Seasoned Fries Recipe
Make Seasoned Fries Recipe in just 1h 15m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.
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Ingredients
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Fries
Seasoning
Method
Fries
Prepare potatoes
Wash and peel the potatoes if you prefer (leaving the skin on is fine). Cut each potato into 1/4–1/2 inch thick sticks for classic fries. Aim for uniform thickness so they cook evenly.
Rinse and soak
Place the cut fries in a large bowl of cold water. Rinse and swish to remove surface starch, then drain and refill with fresh cold water. Add the 2 cups of ice and the 4 cups cold water (or chill in the refrigerator) and soak for at least 30 minutes and up to 2 hours. This firms the potato and removes extra starch for crisper fries.
Dry thoroughly
After soaking, drain the fries in a colander and spread them on clean kitchen towels or paper towels. Pat completely dry; any surface moisture will cause oil splatter and reduce crispness.
Par-fry (first fry)
Heat the neutral oil in a heavy pot or deep fryer to 325°F (160°C). Working in batches that don't crowd the pot, fry the potatoes for 3–4 minutes until they are softened and pale (not browned). Use a slotted spoon to transfer fries to a wire rack or paper towel-lined tray to drain. Let cool for 10 minutes.
Final fry
Increase the oil temperature to 375°F (190°C). Return the cooled fries to the hot oil in batches and fry until golden brown and crisp, about 2–3 minutes per batch. Drain on a rack or paper towel-lined tray to remove excess oil.
Seasoning
Mix seasoning
While the fries are cooling slightly after the final fry, combine kosher salt, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, dried oregano/thyme (if using), and cornstarch in a small bowl. Whisk until evenly distributed. The cornstarch helps the seasoning cling to the fries.
Coat fries
Place a single batch of hot fries in a large mixing bowl or a paper-lined container. Sprinkle about a third of the seasoning mix over the fries and toss gently but thoroughly (use tongs or shake the container) until evenly coated. Taste and adjust seasoning—add finishing salt if desired. Repeat with remaining batches.
Serve
Serve the seasoned fries immediately while hot and crisp with ketchup, aioli, or your preferred dipping sauce.