French Fries (v) Recipe

Directions

1. 1

   Prepare the Potatoes

   Start by washing the russet potatoes thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt. Peel the potatoes if desired, but leaving the skins on can add texture and flavor.

2. 2

   Cut the Potatoes

   Slice the potatoes into evenly sized sticks, about 1/4 inch thick. Try to keep them uniform to ensure even cooking.

3. 3

   Soak the Potatoes

   Place the cut potatoes in a large bowl of cold water. Soak for at least 30 minutes to remove excess starch, which helps achieve a crispier fry.

4. 4

   Drain and Dry

   After soaking, drain the potatoes and lay them out on a clean kitchen towel. Pat them dry thoroughly to remove excess moisture.

5. 5

   Heat the Oil

   In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or a deep fryer, heat the vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to monitor the temperature for safety and even frying.

6. 6

   Fry the Potatoes

   Carefully add the dried potato sticks in batches to the hot oil. Fry them for about 5-7 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the pot to maintain the oil temperature.

7. 7

   Drain and Season

   Use a slotted spoon to remove the fries from the oil and transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Immediately sprinkle with salt, black pepper, and paprika to taste.

8. 8

   Garnish and Serve

   If desired, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for added flavor and color. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces.