How to Make the Best Homemade Seasoned French Fries

There’s nothing quite like the perfect French fry: crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and seasoned just right. While the quest for the ideal fry might seem daunting, making delicious, restaurant-quality seasoned French fries at home is entirely achievable. Here’s your guide to creating the best homemade seasoned French fries.

Ingredients

• Potatoes: Russet potatoes are the gold standard for French fries due to their high starch content and low moisture, which helps achieve that coveted crispiness.
• Oil: Choose a high smoke point oil like canola, vegetable, or peanut oil for frying.
• Seasonings:
  • Salt (sea salt or kosher salt works well)
  • Black pepper
  • Optional: garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, or Cajun seasoning for extra flavor.

Equipment

• A deep fryer or a heavy, deep pot
• A thermometer, if not using a deep fryer with a built-in thermostat
• A mandoline slicer or sharp knife
• Paper towels or a clean kitchen towel
• A slotted spoon or spider strainer

Preparation Steps

1. Cut the Potatoes:

   • Wash and peel the potatoes. For skin-on fries, simply scrub the potatoes clean.
   • Cut the potatoes into even sticks, about ¼ to ½ inch thick. Consistency in size ensures even cooking.

2. Soak the Potatoes:

   • Soak the potato sticks in a bowl of cold water for at least 30 minutes, or overnight if possible. This step removes excess starch, which helps in achieving crispier fries.

3. Dry the Potatoes:

   • After soaking, thoroughly dry the potatoes with paper towels or a clean kitchen towel. Removing moisture is key to getting a good fry.

4. Heat the Oil:

   • Heat the oil in your fryer or pot to about 375°F (190°C). Use a thermometer to ensure the temperature is correct to avoid soggy fries.

5. Fry in Batches:

   • Fry the potatoes in small batches to avoid dropping the temperature of the oil. Cook each batch until the fries are soft but not colored, about 5-7 minutes.
   • Remove the fries using a slotted spoon and drain them on a rack or paper towels. Let them cool for a few minutes.

6. Double Fry for Crispiness:

   • Increase the oil temperature to 425°F (218°C). Return the fries to the oil in batches, frying until they are golden and crispy, about 3-5 minutes.
   • Remove and drain on fresh paper towels.

7. Season While Hot:

   • Immediately season the fries with salt and your choice of additional spices while they are still hot. This helps the seasonings adhere better.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your homemade seasoned French fries with classic ketchup, mayo, or a gourmet dip like garlic aioli or truffle mayo. They’re perfect as a side dish or as a snack during game days and gatherings.

Tips for Perfect French Fries

• Avoid overcrowding: Keep the oil temperature consistent by frying in small batches.
• Safety first: Keep a lid nearby when frying to extinguish any potential oil fires.
• Experiment with flavors: Don’t be afraid to mix different seasonings to find your favorite combination.

Conclusion

Homemade seasoned French fries are a simple yet satisfying dish that can be mastered with a little practice and patience. By following these steps, you’ll be able to serve up fries that could rival any restaurant's, delighting your family and guests with their perfect crunch and flavor.