Perfect Crispy French Fries Recipe 🍟
Who doesn’t love a basket of golden, crispy French fries? Whether served as a side with burgers, steak, or simply enjoyed on their own with ketchup, French fries are a universal comfort food. While making fries at home can sometimes lead to soggy or limp results, this recipe unlocks the secrets to getting them perfectly crispy every time. 🥔✨
As Chef Gordon Ramsay says: “A proper fry should be golden on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and seasoned to perfection.” Let’s make fries that rival your favorite restaurant right in your own kitchen!
🧂 Ingredients
Potatoes (preferably starchy like Russet or Idaho)
Cold water (enough to cover potatoes)
2 tablespoons white vinegar
1 heaping tablespoon cornstarch
Oil for frying (vegetable, canola, or peanut oil)
Salt, to taste
🔪 Preparation Steps
Step 1: Cut the Potatoes
Peel (optional) and cut potatoes into even sticks about ¼-inch thick for classic fries. Uniform size ensures even cooking.
Step 2: Soak in Cold Water
Place the potato sticks in a large bowl of cold water with 2 tablespoons of vinegar. Let soak for 1–2 hours (or overnight) to remove excess starch and help fries crisp up when fried.
Step 3: Dry the Potatoes
Drain and pat the potatoes dry thoroughly with a clean towel. Moisture is the enemy of crispiness!
Step 4: Coat with Cornstarch
Toss the dry potato sticks with 1 heaping tablespoon of cornstarch. This creates an extra crispy outer layer when fried.
Step 5: First Fry (Blanching)
Heat oil to 325°F (165°C). Fry the potatoes in small batches for 3–4 minutes until softened but not browned. Remove and let drain on paper towels.
Step 6: Second Fry (Crisping)
Increase oil temperature to 375°F (190°C). Fry the blanched potatoes again until golden brown and crispy (about 2–3 minutes). Drain on paper towels.
Step 7: Season & Serve
Immediately season with salt (or your favorite seasoning blend). Serve hot with ketchup, aioli, or dipping sauce of choice. 🍔🍟
Chef’s Expert Tips
Chef Ina Garten: “Don’t overcrowd the pan—fry in small batches for the best results.”
Chef Bobby Flay: “Try tossing your fries with garlic and Parmesan for a restaurant-style upgrade.”
Chef Ree Drummond: “If you prefer baked fries, spread them in a single layer, spray with oil, and bake at 425°F until crisp.”
Health & Safety Considerations
⚠️ Always monitor hot oil carefully to avoid accidents.
⚠️ Use a thermometer for precise frying temperatures.
⚠️ Store leftover fries in the fridge and reheat in an oven or air fryer for best texture.
