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Chef John’s French Fries (How to Make)

Chef John’s French Fries (How to Make)

Who doesn’t love a plate of crispy, golden French fries? They’re the ultimate comfort food, perfect for pairing with burgers or enjoying on their own. Making French fries at home may seem daunting, but with Chef John’s simple and foolproof method, you’ll be able to achieve that perfect crunch every time. So, let’s dive in and learn how to make Chef John’s French fries!

The Secret to Perfect French Fries

What sets Chef John’s French fries apart from the rest is his two-step cooking process. By first blanching the potatoes and then frying them, he ensures that the fries are fluffy on the inside and crispy on the outside. It’s like a magic trick that results in the most delicious fries you’ve ever tasted!

Step 1: Blanching the Potatoes

Blanching the potatoes may sound fancy, but it’s actually quite simple. Start by cutting the potatoes into even-sized sticks, about 1/4 inch thick. Then, place the potato sticks in a pot of cold water and bring it to a boil. Let them simmer for a few minutes until they’re partially cooked. This step removes excess starch, allowing the fries to become crispier.

Step 2: Frying the Potatoes

Once the potatoes are blanched, it’s time to fry them. Heat a pot of oil to around 325째F (160째C). Carefully lower the partially cooked fries into the hot oil and fry them for a few minutes until they’re pale golden. Remove the fries from the oil and let them cool completely.

Now, here comes the final step to achieve that perfect crunch. Heat the oil to 375째F (190째C) and return the cooled fries to the hot oil. Fry them for a second time until they turn golden brown and crispy. It may seem like a lot of effort, but trust Chef John, it’s worth it!

Tips for Success

Now that you know the secret to Chef John’s perfect French fries, here are a few additional tips to ensure your fries turn out just as amazing:

  • Choose the right potatoes: Russet potatoes are the best choice for making French fries. They have a high starch content, which helps create that fluffy interior.
  • Dry the potatoes: After blanching the potatoes, make sure to dry them thoroughly. Excess moisture can lead to soggy fries.
  • Use a thermometer: Maintaining the right oil temperature is crucial for achieving crispy fries. Invest in a kitchen thermometer to ensure accuracy.
  • Season generously: Don’t forget to season your fries with salt immediately after frying. This will enhance their flavor and make them even more irresistible.

Conclusion

With Chef John’s two-step method and these helpful tips, you’ll be able to make the most delicious French fries right in your own kitchen. So, why settle for store-bought fries when you can enjoy homemade perfection? Get ready to impress your friends and family with your newfound fry-making skills!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different type of potato?

While Russet potatoes are the top choice for French fries, you can experiment with other varieties. Keep in mind that the texture and taste may vary.

2. Can I reuse the frying oil?

Yes, you can reuse the frying oil. Strain it through a fine mesh sieve to remove any debris and store it in a cool, dark place for future frying.

3. Can I bake the fries instead of frying them?

Absolutely! If you prefer a healthier alternative, you can bake the blanched fries in the oven at a high temperature until they’re golden and crispy.

4. How long can I store the fries?

French fries are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat them in the oven to regain their crispiness.

5. What can I serve with the fries?

French fries are incredibly versatile and can be paired with various dips and sauces. Ketchup, mayonnaise, aioli, or even gravy are all delicious options.

6. Can I freeze the blanched potatoes?

Yes, you can freeze the blanched potatoes for future use. Simply blanch them, let them cool, and then freeze in an airtight bag or container. Thaw before frying.

7. Can I use an air fryer for this recipe?

Absolutely! An air fryer is a great alternative to deep frying. Follow the same blanching and frying steps, but adjust the cooking time according to your air fryer’s instructions.

8. Can I add spices or herbs to the fries?

Yes, you can customize your fries with your favorite spices or herbs. Sprinkle them over the fries immediately after frying to ensure the flavors stick.

Chef Johns French Fries How to Make compressed image1

Chef John's French Fries (How to Make)

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Vegetable Dishes
Cuisine American
Servings 2

Ingredients
  

  • 1 large russet potato , sliced into equally-sized strips
  • 2 cups of vegetable oil for frying , or as required
  • A pinch of salt , to your preference

Instructions
 

  • To achieve perfectly crispy and fluffy french fries, follow these easy steps:
  • Begin by placing the sliced potato strips in a bowl of water and let them soak for approximately 30 minutes. This step helps remove starch, resulting in a crispier texture.
  • Pat the soaked potatoes dry using paper towels until they are thoroughly dried.
  • Preheat oil in a deep-fryer or large saucepan to 275 degrees F (135 degrees C).
  • Carefully add the dried potatoes to the hot oil and fry for about 5 minutes, gently stirring and flipping the potatoes occasionally.
  • Use a slotted spoon to transfer the partially cooked potatoes to a plate lined with paper towels. Allow them to cool completely.
  • Heat the oil again, this time to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
  • Return the cooled potatoes to the hot oil and fry for a second time until they turn golden brown, which should take around 5 to 6 minutes.
  • Once the fries are done, remove them from the deep-fryer and use a paper towel to blot any excess oil. Sprinkle with salt to enhance the flavor.
  • Serve and enjoy your delicious homemade french fries!
  • To store the fries, place them in a shallow airtight container and refrigerate for 3-5 days. Make sure the fries are completely cool before refrigerating to avoid sogginess. To reheat, simply use an oven or skillet to maintain their
Keyword Collections, Dish, Dishes, French, Fries, Ingredients, Potato, Potatoes, Recipes, Side, Special, Vegetables
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April

Hi, I am April & Welcome to my food blog!

Thank you for visiting my blog. We share delicious recipes to make your meals nourishing and fun. Experimenting in the kitchen and cooking is my joy!

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