French Fries Recipe
Make French Fries Recipe in just 1h . Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.
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Ingredients
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Potatoes & Prep
Seasoning & Finish
Frying Media
Method
Potatoes & Prep
- 1
- 2
Cut into fries
Cut potatoes into evenly sized sticks about 8-10 mm (1/3 to 3/8 inch) thick. Try to keep pieces uniform so they cook evenly. Rinse cut fries briefly under cold water to remove surface starch.
- 3
Soak
Place the cut fries in a large bowl and cover with cold water (about 1.5 L). Add ice if available to keep water cold. Soak for at least 30 minutes, up to 2 hours. This removes excess starch and helps achieve crispiness.
- 4
Drain and dry
After soaking, drain the potatoes in a colander and rinse briefly under cold water. Spread them on clean kitchen towels or paper towels and pat thoroughly dry. Any surface moisture will cause oil to splatter and reduce crispiness.
Frying
- 5
Heat oil
Pour about 1.2 L of oil into a deep heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer, leaving at least 5 cm (2 in) headspace. Heat oil over medium-high heat with a thermometer attached until it reaches 160°C (320°F) for the first, blanching fry.
- 6
First fry (blanch)
Working in small batches (do not overcrowd), gently lower dried potato sticks into the oil and fry for 4 to 6 minutes until they are soft and pale (not browned). Remove with a slotted spoon and transfer to a wire rack or tray lined with paper towels to drain. Let them rest for 10–20 minutes. This step cooks the interior.
- 7
Increase oil temperature
Raise the oil temperature to 190–195°C (375–385°F) for the final crisping fry. Maintain this temperature between batches.
- 8
Second fry (crisp)
Fry the blanched fries in batches again for 2 to 4 minutes until golden brown and crisp. Remove with a slotted spoon and immediately transfer to a wire rack or paper towels to drain. Sprinkle with kosher salt while still hot so it adheres.
Seasoning & Serve
- 9
After the fries are drained and salted, season with freshly ground black pepper and, if using, garlic powder. Toss gently to distribute seasoning evenly. If desired, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for color and flavor.
- 10
Serve immediately while hot and crisp. Provide condiments such as ketchup, mayonnaise, or aioli on the side.