Regular Fries Recipe
Make Regular 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
Soak & rinse
Frying
Seasoning
Method
Prepare potatoes
Wash and cut
Scrub the russet potatoes thoroughly under running water to remove dirt. Leave the skin on or peel if preferred. Cut each potato into 1/4- to 3/8-inch thick sticks: halve lengthwise, then slice each half into even planks and then into sticks. Aim for consistent thickness for even cooking.
Rinse
Place the cut fries in a large bowl and rinse under cold water, stirring with your hand, until the water runs clearer. This removes surface starch.
Soak
Submerge the cut potatoes in the bowl with 8 cups of cold water. Add ice if you want the water very cold. Soak for at least 30 minutes and up to 2 hours in the refrigerator. The soak removes excess starch and helps produce crisp fries.
After soaking, drain the potatoes in a colander and spread them on clean kitchen towels or paper towels. Pat thoroughly dry — moisture will cause oil to splatter and prevent crisping.
Fry (two-stage frying)
First fry (blanch)
Pour the oil into a heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer and heat to 325°F (163°C). If you don't have a thermometer, heat until a small piece of potato sizzles gently. Working in batches (do not overcrowd), fry the dried potato sticks 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 them rest for 5-15 minutes.
Second fry (crisp)
Raise the oil temperature to 375°F (190°C). Fry the par-cooked fries in batches for 2-4 minutes, until golden brown and crisp. Stir gently to prevent sticking and to brown evenly. Remove fries with a slotted spoon and drain on a wire rack or paper towels.
While still hot, immediately season the fries with the measured salt and, if using, black pepper. Toss gently to distribute seasoning evenly.
Serve
Serve the fries hot alongside condiments such as ketchup, mayonnaise, or your preferred dipping sauce. For best texture, serve immediately.
Leftover fries can be reheated in a 400°F (200°C) oven on a baking sheet for 5-8 minutes or in an air fryer for a few minutes to regain crispness.