How To Blanch French Fries In Oven

Blanching French Fries in the Oven

French fries are a beloved comfort food for many people. Whether you’re making them from scratch or preparing frozen fries, blanching them before baking can make a big difference in their texture and flavor. Blanching involves partially cooking the fries in hot water or oil before finishing them in the oven. This process helps to achieve a crispy exterior while ensuring that the inside is soft and fluffy. While blanching is traditionally done in oil, you can also achieve excellent results by blanching French fries in the oven. Here’s how to do it:

Step 1: Prepare the Fries

Start by washing and peeling the potatoes if you’re using fresh ones. Then, cut them into even-sized sticks to ensure that they cook evenly. If you’re using frozen fries, you can skip this step and proceed directly to blanching.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure that it’s hot enough to blanch the fries effectively.

Step 3: Blanch the Fries

Place the cut potatoes in a large bowl and cover them with boiling water. Let them soak for about 10-15 minutes to release some of their starch. This will help them achieve a crispier texture when baked. After soaking, drain the water and pat the fries dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.

Step 4: Season the Fries

Transfer the blanched and dried fries to a clean bowl and drizzle them with olive oil. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings, such as paprika or garlic powder. Toss the fries to ensure that they are evenly coated with the seasonings.

Step 5: Bake the Fries

Spread the seasoned fries in a single layer on a baking sheet. Make sure to leave some space between the fries to allow for even cooking. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the fries are golden brown and crispy. Remember to flip the fries halfway through the cooking time to ensure that they cook evenly on all sides.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once the fries are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Then, transfer them to a serving dish and enjoy them with your favorite dipping sauces, such as ketchup, aioli, or barbecue sauce.

Blanching French fries in the oven is a simple yet effective way to achieve the perfect texture and flavor. Whether you’re making them from scratch or using frozen fries, this method can elevate your French fry game to a whole new level. Give it a try and see the difference it makes in your next batch of crispy, delicious fries!