How To Cut Potatoes Like Fries

How To Cut Potatoes Like Fries

Have you ever wondered how to achieve that perfect, restaurant-style cut for your homemade fries? We’ve got you covered! With a few simple steps, you can master the art of cutting potatoes like fries and elevate your cooking game. Follow this guide to create fries that are crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside.

Step 1: Choose the Right Potato Variety

Not all potatoes are created equal when it comes to making fries. Opt for starchy potatoes like Russet or Idaho, as they have a high starch content that helps create that desirable texture. Avoid waxy potatoes, as they tend to become soggy when fried.

Step 2: Gather Your Tools

Before you start, make sure you have the right tools at hand. You will need a sharp chef’s knife, a cutting board, and a sturdy vegetable peeler (optional). Ensuring your tools are sharp will make the cutting process smoother and reduce the risk of any accidents.

Step 3: Prepare the Potatoes

Start by washing the potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris. If desired, peel the potatoes using a vegetable peeler. Although leaving the skin on adds extra flavor and texture, it’s a matter of personal preference. Once peeled, pat the potatoes dry with a kitchen towel.

Step 4: Shape and Size

Now it’s time to transform your potatoes into those classic fry shapes. With a sharp knife, slice off a small portion of one side to create a flat surface. This will provide stability and prevent the potato from rolling while you cut. Then, cut the potato lengthwise into ½ inch thick slabs.

Next, stack a few slabs on top of each other and carefully slice them lengthwise into ½ inch thick sticks. Remember to maintain a consistent size for even cooking. Repeat this process until all the potatoes are cut into fries.

Step 5: Rinse and Dry

After cutting the potatoes, rinse them under cold water to remove excess starch. This will help prevent them from sticking together during frying. Once rinsed, pat the fries dry with a kitchen towel or paper towels. Removing excess moisture will ensure the fries become crispy when cooked.

Step 6: Preparing for Cooking

At this point, you can proceed directly to frying the fries, or you can take an extra step to enhance their texture. Blanching the fries in hot oil before frying allows them to develop a golden-brown exterior while maintaining a soft interior.

To blanch the fries, heat oil to around 325°F (163°C) in a deep fryer or a large pot. Carefully lower a small batch of cut potatoes into the oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. Cook for about 5 minutes or until the fries are just starting to turn golden. Remove the fries from the oil and let them cool on a wire rack. This step can be done in advance and the fries can be stored in the refrigerator until you’re ready to finish frying.

Step 7: Frying the Perfect Fries

For the final cooking step, heat the oil to 375°F (190°C). Once the oil reaches the desired temperature, gently lower a small batch of blanched fries into the oil using a slotted spoon or a frying basket. Fry for approximately 2-3 minutes or until the fries turn golden brown and crispy.

Once cooked, remove the fries from the oil, allowing any excess oil to drain off. Transfer them onto a paper towel-lined plate to remove any remaining oil. Season with salt or your favorite seasoning while they are still hot.

Step 8: Enjoy Your Homemade Fries

Now that you know how to cut potatoes like fries and fry them to perfection, it’s time to indulge in your delicious creation! Serve the fries alongside your favorite dipping sauces or as a side dish to burgers, sandwiches, or other main courses.

With these simple steps, you can master the art of cutting potatoes like fries and create irresistible homemade fries that will rival any restaurant. So, grab those potatoes and get ready to enjoy crispy, golden, and oh-so-delicious fries right at home!