French Fries are a classic and delicious comfort food known for their crispy, golden outside, and addictive taste. They're typically crafted from perfectly sliced potatoes, frying oil, and simple seasoning.
Making homemade French Fries is a great idea. With some straightforward tips, you can achieve the perfect fries that often match the taste of your favorite restaurant or fast-food chain. They serve as an excellent side dish to accompany fried chicken dishes, burgers, sandwiches, or as a snack.
The recipe I'm sharing here provides step-by-step instructions on how to make the best French Fries easily. I've also included a detailed video tutorial to make the cooking process visually clear.
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What are French Fries?
French Fries are a classic snack or side dish known for their irresistibly crispy golden texture. These delicious treats are made from potatoes that are sliced, soaked, fried twice for extra crispiness, and seasoned perfectly. You'll only need basic ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen: russet potatoes, frying oil, and a bit of salt. French Fries are best served hot and fresh, making them a perfect companion to burgers, sandwiches, fried chicken dishes, or simply as a satisfying snack with dipping sauces.
The popularity of French Fries knows no bounds; they have earned a special place in the hearts of people of all ages, from kids to adults. Their universal appeal shines through as you find them in many places, such as restaurants, diners, fast-food chains, and food trucks. However, what sets French Fries apart is their versatility. You can enjoy them as a quick on-the-go snack or as a comforting side dish at a family dinner.
While it's undoubtedly convenient to order them at eateries, making French Fries at home comes with the benefit of customization. You can season them to your liking and control the quality of ingredients used. Plus, with versatile make-ahead and storage options, you can have them whenever the craving strikes. Once you experience the joy of making and savoring them, you'll never look at a potato the same way again.
Ingredients & Substitutions
The ingredients you'll need for making French Fries are basic and you might already have them in your kitchen. Let's see what they are below.
- Russet (Idaho) Potatoes are the ideal choice for making delicious French Fries. Their high starch and low moisture content help to achieve that crispy exterior and fluffy interior. However, you can also use Yukon Gold or Kennebec if that's handy for you
- Oil - When it comes to frying French fries, both canola oil and vegetable oil work exceptionally well. You can use either of these oils, as they have a high smoke point, which means they can handle the high frying temperatures required for perfect fries
- Water - Before frying, it's essential to rinse the potato slices to remove excess starch. Soaking them in water for the suggested time can further help in achieving the desired texture
- Salt - After frying, don't forget to season your French Fries with a sprinkle of salt for that classic and satisfying flavor
For a detailed ingredients list, please check out the recipe card below.
How to Make French Fries at Home?
The recipe I have shared here is for French Fries, a beloved classic in the world of comfort food. They are known for their crispy and golden exterior, complemented by a tender interior. Made from expertly sliced and deep-fried potatoes, these fries are seasoned to perfection, making them one of the best snack or side dish choices.
Below are the high-level instructions for this recipe, but for detailed step-by-step instructions with photos and a video, please see the recipe card below.
Preparing the Potatoes
- Potato Selection: Start by selecting russet also known as Idaho potatoes, as they are well-suited for making crispy French Fries
- Washing and Peeling: Thoroughly wash the selected potatoes under running water to remove any dirt or debris from the skin. After washing, pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel. If you prefer skinless fries, use a peeler or a knife to carefully remove the skin. Alternatively, you can leave the skin on for a different texture and flavor
- Trimming and Slicing: Once the potatoes are cleaned and peeled (if desired), set them on a cutting board. To achieve the perfect fry shape, trim the oval sides and set them aside; these can be used for other dishes like soups, stews, or curries. Focus on the center part of the potato, which is ideal for French Fries. Slice this center part evenly into strips, aiming for a width of about ¼ to ½ inch. You can use a knife for this, ensuring consistent sizing. Alternatively, a French fry cutter can be used for added convenience
- Soaking: Transfer the freshly cut potato strips into a bowl. Wash them thoroughly under running water until the water runs clear. After washing, place the potato strips in a container and add enough water to fully submerge them. Refrigerate this container for a minimum of 1 hour, or for best results, leave them overnight. This soaking process helps remove excess starch, making the fries crispier
- Draining and Drying: After the soaking period, carefully remove the potato strips from the water using a slotted spoon. Place them onto a tray lined with paper towels or a clean cotton towel. Pat them dry gently with additional towels. Now, your potato strips are ready to be fried
Frying and Cooling
