French Fries Recipe

Directions

1. 1

   Preparing the Potatoes

   Start by washing the Russet potatoes thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt. Peel the potatoes if desired, then cut them into thin, even sticks, approximately 1/4 inch thick.

2. 2

   Soaking the Potatoes

   Place the cut potatoes in a large bowl of cold water. Allow them to soak for at least 30 minutes. This step helps to remove excess starch, resulting in crispier fries.

3. 3

   Draining and Drying

   After soaking, drain the potatoes and pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. This is crucial to avoid oil splatter during frying.

4. 4

   Heating the Oil

   In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to accurately gauge the temperature.

5. 5

   Frying the Potatoes

   Carefully add a handful of the dried potatoes into the hot oil. Do not overcrowd the pot. Fry for about 4-5 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and place on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

6. 6

   Seasoning the Fries

   While the fries are still hot, sprinkle them with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Toss gently to ensure even coating.

7. 7

   Serving

   Serve the French fries immediately while hot and crispy. Enjoy them as is or with your favorite dipping sauces.