A plate of golden, crispy French fries is often hard to beat, whether served as a side dish, a snack or the star of the meal, fries are universally loved. Their crisp exterior, fluffy interior, and irresistible salty flavour make them a classic that never goes out of style.
What makes French fries so fantastic? It’s all about achieving the perfect balance between crunch and fluffiness. Properly cooked fries have a satisfying bite on the outside while remaining light and soft inside. The key lies in the right type of potato, the perfect cut, and careful cooking. Traditional French fries are deep-fried, but modern methods, including air-frying and oven-baking, offer healthier alternatives while keeping that beloved texture.
Another secret to excellent fries is seasoning. While classic salt is always a winner, you can elevate your fries with various seasonings like smoked paprika, garlic powder or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. A dash of truffle oil or a mix of herbs can also take them to another level.
French fries are endlessly versatile and pair beautifully with a range of dishes. Here are some delicious ways to enjoy them:
1. Classic Pairings:
Burgers: Whether it’s a juicy beef burger, a crispy chicken sandwich, or a plant-based option, fries are the ultimate sidekick.
Steak: A plate of crispy fries alongside a tender steak and a rich sauce is a match made in heaven.
Fish & Chips: A British classic, pairing fries with battered fish and a side of tartar sauce is always a winner.
2. Dipping Delights:
Ketchup and Mayo: The simple yet satisfying duo that never fails.
Garlic Aioli: A creamy, garlicky dip that adds a burst of flavour.
Cheese Sauce: Pour warm, melted cheese over fries for a deliciously indulgent treat.
Spicy Sriracha Mayo: A spicy kick for those who like a bit of heat.
3. Loaded Fries:
Chilli Cheese Fries: Topped with hearty beef chilli and melted cheese.
Poutine: A Canadian favourite, featuring cheese curds and gravy.
Bacon & Ranch: Crispy bacon pieces with a drizzle of ranch dressing for extra indulgence.
A Timeless Favourite
Whether enjoyed at a restaurant, made at home or picked up from a street vendor, they are a universally loved treat that you can make from the comfort of your own home. With endless ways to season, dip, and serve them, fantastic French fries remain one of the most popular comfort foods around the world. So, the next time you crave something crispy, golden, and delicious, grab a plate of fantastic French fries and enjoy every bite!
Fantastic French Fries
Ingredients
- 4 large russet potatoes
- 1 litre vegetable oil for frying
- 1 tsp salt or to taste
- 1 tsp smoked paprika optional
- 1 tsp garlic powder optional
Instructions
- Wash, peel (if desired), and cut the potatoes into evenly sized fries, about 1/4-inch thick.4 large russet potatoes
- Place the cut potatoes in a bowl of cold water and let them soak for at least 30 minutes. This helps remove excess starch for a crispier texture.
- Drain the potatoes and pat them completely dry with a clean towel.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a deep fryer or a large pot to 175°C (350°F).1 litre vegetable oil
- Fry the potatoes in batches for about 3-4 minutes, just until they start to soften but not brown. Remove and drain on a paper towel.
- Let the fries rest for 5 minutes to allow them to firm up.
- Increase the oil temperature to 190°C (375°F) and fry the potatoes again for another 3-4 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from oil, drain on paper towels, and immediately season with salt, smoked paprika, or garlic powder.1 tsp salt, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1 tsp garlic powder
- Enjoy your Fantastic French Fries fresh with your favourite dipping sauces.
12 comments
Never popping to the chippy again. These are far better.
I never thought homemade fries could be this good. They were so crunchy and flavourful.
The smoked paprika adds a wonderful touch of flavour.
The garlic powder seasoning took them to the next level and beyond.
These were fantastic! I followed the recipe exactly, and they came out perfect.
The double frying method really makes a difference.
Loved this recipe! Soaking the potatoes made such a difference. They were super crispy and paired perfectly with ketchup and aioli.
Delicious and easy to make! I soaked the potatoes as recommended, and it really helped with the crispiness.
Best fries I’ve ever made at home! I used an air fryer instead of deep frying, and they were still crispy and delicious.
Tried these fries with a homemade cheese sauce, and they were divine
I’ve tried making fries at home before, but these are by far the best. They had the perfect balance of crunch and softness inside.
These fries turned out so crispy and golden, just like the ones from my favourite restaurant.