Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsBoxcar BistroHerbed Frites Recipe

Herbed Frites Recipe

Inspired by Boxcar Bistro
Time1h 10m
Serves4

Make Herbed Frites Recipe in just 1h 10m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.

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Ingredients

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Frites

Method

Frites

  1. 1

    Prep and soak

    Wash and peel the russet potatoes (peel optional). Cut into even 1/3–1/2-inch thick sticks. Place cut fries in a large bowl of cold water and let soak 30 minutes to remove surface starch (up to 2 hours if time allows).

  2. 2

    Rinse and dry

    Drain the potatoes and rinse under cold running water until water runs clear. Spread the fries on clean kitchen towels or paper towels and pat completely dry. Excess moisture will cause oil splatter and reduce crispness.

  3. 3

    First (blanch) fry

    Heat oil in a heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer to 300°F (150°C). Working in batches so you don’t overcrowd, fry the potatoes for 4–6 minutes until they are softened and beginning to pale but not browned. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on a wire rack or paper towels. Let cool 10–15 minutes. (You can refrigerate at this stage for up to a few hours.)

  4. 4

    Second (crisp) fry

    Increase oil temperature to 375–400°F (190–205°C). Fry the blanched fries in batches again for 2–4 minutes until golden brown and crisp. Remove to a wire rack or paper towels to drain briefly. Immediately season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper while still hot.

Herb Finish

  1. 5

    Prepare herb butter

    While the second fry is finishing (or right after), melt the unsalted butter with the extra-virgin olive oil in a small skillet over low heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 20–30 seconds just until fragrant (do not brown). Remove from heat and stir in the chopped parsley, rosemary, thyme, and lemon zest.

  2. 6

    Toss with herbs

    Place the hot frites in a large bowl or back on a warmed sheet pan. Pour the warm herb-butter mixture evenly over the fries and gently toss to coat using tongs or two spatulas so the fries remain crisp. Taste and adjust seasoning.

  3. 7

    Finish and serve

    Sprinkle flaky sea salt over the herbed frites and give a final gentle toss. Serve immediately so they retain maximum crispness.

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