11 May 2025
Cook time 25 min
Prep time 30 min
Ingredients:
6 potatoes
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
French fries are a universally loved snack and side dish, known for their crispy exterior and fluffy interior. This recipe uses simple ingredients and a straightforward method to create delicious home-cooked fries that rival any restaurant offering. Whether you're enjoying them on their own or pairing them with your favorite condiment, these French fries are sure to be a hit!
Instructions:
1. Preparation:
- Peel the potatoes using a potato peeler and rinse them under cold water.
- Cut the peeled potatoes lengthwise into evenly sized sticks. Aim for a thickness of about 1/4 inch (~0.6 cm) to ensure they cook evenly.
2. Soak the Potatoes:
- Place the potato sticks into a large bowl filled with cold water. This helps to remove excess starch, which makes the fries crispy.
- Let them soak for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, soaking for up to 2 hours is even better.
- Drain the potatoes and pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels. Removing excess moisture is crucial for crispy fries.
3. Heat the Oil:
- If using a deep fryer, preheat the oil to 325°F (163°C). If using a large pot, fill it with oil (enough to fully submerge the fries) and use a thermometer to monitor the temperature.
- Make sure not to overcrowd the pot to maintain a consistent temperature.
4. First Frying (Blanching):
- Working in batches, carefully lower the dry potato sticks into the hot oil.
- Fry the potatoes for about 4-5 minutes. They should become soft but not browned.
- Remove the blanched fries using a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
5. Increase Oil Temperature:
- Increase the oil temperature to 375°F (190°C). This higher temperature is necessary for the final frying to achieve a golden, crispy exterior.
6. Final Frying:
- Once the oil reaches 375°F (190°C), carefully lower the blanched fries back into the hot oil in batches.
- Fry for an additional 3-5 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy.
- Use a slotted spoon to remove the fries from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate or tray to drain any remaining oil.
7. Season the Fries:
- While the fries are still hot, sprinkle them evenly with the salt and black pepper. Toss gently to ensure they are well-seasoned.
8. Serve:
- Transfer the seasoned French fries to a serving platter. Enjoy them fresh and hot with your favorite dipping sauces, such as ketchup, mayonnaise, or aioli.
Tips:
- Choose starchy potatoes like Russets for the best texture.
- Soak the sliced potatoes in cold water for at least 30 minutes to remove excess starch and ensure crispiness.
- Dry the potatoes thoroughly before frying to prevent oil splatters and ensure even cooking.
- Fry the potatoes twice: once at a lower temperature to cook them through and again at a higher temperature to crisp the exterior.
- Season the fries immediately after frying to help the salt adhere better.
Making French fries at home can be a fun and rewarding experience. With just a few ingredients and some simple steps, you can create a delicious treat that is fresh, flavorful, and satisfying. Don't forget to experiment with different seasonings and dipping sauces to make this classic recipe uniquely yours. Happy cooking!