- Oil Temperature: In a wide frying pan or pot, pour enough cooking oil to cover the potato strips. Ensure there are at least 2 inches of space at the top of the pot to account for the bubbling that occurs when you add the potatoes. Heat the oil to approximately 350 °F (175 °C)
- Frying in Batches: When the oil reaches the desired temperature, add the potato strips in batches. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can lead to uneven cooking. Fry them for approximately 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even frying
- Removing and Draining: After the mentioned frying time, use a slotted spoon to carefully remove the cooked potatoes from the hot oil. At this stage, they will be cooked but not yet crispy
- Cooling: Transfer the fries to a baking tray lined with paper towels and spread them out evenly. Allow them to cool for about 30 minutes. Alternatively, you can place them in the refrigerator to expedite the cooling process. Cooling helps eliminate excess moisture, which is crucial for achieving crispiness during the second fry
Double Frying and Seasoning
- Heating Oil Again: Heat the cooking oil once more, this time to medium-high heat, approximately 400 °F (204 °C)
- Second Fry: Add the cooled potato strips back into the hot oil in batches. Fry them until they achieve a golden color, indicating they are now perfectly crispy
- Removing and Draining Again: Use a slotted spoon to carefully remove the French Fries from the oil. Place them on a paper towel-lined tray to drain any excess oil
- Seasoning: While the fries are still hot, transfer them to a bowl generously season them with salt, and serve immediately
Tips
- Slice Evenly: When making French Fries, you can choose between using a knife or a French fry cutter. With a knife, aim for slices that are about ¼ to ½ inch wide for consistent sizing and even cooking. This measurement ensures your fries turn out just right, whether you're using a knife or a cutter
- Oil Temperature Control: Use a thermometer to accurately monitor the oil temperature. Maintaining a consistent frying temperature of around 350°F (175°C) throughout the first frying and 400°F (204°C) for the second frying is essential for achieving crispy fries
- Dry the Potatoes Thoroughly: After soaking, pat the potato strips completely dry with paper towels or a clean kitchen cloth. Excess moisture can cause the oil to splatter and make the fries less crispy
- Use a Deep Fryer: If you have a deep fryer, consider using it for frying the potatoes. Deep fryers are designed for even cooking and temperature control, making it easier to achieve consistent results
- Test a Single Fry: Before frying a batch of potatoes, test a single fry to check the oil temperature and adjust it if necessary. This helps ensure that all batches cook evenly
- Drip Dry Before Serving: After the final fry, let the fries drain on a wire rack or paper towel for a minute or two before serving. This helps remove any excess oil and keeps them crispy
- Experiment with Seasonings: While traditional salt is classic, feel free to experiment with different seasonings like cajun, creole, taco, or your favorite spice blends to add extra flavor to your fries
- Serve Promptly: French Fries are at their best when served immediately, so try to time their preparation with the main dish or meal you plan to serve them with
- Safety First: Be cautious when working with hot oil. Use appropriate equipment like a deep fryer or a heavy, deep pot. Keep children and pets away from the cooking area, and use a kitchen thermometer to monitor the oil temperature
Seasonings for French Fries
Salt is undeniably the fundamental seasoning for French Fries, enhancing their natural flavors and adding that classic savory touch. A generous sprinkle of salt while your fries are still hot is a must for most fry enthusiasts. But did you know that you can elevate your fries to a whole new level by exploring a variety of other seasonings? Here are some delightful options to consider:
- Old Bay Seasoning: This classic seafood seasoning combines paprika, celery salt, and black and red pepper for a unique and slightly spicy twist that pairs beautifully with crispy fries
- Lemon Pepper Seasoning: The zesty kick of lemon combined with the bold punch of black pepper offers a bright and tangy flavor profile that can be a refreshing departure from the ordinary
- Barbecue Seasoning: If you're a fan of smoky, sweet, and savory flavors, barbecue seasoning is an excellent choice to infuse your fries with a delicious smokiness
- Taco Seasoning: For those who relish Tex-Mex flavors, taco seasoning delivers a satisfying hint of chili, cumin, and paprika, creating a mildly spicy and savory sensation
- Curry Powder: Experience the exotic and aromatic world of curry powder with its blend of turmeric, coriander, cumin, and more, adding an intriguing depth of flavor to your fries
- Everything Bagel Seasoning: This unique blend featuring poppy seeds, sesame seeds, garlic, and onion flakes provides an irresistible combination of crunchy texture and savory taste, offering a delightful departure from tradition
- Smoked Paprika: Without the spiciness of regular paprika, smoked paprika imparts a smoky and earthy flavor that can be a revelation for your fries
- Cheddar Cheese Powder: For those craving a cheesy indulgence, cheddar cheese powder is the answer, delivering that classic cheesy flavor without the mess of melted cheese
Is it possible to make French Fries ahead of time?
