How to Make Perfect Homemade Fries: A Detailed Recipe and Ideal Dipping Sauces

Fewer things go together like sports and French Fries! When you’re getting ready to watch your favorite team or win your next bet, you will need a snack to keep you satiated! Fortunately, we have an easy recipe for you to follow! Homemade fries are a beloved comfort food that, when done right, can rival even the best restaurant versions. Crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and perfectly seasoned, these fries are the ultimate treat. Here’s a detailed guide on how to make perfect homemade fries, along with recommendations for the best dipping sauces.

Ingredients

• For the Fries:
  • 4 large russet potatoes
  • Cold water
  • 4 cups vegetable oil (for frying)
  • Salt to taste
• For the Dipping Sauces:
  • Classic Ketchup: Store-bought or homemade
  • Garlic Aioli:
    • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
    • 2 cloves garlic, minced
    • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
    • Salt to taste
  • Cheese Sauce:
    • 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
    • 1/2 cup milk
    • 1 tablespoon butter
    • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
    • Salt and pepper to taste

Equipment

• Large bowl
• Deep fryer or large heavy-bottomed pot
• Slotted spoon or spider strainer
• Paper towels
• Baking sheet (optional for oven method)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

1. Wash and Peel: Thoroughly wash and peel the russet potatoes.
2. Cut into Fries: Cut the potatoes into even strips, about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick. Aim for uniform size to ensure even cooking.
3. Soak in Water: Place the cut potatoes in a large bowl of cold water. Soak for at least 30 minutes, or up to several hours. This helps to remove excess starch and achieve crispier fries.

Step 2: Par-Cook the Fries

1. Heat the Oil: In a deep fryer or large heavy-bottomed pot, heat vegetable oil to 325°F (165°C).
2. Blanch the Fries: Drain the soaked potatoes and pat them dry with paper towels. Blanch the fries in the hot oil for about 4-5 minutes, or until they are soft but not browned. Remove them with a slotted spoon and let them drain on paper towels. Allow them to cool completely.

Step 3: Fry the Fries

1. Increase Oil Temperature: Raise the oil temperature to 375°F (190°C).
2. Fry Until Golden: Fry the blanched fries in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per batch.
3. Drain and Season: Remove the fries from the oil and drain on fresh paper towels. Immediately season with salt.

Step 4: Prepare the Dipping Sauces

1. Garlic Aioli:
   • In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Mix well and refrigerate until ready to serve.
2. Cheese Sauce:
   • In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute.
   • Gradually add the milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens.
   • Add the grated cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Keep warm.

Tips for Perfect Fries

• Uniform Size: Cutting the potatoes into uniform sizes ensures even cooking and optimal crispiness.
• Soaking: Soaking the cut potatoes in cold water helps to remove excess starch, leading to crispier fries.
• Double Frying: Blanching the fries first at a lower temperature and then frying them again at a higher temperature creates the perfect texture.
• Seasoning: Season the fries immediately after frying to ensure the salt adheres properly.

Oven Method

If you prefer to bake your fries, follow these steps:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
2. Prepare the Fries: After soaking and drying the fries, toss them in a little vegetable oil and spread them out in a single layer on a baking sheet.
3. Bake and Turn: Bake for 20-25 minutes, turning them halfway through, until golden brown and crispy. Season with salt immediately after removing from the oven.

Making perfect homemade fries is all about the right techniques and quality ingredients. With this detailed recipe, you can enjoy crispy, golden fries that are sure to impress. Pair them with delicious dipping sauces like garlic aioli and cheese sauce for an extra flavor boost. Enjoy your homemade fries hot and fresh, straight from the kitchen! Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or your team for the game, you’ll enjoy this recipe time and time again!