Crispy Parsnip Fries for Toddlers – A Gut-Healing, Nutrient-Dense Alternative to Potatoes
Parsnips are an incredible, nutrient-dense alternative to potatoes, especially for toddlers who need gut-healing, easy-to-digest foods. These crispy parsnip fries deliver all the delicious crunch and flavor of regular fries—but with more fiber, vitamins, and gut-healing properties.
Many toddlers struggle with blood sugar regulation, digestive issues, and nutrient deficiencies—especially if they’ve had antibiotics, eczema, or food sensitivities. That’s why choosing nutrient-dense, gut-supportive foods like parsnips is key.
I seasoned these with Loisa’s Organic Sazón, but you can also use Pluck Zesty Garlic Seasoning for an extra boost of minerals and organ meats. Both seasonings are made with real, high-quality ingredients that provide additional health benefits beyond just flavor!
Why Parsnips Instead of Potatoes?
Potatoes are a common first food for babies and toddlers, but they can cause blood sugar spikes, gut irritation, and inflammation—especially when fried in seed oils. Parsnips, on the other hand, offer:
Soluble Fiber for Gut Health – Supports digestion and feeds beneficial gut bacteria. Unlike potatoes, parsnips contain inulin, a prebiotic fiber that helps strengthen the microbiome.
Better Blood Sugar Balance – Parsnips contain less starch than potatoes, which means fewer blood sugar crashes, more stable energy, and fewer toddler meltdowns.
High in Folate & B Vitamins – Essential for brain development, energy production, and mood regulation.
Rich in Vitamin C & Antioxidants – Helps support immune function and collagen production, keeping skin healthy and reducing inflammation.
Toddler-Approved Flavor – Naturally slightly sweet, making them appealing even to picky eaters!
The Secret to Crispy Parsnip Fries (No Chewiness!)
One of the biggest complaints about baked parsnip fries is that they turn out chewy instead of crispy. But don’t worry—I’ve cracked the code for perfectly crisp fries every time!
1. Remove Excess Moisture
Parsnips contain a lot of water, which leads to soggy fries if not handled properly.
✔ Soak them in ice water for 30 minutes before cooking to remove excess starch.
✔ Pat them completely dry before seasoning and baking.
2. Slice Them Thin & Evenly
✔ Cut parsnips into thin, uniform matchsticks for even cooking.
✔ Avoid making them too thick, or they’ll stay chewy in the center.
3. Use Healthy Fats for Crispiness
✔ Beef tallow, duck fat, avocado oil or ghee will create a crispy, golden exterior while supporting gut health.
4. High Heat is Key
✔ Bake at 425°F for proper caramelization.
✔ Preheat the baking sheet to jump-start crisping.
Crispy Parsnip Fries Recipe (Toddler-Friendly!)
Ingredients:
2 large organic parsnips, peeled and cut into matchsticks
1 tbsp beef tallow, duck fat, avocado oil or ghee
2 tbsp Loisa Organic Sazón Seasoning (or Pluck Zesty Garlic Seasoning)
½ tsp Redmond Real Salt
Instructions:
Soak parsnips in ice water for 30 minutes, then drain and pat dry.
Preheat oven to 425°F and place a baking sheet inside to heat up.
Toss parsnip sticks with melted tallow/ghee, seasoning, and salt.
Spread fries evenly on the preheated baking sheet (don’t overcrowd!).
Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
Let cool slightly before serving to toddlers.
Choosing the Best Seasoning: Loisa Sazón vs. Pluck Zesty Garlic
I used Loisa’s Organic Sazón, but you can also swap in Pluck Zesty Garlic for an even bigger nutritional boost.
Loisa Organic Sazón
Loisa’s Sazón is certified organic, non-GMO, and free from fillers or MSG, making it a clean and flavorful way to introduce spices to your toddler’s diet.
✔ Made with turmeric, cumin, garlic, coriander, annatto, and oregano, this blend is packed with:
Turmeric – Anti-inflammatory and supports digestion.
Cumin – Helps with digestion and gut motility.
Garlic & Oregano – Naturally antimicrobial and supports the immune system.
Coriander – Aids digestion and reduces bloating.
Pluck Zesty Garlic Seasoning
Pluck isn’t just a seasoning—it’s a nutritional powerhouse. Unlike conventional seasonings, it incorporates organ meats, which are rich in essential vitamins, minerals, and amino acids toddlers need for proper growth and development.
✔ Beef Organ Meat Blend (Liver, Kidney, Spleen, Heart, Pancreas) – Provides heme iron, B vitamins, vitamin A, and essential coenzymes needed for brain development, metabolism, and immune function. Most toddlers are deficient in these key nutrients!
✔ Onion & Garlic – Natural prebiotics that feed beneficial gut bacteria and support digestion.
✔ Lemon Peel – High in vitamin C, which boosts immunity and helps absorb iron from the organ meats.
✔ Carrot & Parsley – Loaded with beta-carotene for vision health and chlorophyll for detox support.
✔ Oregano, Marjoram, Basil, Thyme – Anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and supportive of digestion.
✔ Redmond Real Salt – Mineral-rich, unrefined salt that provides electrolytes for hydration and cellular function.
Storage & Reheating Tips
These fries store well, making them perfect for batch cooking!
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Freeze raw, uncooked fries in a single layer, then transfer to a bag. Bake directly from frozen at 425°F for 25–30 minutes.
Reheat: Bake at 400°F for 5–7 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it makes them soggy.
The Perfect Toddler Side
✔ Parsnip fries offer gut-healing, blood sugar-balancing benefits, making them a superior alternative to potatoes.
✔ Healthy fats like beef tallow & ghee boost nutrient absorption and digestion.
✔ Loisa Organic Sazón & Pluck Zesty Garlic both provide immune-boosting, digestion-supporting herbs and spices.
✔ Easy to prep, batch-cook, and freeze, making them a practical and nutritious side for busy moms.