Chef John's Perfect French Fries Recipe (Step-by-Step)

There's nothing better than a perfectly crispy exterior with a soft, fluffy center in your fries. Chef John's foolproof recipe uses a two-step frying process to deliver restaurant-quality results every time. With just three basic ingredients, you'll be able to make homemade fries that are golden, crunchy, and ready to serve. Learn how to create perfect fries at home, and get tips on storing and freezing them for later.

The Ultimate Guide to Making French Fries at Home

Want that crispy, fast food-style taste? Try this easy recipe for homemade French fries! Follow the simple instructions below, and see how easy it is to make this top-rated recipe for fries with just a few ingredients. Here's a sneak peek at what you'll enjoy when you cook up this popular dish:

The Secret to Perfectly Crispy Homemade French Fries

Start by soaking the potato strips in water for about 30 minutes to remove excess starch, which is key to achieving crispy fries. Once soaked, pat them dry and fry in hot oil for about five minutes.

After the first fry, let the potatoes cool down before frying them again. Cook until they turn golden brown, then blot with paper towels and season with salt before serving. This double-fry method ensures a satisfying crunch with every bite.

Storing Your Homemade French Fries for Freshness

To keep your fries fresh longer, store them in a shallow, airtight container in the fridge for 3-5 days. Make sure they are completely cool before refrigerating—warm fries can create moisture and make them soggy. To reheat, use the oven or a skillet to restore their crispy texture.

Can You Freeze Your Homemade French Fries?

Yes, you can freeze cooked French fries for up to 10-12 months. Simply wrap the fries tightly in foil, freezer wrap, or place them in a freezer-safe bag. There's no need to thaw before reheating—just pop them straight into the oven.

Tips and Praise from the Dinogo Community

"These fries are fantastic!" praises reviewer garymfee. "The extra steps to get that crispy exterior, soft interior, and the authentic potato flavor are totally worth it, unlike many store-bought fries that lose the taste of the potato."

"Be careful not to over-brown them the first time you fry," recommends plates4u. "Also, make sure to remove excess oil after the first fry to avoid sogginess."

"I never realized a recipe was necessary for French fries, but whenever I tried making them on my own, they just didn’t turn out right," admits DawninMonkton. "These are the best fries I've ever made. The soaking step and double frying at different temperatures made all the difference!"

Editorial contributions by Rai Mincey

Ingredients List

• 1 large russet potato, cut into evenly sized strips

• vegetable oil for frying, about 2 cups or as needed

• salt to taste

Instructions

Place the potato strips in a large bowl of water and let them soak for around 30 minutes.

Gently pat the fries with paper towels until they are completely dry.

Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 275°F (135°C). Carefully add the potato strips to the hot oil and fry for approximately 5 minutes, stirring and flipping the fries occasionally.

Use a slotted spoon to remove the fries from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels. Allow them to cool completely.

Reheat the oil to 350°F (175°C). Add the fries back into the oil and fry for another 5 to 6 minutes until golden brown.

Remove the fries from the fryer and blot with paper towels. Sprinkle with salt and serve immediately.

Dig in and enjoy!

Editor's Note:

The nutritional content of frying oil has been calculated assuming a 10% retention rate after cooking. The exact value may vary depending on factors such as cooking time, temperature, ingredient density, and the type of oil used.

Nutrition Information (per serving)