There are few snacks that are more universally loved than fries. Whether you’re at a fast food restaurant or a fancy restaurant, fries are a staple side dish that can be enjoyed by anyone. The best part about fries is that they’re actually quite easy to make at home. In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps of how to make fries, including a few tips and tricks to make sure they turn out crispy and delicious every time.
Ingredients
– Potatoes (russet or Yukon gold work well)
– Salt
– Oil for frying (canola or vegetable oil work well)
Instructions
Step 1: Rinse and Cut the Potatoes
The first step in making fries is to wash and peel your potatoes. Once the potatoes are washed and peeled, cut them lengthwise into thin strips. Ideally, you want your fries to be about 1/4 inch thick, but you can make them thicker or thinner depending on your personal preference.
Step 2: Soak the Potatoes
Once the potatoes are cut, place them in a bowl of cold water and let them soak for about 30 minutes. Soaking the potatoes helps to remove excess starch, which will help them to turn out crispy when fried.
Step 3: Preheat the Oil
While the potatoes are soaking, preheat your oil in a deep fryer or large pot. You’ll want enough oil to fully cover the fries when they’re added to the pot. Set the temperature to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
Step 4: Dry the Potatoes
After the potatoes have soaked for 30 minutes, remove them from the water and pat them dry with a clean towel. It’s important that the potatoes are as dry as possible before frying to avoid any excess moisture that can cause the oil to splatter.
Step 5: Fry the Potatoes
Carefully add the dried potatoes to the hot oil and fry for 5-7 minutes or until they are golden brown. You may need to do this in batches to avoid overcrowding the pot. Once the fries are done, use a slotted spoon to remove them from the oil and place them on a paper towel to drain any excess oil.
Step 6: Season the Fries
While the fries are still hot, sprinkle them with salt to taste. You can also add other seasonings like garlic or paprika if you want to mix things up.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
Fries are best served hot and fresh out of the fryer. You can pair them with your favorite dipping sauces, or enjoy them on their own. Whatever your preference, these homemade fries are sure to be a hit!
Tips and Tricks
– Use a mandoline slicer to ensure even cuts for your fries.
– Make sure your oil is hot enough before adding the potatoes to avoid soggy fries.
– Lightly dust your fries in cornstarch before frying to help them turn out even crispier.
– Experiment with different seasonings to find your perfect flavor combination.
FAQs
Q: Can I use sweet potatoes to make fries?
A: Absolutely! Sweet potato fries are a delicious alternative to regular fries and can be prepared in the same way.
Q: What oil is best for frying fries?
A: Canola oil or vegetable oil are both good options for frying fries. You can also use peanut oil for added flavor.
Q: Can I bake my fries instead of frying them?
A: Yes, you can bake your fries in the oven instead of frying them. Simply preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit, line a baking sheet with parchment paper, and spread your fries out in a single layer. Bake for about 25 minutes, flipping once, until they’re golden brown and crispy.
Q: How do I store leftover fries?
A: Leftover fries can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and heat in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 10-15 minutes or until they’re heated through.
In conclusion, making your own fries at home is a fun and easy way to satisfy your cravings without having to leave the house. With a little practice and some seasoning experimentation, you’re sure to perfect your homemade fries in no time!
