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Ingredients
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The Kona - Fries
The Kona - & KG Sauce
Method
The Kona - Fries
Prepare potatoes
Wash and peel the russet potatoes (peeling optional). Cut into even 1/4–3/8 inch thick sticks. Place cut potatoes into a large bowl of cold water immediately to prevent discoloration.
Soak
Cover the cut potatoes with cold water (about 3 cups) and add a few ice cubes if available. Soak for at least 30 minutes, preferably 1 hour, to remove excess starch. This helps achieve crispness.
Dry and dust
Drain the potatoes and pat thoroughly dry with clean kitchen towels or paper towels. Toss the dry fries with 1 tablespoon cornstarch, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper until lightly and evenly coated. Ensure no visible moisture remains.
Heat oil
In a heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer, heat vegetable oil to 325°F (160°C). Use enough oil to submerge the fries (about 700–900 ml depending on your pot). Maintain a thermometer to monitor temperature.
First fry (blanch)
Working in batches (do not overcrowd), fry the potatoes for 3–4 minutes until they are cooked through but still pale and soft. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on a wire rack or paper towels to drain. Allow fries to rest for 5–10 minutes.
Increase heat
Raise the oil temperature to 375°F (190°C) for the final crisping stage.
Second fry (crisp)
Fry the blanched fries in batches for 1.5–3 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp. Remove and drain on a wire rack or paper towels. Immediately season with a pinch additional salt while hot if desired.
Serve
Transfer fries to a serving platter. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot alongside the & KG Sauce.
The Kona - & KG Sauce
Combine sauce ingredients
In a small bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons ketchup, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon sweet pickle relish, 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce, 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/8 teaspoon black pepper until smooth and homogeneous.
Adjust and chill
Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning — add more lemon for brightness, more relish for sweetness or more smoked paprika for a smoky note. Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes to let flavors meld. Stir again before serving.
Serve with fries
Spoon the & KG Sauce into a small serving bowl or individual ramekins and place alongside the hot French fries for dipping.