French fries are a beloved and classic dish enjoyed all around the world. These crispy, golden strips of potatoes have become a staple in fast food establishments, restaurants, and home kitchens alike. French fries are known for their irresistible crunch on the outside and their fluffy interior. Whether served as a side dish, a snack, or as part of a meal, French fries are universally adored for their versatility and addictive taste. In this recipe, we will guide you through the process of making perfectly crispy French fries at home, allowing you to enjoy this timeless favourite whenever the craving strikes.
Ingredients:
- 4 large potatoes
- Vegetable oil for frying
- Salt to taste
Instructions:
- Start by washing and peeling the potatoes. Pat them dry with a kitchen towel.
- Cut the potatoes lengthwise into even-sized sticks, about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick. You can leave the skin on if you prefer a more rustic texture.
- Place the cut potato sticks in a large bowl of cold water. Soak them for about 30 minutes. This step helps remove excess starch and ensures crispier fries.
- While the potatoes are soaking, heat the vegetable oil in a deep pot or deep-fryer to around 325°F (165°C).
- Once the potatoes have soaked, drain them and pat them dry with a kitchen towel to remove any excess moisture.
- Working in batches, carefully add a handful of the potato sticks to the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pot. Fry them for about 5-6 minutes or until they are pale and slightly softened. This step is called blanching and helps cook the interior of the fries.
- Using a slotted spoon or tongs, remove the partially cooked fries from the oil and place them on a tray lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Allow them to cool for a few minutes.
- Increase the heat of the oil to 375°F (190°C).
- Once the oil is hot, add the blanched fries back into the oil in batches. Fry them for an additional 3-4 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy.
- Again, use a slotted spoon or tongs to remove the fries from the oil, allowing any excess oil to drain. Transfer them to a tray lined with paper towels to absorb any remaining oil.
- Sprinkle salt over the freshly fried French fries while they are still hot. Toss them gently to ensure the salt is evenly distributed.
- Repeat the frying process with the remaining batches of potatoes until all the French fries are cooked.
- Serve the crispy French fries immediately as a standalone snack or as a side dish alongside burgers, sandwiches, or any other main course of your choice.
French fries are best enjoyed fresh out of the fryer when they are at their peak crispiness. However, if you have any leftovers, you can reheat them in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for a few minutes to restore some of their original crunch.