Perfect Crispy French Fries
Ingredients
- 4 large russet potatoes
- 2-3 cups cold water
- 2-3 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying)
- Salt (to taste)
Instructions
- Prep the Potatoes:
- Peel the potatoes (if desired) and cut them into even sticks, about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick.
- Soak:
- Place the cut potatoes in a bowl of cold water. Soak for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours. This helps remove excess starch and makes them crispier.
- Drain and Dry:
- After soaking, drain the potatoes and pat them dry with paper towels. Make sure they are as dry as possible to avoid splattering when frying.
- Preheat Oil:
- In a large pot or deep fryer, heat the oil to 325°F (160°C). You can test the oil by dropping in a small piece of potato; it should sizzle.
- First Fry:
- Fry the potatoes in batches for about 4-5 minutes, or until they are soft but not browned. Remove them with a slotted spoon and place them on paper towels to drain.
- Increase Heat:
- Increase the oil temperature to 375°F (190°C).
- Second Fry:
- Fry the potatoes again in batches for about 2-3 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- Season:
- While still hot, sprinkle with salt to taste.
- Serve:
- Enjoy your crispy French fries hot, with your favorite dipping sauces!
Tips
- For extra flavor, you can add garlic powder, paprika, or other seasonings to the fries before serving.
- If you prefer baked fries, toss the soaked and dried potatoes with a little oil and bake at 425°F (220°C) for about 30-40 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Enjoy your homemade crispy French fries! 🍟