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remove the fries from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Step 5: Fry Again for Crispiness
Once you’ve finished blanching all the fries, it’s time for the second fry to make them crispy.
- Heat the Oil Again: Bring the oil back up to 375°F (190°C).
- Fry a Second Time: Return the fries to the oil in small batches for an additional 2-3 minutes until they’re golden and crispy. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning.
Step 6: Season and Serve
Once your fries are perfectly crispy, remove them from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any extra oil. Immediately season them with salt, and any additional seasonings or spices you like. Serve hot and enjoy!
Alternative Methods: Baked or Air-Fried French Fries
While deep frying creates that signature crisp, you can also make French fries in the oven or air fryer for a healthier option.
Oven Baked French Fries:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Toss the potato strips in olive oil and your choice of seasonings.
- Spread the fries in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the fries are golden and crispy.
Air Fried French Fries:
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss the potato strips with a small amount of oil and seasonings.
- Place the fries in the air fryer basket in a single layer and cook for 15-20 minutes, shaking halfway through, until crispy.
Tips for the Perfect French Fries
- Choose the Right Potato: Russet potatoes are the best choice for crispy fries, but other starchy potatoes like Idaho or Maris Piper can also work well.
- Double Frying Is Key: The secret to super crispy fries lies in double frying: first, to cook through, then again to achieve golden crispiness.
- Soaking Is Essential: Soaking your cut potatoes in cold water removes excess starch, which helps the fries stay crisp.
- Use Enough Oil: Don’t skimp on the oil! It should be deep enough to completely submerge the fries, ensuring even cooking.
Serving Suggestions
French fries are delicious on their own, but they pair wonderfully with a variety of dips and toppings. Here are some ideas for serving your homemade fries:
- Classic Ketchup: The go-to dip for many, ketchup’s tangy sweetness complements the crispy fries perfectly.
- Garlic Aioli: For a sophisticated twist, serve your fries with homemade garlic aioli for a creamy, flavorful dip.
- Cheese Sauce: Top the fries with melted cheese and enjoy the gooey goodness.
- Vinegar: A traditional favorite in the UK, malt vinegar adds a tangy kick to your fries.
Conclusion
Making perfect French fries at home doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right ingredients, a little patience, and the proper techniques, you can create crispy, golden fries that rival those served at your favorite restaurant. Whether you choose to deep fry, bake, or air fry them, the result will be a satisfying and tasty treat.
So, next time you’re in the mood for fries, skip the takeout and make your own from scratch. They’re sure to be a hit with family and friends!