Yes, of course! You can prepare French fries ahead of time by following the process until the initial frying of the potato strips. After removing them from the oil, let them cool on a tray and flash-freeze them for about 30 minutes. Then, store them in freezer-friendly bags in the freezer, where they can stay fresh for up to 2-3 months. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply take out the portion you need and fry them in preheated oil at 400°F until they turn a beautiful golden color.
Storage Suggestions
In the following sections, I've included storage suggestions for both the refrigerator and freezer, all created with your convenience in mind. This way, you have the flexibility to choose the storage method that suits your needs and ensures your French Fries remain fresh and ready for whenever you decide to enjoy them.
Storing Leftover French Fries in the Refrigerator
To store leftover French fries in the refrigerator, start by allowing them to cool completely. Next, place the cooled fries in refrigerator-friendly ziplock bags or an airtight container. Seal the bags or containers tightly to prevent moisture from getting in, and then store the fries in the refrigerator, where they can remain good for up to 2-3 days.
When you're ready to reheat, preheat your oven or air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and heat the fries for approximately 7-10 minutes, or until they turn crispy. Be sure to keep an eye on them during reheating to avoid overcooking.
Freezing French Fries for Long-Term Storage
To freeze French Fries for long-term storage, start by arranging the fries evenly on a tray or baking sheet. Place the tray in the freezer and flash-freeze the fries for about 30-40 minutes; this initial freezing prevents them from sticking together.
Once they're flash-frozen, remove the fries from the tray and transfer them into freezer-friendly bags or airtight containers. Don't forget to label the bags or containers with the date to keep track of freshness. Store the frozen fries in the freezer, where they can be stored for up to 2-3 months.
When you're ready to enjoy them, remove the desired quantity from the freezer, preheat your oven to 370°F (190°C), or follow the air fryer's instructions for frozen fries, and reheat the fries for approximately 10 minutes or until they reach your preferred level of crispiness. Keep a close eye on them during reheating as baking times may vary.
Serving Suggestions
French Fries are a versatile side dish that pairs well with various main courses and condiments. Here are some popular options to serve with it:
- Burgers: French fries and burgers are a classic combination. You can serve them with beef, chicken, turkey, veggie, or even fish burgers. Add your favorite toppings and condiments for a satisfying meal
- Hot Dogs: Whether it's a traditional hot dog or a gourmet sausage, French fries make a great companion to this handheld favorite
- Sandwiches: Almost any sandwich can be elevated with French Fries. Try them with club sandwiches, grilled cheese, or a hearty BLT
- Fried Chicken Dishes: Crispy French Fries go wonderfully with fried chicken, fried chicken wings, chicken nuggets, popcorn chicken, fried chicken tenders, oven-fried chicken tenders, or oven-fried chicken creating a delicious combination of crunchy textures
- Steak: Enjoy steak frites, a classic French dish that pairs a perfectly cooked steak with a side of French Fries
- Fish and Chips: This is a classic British dish featuring battered and fried fish with a side of chips, which are similar to thick-cut fries
- Salads: If you want to balance out your meal, you can serve the fries with a fresh garden salad. It's a great way to add some indulgence to your greens
- Dipping Sauces: These fries are fantastic with various dipping sauces, such as ketchup, mayonnaise, aioli, tzatziki, ranch dressing, honey mustard sauce, remoulade sauce, tartar sauce, buffalo sauce, sweet and sour sauce, garlic butter, cheese sauce, or gravy
- Poutine: Try a Canadian specialty called poutine, which tops French fries with cheese curds and gravy for a hearty and flavorful dish
Related Recipes
You can also find similar recipes below and more at potato recipes and fried food recipes.
French Fries Recipe Video
I have also shared a detailed video of this French Fries recipe below, which I hope will help you create crispy, restaurant-style fries at home. You can also find this recipe in a story format.
