Step 1: Prep the Potatoes
- Peel and Slice: Peel the potatoes (optional) and slice them into even sticks, about 1/4-inch thick. Try to keep them consistent for even cooking.
- Soak in Ice Water: Place the sliced potatoes in a bowl of cold water with the ice cubes. Let them soak for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours to remove excess starch, which helps them crisp up.
Step 2: Parboil the Potatoes
- Boil Water: Bring a pot of water to a boil and add a pinch of salt.
- Cook the Potatoes: Add the drained, soaked potatoes to the boiling water and parboil for about 3-4 minutes. You want them to be tender but not falling apart. This step helps cook the inside while allowing the outside to crisp up.
- Drain and Cool: Carefully drain the potatoes and lay them out on a kitchen towel or paper towels to dry completely.
Step 3: First Fry (Blanching)
- Heat Oil: In a large pot or deep fryer, heat oil to 300°F (150°C).
- First Fry: Fry the potatoes in small batches for about 4-5 minutes each until they are just starting to firm up but haven’t turned golden yet. Remove them with a slotted spoon and place them on paper towels to drain.
- Cool the Fries: Allow the fries to cool for at least 15 minutes. You can also refrigerate them for extra crispiness.
Step 4: Second Fry (Crisping)
- Heat Oil Again: Increase the oil temperature to 375°F (190°C).
- Crisp Up: Fry the potatoes again in small batches, this time for 2-4 minutes or until they’re golden brown and crispy.
- Drain and Salt: Remove the fries with a slotted spoon, place them on fresh paper towels, and immediately season with salt while they’re still hot.
Step 5: Serve
Serve your crispy French fries right away with your favorite dipping sauces like ketchup, garlic aioli, or cheese sauce!
Tips for Success
- Soaking Step: Don’t skip soaking the potatoes in ice water; it’s key to crispy fries!
- Double Frying: The first fry cooks the inside, and the second fry crisps the outside.
- Drain Excess Oil: Pat the fries with paper towels after each fry to remove extra oil.
Conclusion
With these tips, your French fries will have that restaurant-quality crispiness and flavor. They’re perfect as a side dish or just as an addictive snack! Enjoy!