Unlock the secret to perfect crispy fries at home
Fries are an excellent addition to many dishes. While their preparation seems simple, mistakes made during frying can result in rubbery fries. What can you do to make them golden and crispy? Try this method.
Fries have always been immensely popular, not only as a side dish but also as a standalone snack. Although making them may seem straightforward, achieving perfect crispiness often proves challenging. However, using a few proven techniques, you can easily achieve results similar to those from the best restaurants in a home kitchen.
The key to perfect fries is the right approach at each step. Every phase, from selecting the potatoes to frying techniques and seasoning, affects the final outcome. Learn how to prepare crispy fries instead of rubbery ones.
How to make crispy fries? Ingredients
To achieve really crispy fries, it's not enough to simply toss potatoes into hot oil. You will need: potatoes, salt, potato starch, and oil for frying.
It's best to choose starchy potato varieties, like type C, which become crispier when fried. Start by peeling the potatoes and cutting them into even strips. The thickness of the fries is important as it affects the frying time.
Next, soak the cut potatoes in a mixture of water with a bit of sugar or vinegar for about 30 minutes. The sugar helps remove excess starch, making the fries crispier. After soaking, dry the potatoes thoroughly. Then coat the raw potatoes in potato starch, shaking off the excess. Potato starch creates a delicate, golden crust on the fries, preventing them from absorbing too much oil during frying.
Instead of soaking in water, you can soak the potatoes in Coca-Cola for 10 minutes. Then, like with water, dry the potatoes thoroughly, coat them in flour, and fry.
How to fry fries to make them crispy?
Frying fries might seem simple, but it requires attention if you want them to be crispy. It is crucial to control the oil temperature, which should be between 340 and 355 degrees Fahrenheit. If the oil temperature is too low, the fries will cook slowly and absorb fat, making them rubbery.
Fry fries in batches. Adding too many potatoes at once to the hot oil can lower the temperature, affecting the frying process. After frying, let the fries drain on a paper towel to remove excess oil.
What to serve with fries?
Fries are a universally appealing dish that pairs well with a variety of sides. They are often served with classic sauces such as ketchup, mayonnaise, or mustard, which enhance their flavor.
For those who enjoy intense flavors, spicy chili sauces or aioli add some heat and are an ideal choice. A popular variation is to sprinkle fries with finely grated cheese for an additional creamy texture. Optionally, fresh herbs such as rosemary or parsley can impart a wonderful aroma to the fries.
