Want to enjoy your french fries in the best way possible? Achieve that perfect crunch and golden color with these suggestions. Here’s how to do it.
1. Pick the right type of potato
Not all potatoes are the same when it comes to making fries. We recommend you choose russet potatoes, which come with high levels of starch and low moisture content. This is what creates a crispy crust when potatoes are fried, keeping the fluffy inside soft and tender, as it should be.
2. Soak, rinse, and dry
To achieve crispy fries, you need to remove the excess of starch. For this, after cutting your potatoes into even strips, quickly soak them in cold water and rinse them until the water is clear. This is to avoid your fries turning brown too quickly. Then, dry the potatoes using paper towels to get rid of any moisture that could make the oil splatter or prevent the fries from crisping. Each potato must be completely dry to make sure the oil fries evenly, resulting in a perfect crunch.
3. Select a high-quality oil for frying
If you made french fries before, you know the type of oil you use plays a huge role in how your fries turn out. We suggest you choose an oil with a high smoke point, like canola oil. This is a great option because it has a neutral flavor and will fry your potatoes to a beautiful golden brown without leaving your fries greasy. Canola oil also has a lower saturated fat content, which makes it a slightly healthier choice compared to other oils.
4. Double fry for perfection
This method is the ultimate trick for achieving the perfect french fries. Start by frying your potato strips at a lower temperature (250°F to 275°F) for a few minutes. This first step prepares the potatoes for a crispy finish. Then, let the fries cool completely before moving on to the second round of frying.
Once they’ve cooled, fry the potatoes again at a higher temperature (around 350°F) for about 3-4 minutes until they’re golden and crispy. This second process will seal in the moisture and create a crunchy exterior, providing your fries with the perfect texture. Finally, drain them on paper towels to absorb excess oil, season them however you like, and enjoy the best fries you’ve ever made.
By following these simple and proven techniques, you can be sure you’ll master the art of making golden, crispy, and tasty french fries at home. Remember to select the right potatoes and oil, soak and rinse them before frying, and try the double-fry method for the most excellent results.