Deep-fried twice to ensure a crispy outside and a fluffy interior.

Simply Recipes / Karishma Pradhan

I’m a sucker for a French fry.

I love a good fry hot off the fryer with a starchy inside and a crispy, salty coating.

Homemade French Fries Served with Ketchup

Simply Recipes / Karishma Pradhan

With a few essential techniques, you, too, can achieve a satisfying and crispy fry at home.

How To Make French Fries at Home

Homemade French fries involve a three-step process.

Why Soak the Potatoes?

Tray of Homemade French Fries Served with a Bowl of Ketchup

Simply Recipes / Karishma Pradhan

Soaking potatoes is critical to achieving a light golden-brown crust on your fries.

Soaking removes excess starch from the potatoes and prevents excess browning.

Otherwise, the exterior of the potato will brown too quickly before the inside cooks.

Closeup of Homemade French Fries Served with a Bowl of Ketchup

Simply Recipes / Karishma Pradhan

Why Fry Twice?

Some recipes involve a single fry (cold oil method).

However, after testing, I found that the double-fry process consistently yields crispier fries.

Homemade French Fries Served with Ketchup with One Fry Dipped in the Ketchup

Simply Recipes / Karishma Pradhan

Both options will yield delicious fries.

And What About the Size of the Fries?

Even cuts are most important.

Sliced Potatoes on Cutting Board with Knife Next to It for Homemade French Fries Recipe

Simply Recipes / Karishma Pradhan

For thickness, anywhere between 1/4-inch and 3/8-inch thick is great.

I prefer 1/4-inches as I find they stay the crispiest.

For sauces, aside from ketchup (obviously!

Uncooked Homemade French Fries on Cutting Board

Simply Recipes / Karishma Pradhan

Enjoy Your French Fries With Burgers, Steaks, and More!

If desired, use a vegetable peeler to peel the potatoes.

I prefer 1/4-inches as I find they stay the crispiest.

Homemade French Fries Soaking in Bowl of Water

Simply Recipes / Karishma Pradhan

To cut by hand, slice the edge off one side of the potato to create a flat surface.

Place the flattened side down, then cut lengthwise into 1/4-inch to 3/8-inch thick slices.

Cut each slice into 1/4-inch to 3/8-inch sticks.

Homemade French Fries on Paper Towels

Simply Recipes / Karishma Pradhan

Place the cut fries into the water, then drain them into a sieve.

Rinse the potatoes under cold water for a few seconds to help remove any excess starch.

Place the fries back into the bowl and fill with cold water until they are fully submerged.

French Fries Frying in Pot of Oil

Simply Recipes / Karishma Pradhan

Add in the white vinegar.

Line two large baking sheets with two layers of paper towels or clean kitchen towels.

Drain the potatoes using a strainer, then transfer them to the baking sheet.

Homemade French Fries on Paper Towels After First Fry

Simply Recipes / Karishma Pradhan

Line a baking sheet with paper towels or a kitchen towel to drain excess grease from fries after frying.

Meanwhile, set a large Dutch oven over medium heat.

Add at least 2 inches of oil to the pot.

Second Fry for Homemade French Fries Recipe in Pot of Oil

Simply Recipes / Karishma Pradhan

Use a thermometer to heat oil to 300F.

In batches, cook the fries for 3 to 5 minutes or until the fries are tender.

You may need to cook them in 2 to 3 batches.

Homemade French Fries Resting on Paper Towels

Simply Recipes / Karishma Pradhan

Repeat with the remaining fries, making sure the oil is at 300F between batches when frying.

Let fries drain on the baking sheet lined with paper towels for at least 30 minutes.

Meanwhile, reheat the oil on medium heat to 375F.

Tray of Homemade French Fries Served with a Bowl of Ketchup

Simply Recipes / Karishma Pradhan

Place 2 teaspoons of salt in a small bowl for easy access.

Line a large baking sheet or plate with paper towels.

Fries should also feel crispy (and not soggy).

Let cool slightly, then taste the fryif it’s still soft, continue frying.

Immediately season with salt, to taste.

Repeat with the remaining batches and serve while hot.

Store leftover French fries wrapped in aluminum foil or an airtight container in the refrigerator.

In the fridge, cooked fries will last up to 3 days.

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