📖 Recipe
French Fries
Ingredients
- 5 Russet Potato, or Yukon Gold or Kennebec, medium size
- Canola Oil, or vegetable oil, for frying
- Salt, for seasoning fries
- Water, to soak and rinse potatoes
Instructions
Preparing the Potatoes
- Take russet or Idaho potatoes and thoroughly wash them under running water to remove any dirt or debris. Pat them dry and peel the skin using a peeler or a knife. You can also leave the skin on if you prefer
- Trim the oval sides and set them aside; you can use them for other dishes like soups, stews, or curries. For French Fries, use the center part to achieve the perfect fry shape. Slice the center part evenly into strips measuring ¼ to ½ inch wide as shown in the picture. You can also use the French fry cutter for convenience
- Transfer the potato strips to a bowl and wash them until the water runs clear. Then, soak the potato strips in enough water and refrigerate them for at least 1 hour or overnight. This helps make them crispy. I kept them in the refrigerator overnight
- After soaking, remove the potato strips with a slotted spoon and place them on a tray lined with paper towels or a cotton towel. Pat them dry; now the strips are ready to fry
Frying and Cooling
- In a frying pan or wide pot, pour enough oil to fry the potatoes, leaving at least 2 inches of space at the top for safety because the oil bubbles up when you add the potatoes. Heat the oil to about 350 ℉. Once the oil is heated, add the potato strips in batches without overcrowding the pan. Fry them for about 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally
- After frying for the mentioned time, remove the potatoes using a slotted spoon. At this stage, they won't be crispy but will be cooked
- Transfer the fries to a baking tray lined with paper towels and spread them evenly. Allow them to cool for 30 minutes; you can also refrigerate them. This helps remove excess moisture and makes them crisp up when fried again
Double Frying and Seasoning
- Heat the oil to medium-high heat, around 400 ℉. Add the cooled fries in batches and fry until they turn golden
- Remove the French Fries from the oil using a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel to drain excess oil
- Add the French Fries to a bowl and season them with salt. Now, your crispy homemade French Fries are ready to enjoy
To Serve
- Serve these French Fries as a side dish with fried chicken, chicken wings, chicken tenders, chicken nuggets, popcorn chicken, or burgers for a satisfying meal
Video
Notes
- Slice Evenly: When making French Fries, you can choose between using a knife or a French fry cutter. With a knife, aim for slices that are about ¼ to ½ inch wide for consistent sizing and even cooking. This measurement ensures your fries turn out just right, whether you're using a knife or a cutter
- Oil Temperature Control: Use a thermometer to accurately monitor the oil temperature. Maintaining a consistent frying temperature of around 350°F (175°C) throughout the first frying and 400°F (204°C) for the second frying is essential for achieving crispy fries
- Dry the Potatoes Thoroughly: After soaking, pat the potato strips completely dry with paper towels or a clean kitchen cloth. Excess moisture can cause the oil to splatter and make the fries less crispy
- Use a Deep Fryer: If you have a deep fryer, consider using it for frying the potatoes. Deep fryers are designed for even cooking and temperature control, making it easier to achieve consistent results
- Test a Single Fry: Before frying a batch of potatoes, test a single fry to check the oil temperature and adjust it if necessary. This helps ensure that all batches cook evenly
- Drip Dry Before Serving: After the final fry, let the fries drain on a wire rack or paper towel for a minute or two before serving. This helps remove any excess oil and keeps them crispy
- Experiment with Seasonings: While traditional salt is classic, feel free to experiment with different seasonings like cajun, creole, taco, or your favorite spice blends to add extra flavor to your fries
- Serve Promptly: French Fries are at their best when served immediately, so try to time their preparation with the main dish or meal you plan to serve them with
- Safety First: Be cautious when working with hot oil. Use appropriate equipment like a deep fryer or a heavy, deep pot. Keep children and pets away from the cooking area, and use a kitchen thermometer to monitor the oil temperature
Nutrition
FAQ
No, Russet potatoes are not the only type of potato you can use to make fries. While Russet potatoes are a popular choice due to their starchy texture, you can also make fries with other types of potatoes like Yukon Gold or Kennebec. Each type may give slightly different textures and flavors, so it's a matter of personal preference
Soaking the potatoes before frying helps remove some of the excess starch on the surface. This makes the fries crispier when they're cooked. It's a little trick to get that perfect crunch.
Yes, it's essential to double-fry the potatoes, and it's a common technique to make them extra crispy. Fry the potatoes at medium heat for the first frying and at medium-high heat for the second frying for the best results.
I hope you found the recipe enjoyable and I would appreciate hearing about your experience with it.
If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to leave a comment and I will do my best to respond promptly. Thank you for reading and happy cooking!
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