Super Crispy Homemade French Fries

A plate of crispy, golden French Fries is more than just a side dish, but a bite of happiness. Whether you’re planning to serve them alongside a juicy burger or simply devouring them with a side of ketchup, these crispy fries are everything you’ve been craving.

The secret? It’s all in the preparation and technique, not just the potatoes. And you can trust that the crispy crunch you get from the perfect fry is worth every little step. Ready to master the art of fries? Grab some potatoes, oil, and salt, and let’s dive in.

The Crispy Potato Story

French fries, despite their name, are not originally from France! It’s believed that the origins of this beloved snack go back to Belgium, where locals would fry small fish before the potato became a star ingredient in the late 1600s.

The name “French fries” was coined by American soldiers during World War I, who first tasted them in French-speaking Belgium. You will be surprised to know that in Belgium, fries are often served with a side of mayo, not ketchup. Whether you dip them, load them up with cheese, or enjoy them plain, these crispy fries have found their way into hearts and bellies all around the world.

Pro Tips for The Best Crispy French Fries

• Soaking the cut fries in water helps remove excess starch, making them crispier when fried.
• Moisture equals soggy fries, so make sure to dry them well after soaking.
• Fry in batches to avoid soggy fries; overcrowding the pan lowers the oil temperature.
• Let fries rest on paper towels after frying to get rid of any excess oil.
• Season your fries as soon as they’re out of the fryer for the best flavor absorption.
• Make sure your fries are cut into uniform strips to ensure they cook evenly.

Can I Use Any Type of Potato for French Fries?  

It’s best to go with starchy potatoes like Russets or Maris Pipers. These types produce the fluffiest interior and crispiest exterior. Waxy potatoes tend to retain more moisture, which results in soggy fries.

Why Should I Soak Potatoes Before Frying?  

Soaking potatoes in water for at least an hour helps to remove excess starch, which is key to achieving that crispy texture we all love. It also prevents the fries from sticking together during frying.

Is There a Secret to Seasoning Fries?  

Yes! Salt is crucial, but don’t forget to season them immediately after frying while they’re still hot, so the seasoning sticks better. If you’re feeling fancy, try garlic powder or paprika for an extra punch of flavor.

How Do I Know If the Oil is Hot Enough?  

A good way to test the oil temperature is to drop a small piece of potato into the oil. If it bubbles and rises to the surface, the oil is ready. Alternatively, use a thermometer for precise results.

How Do I Keep French Fries Crispy After Frying?  

To keep fries crispy, avoid covering them immediately after frying, as this will trap steam and make them soggy. Instead, place them on a cooling rack or paper towels.

Can I Add Flavors to My French Fries?  

You can add different herbs and spices to your fries after frying. Try rosemary, garlic, or even truffle oil for a gourmet touch.

Can You Make Deep-Fried French Fries Ahead of Time?

Homemade French fries taste the best when they're served fresh out of the deep fryer. However, you can make French fries ahead of time and reheat them.

Can I Air Fry This Recipe?

Yes, you can make these french fries in an air fryer! Start by peeling and cutting the potatoes into strips, then soak them in water for an hour and dry them well with a towel to help them crisp up. Toss the strips with a light coating of oil to ensure even cooking. Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (356°F) and spread the potatoes in a single layer in the basket, working in batches if needed. Cook for 15–20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. Once they’re golden and crispy, season with salt and enjoy your healthier, delicious fries!

How to Store Homemade French Fries

Once they've cooled down, keep leftover fries in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Can You Freeze French Fries?

You can definitely freeze fries. Place them in a freezer-safe bag them bake them for 15 to 20 minutes when you're ready to reheat them.

How to Reheat Homemade French Fries

To reheat your French fries so they're crispy, bake them for 15 to 20 minutes at 350F, flipping once halfway through. Make sure the oven is properly hot before reheating the fries – this will make them crisp back up.

How to Make Perfect French Fries

Peel the potatoes and cut them into evenly sized strips. Place the cut potato strips in a bowl of water and let them soak for about 1 hour. This removes excess starch and gives you that crispy finish.

After soaking, transfer the potatoes to a towel and dry them thoroughly. The drier they are, the crispier they’ll get.

Heat oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Carefully add the potato strips and fry until golden brown and crispy.

Remove the fries from the oil and place them on a paper towel to drain excess oil.

Transfer them to a serving dish, sprinkle with salt, and serve immediately. And there you have it, perfectly crispy French fries.