roll Out the Dough
Lightly dust your work surface with cornstarch. Roll the dough out to about ¼ inch (6 mm) thick using a rolling pin.
Step 6: Cut the Smiley Shapes
Use a round cookie cutter or a small glass to cut circles from the dough. Create two eye holes using a straw or chopstick, then use the edge of a spoon to gently press a smiling mouth into each circle.
Step 7: Heat the Oil
Pour enough vegetable oil into a deep pan or fryer to fully submerge the potato smiles. Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C).
Step 8: Fry Until Golden
Carefully fry the potato smiles in small batches for 3–4 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the pan.
Step 9: Drain the Excess Oil
Remove the fries with a slotted spoon and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
Step 10: Serve and Enjoy
Serve immediately while hot and crispy with your favorite dipping sauces such as ketchup, ranch, cheese sauce, or spicy mayo.
Tips
- Dry potatoes thoroughly after boiling to prevent a sticky dough.
- Chill the dough before rolling for cleaner cuts.
- Freeze the uncooked smiley potatoes on a baking tray until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Fry directly from frozen, adding 1–2 extra minutes to the cooking time.
- For extra flavor, mix in a pinch of paprika, dried parsley, or grated Parmesan cheese.
Enjoy your homemade Smiley Potato Fries—crispy, fluffy, and guaranteed to bring smiles to the table!