Homemade French Fries
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Homemade French Fries
Description
Homemade French Fries is a recipe centered on preparing cut russet potatoes by soaking them in cold water to remove excess starch, then drying thoroughly to prevent oil spatter. The fries are cooked in vegetable or peanut oil using a two-step frying method: first at a lower temperature to cook the potatoes until tender, and then at a higher temperature to crisp the outside and develop a golden color. Seasoning with salt and pepper enhances the flavor, and the optional parsley adds freshness and color.
The texture balances a tender inside with a crisp, slightly browned outside, achieved through the dual frying stages. The recipe notes emphasize the importance of uniform cutting for even cooking and using a thermometer to maintain correct oil temperature for safety and quality.
These fries work well as a side to many meals or as a snack. Adding chopped parsley at the end can provide a herbaceous touch. Serving immediately preserves the crisp texture. Observing drying and frying steps carefully results in fries with good texture and flavor.
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 pounds russet potato
- cooking oil I use vegetable or peanut oil, for frying
- salt to taste
- black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon parsley optional, chopped
Instructions
- Cut the potatoes into matchsticks, either with a knife or with a french fry cutter. The potato pieces should all be similar in size.
- Place the potatoes in a bowl of cold water. Soak the potatoes for at least 30 minutes.
- Drain the water from the potatoes. Place the potatoes on a layer of paper towels and pat thoroughly with additional towels until dry.
- Pour 3 inches of oil into a large, deep pot. Heat the oil to 300 degrees F.
- Place about 1/3 of the potatoes in the pot, and cook until tender. This takes about 4-5 minutes. Repeat the process with the remaining potatoes.
- Increase the heat of the oil to 400 degrees F. Place 1/3 of the potatoes back in the pot and cook for an additional 1-3 minutes or until golden brown. Repeat the process with the remaining potatoes. Place the cooked potatoes on a sheet pan lined with paper towels.
- Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste over the fries. Add parsley if desired, then serve immediately.
Notes
- Peeling the potatoes is optional; leaving the peel adds color and texture.
- Use a frying thermometer to maintain proper oil temperatures and ensure safe frying.
- Cut potatoes into similar-sized pieces to guarantee even cooking.
- Dry potatoes thoroughly after soaking to prevent oil spatter during frying.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 4Serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 224 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 224kcal | 11% |
| Carbohydrates | 51g | 17% |
| Protein | 6g | 12% |
| Fat | 14g | 22% |
| Saturated Fat | 6g | 30% |
| Sodium | 14mg | 1% |
| Potassium | 1182mg | 25% |
| Fiber | 4g | 16% |
| Sugar | 2g | 4% |
| Vitamin C | 16mg | 18% |
| Calcium | 37mg | 4% |
| Iron | 2mg | 11% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.