Chef John's French Fries (How to Make)

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Learn how to make French fries that are super crispy with this twice-fried method. I don't think most people realize that any decent French fry needs to be fried twice. The first frying is done at a lower temperature, which softens the potato and prepares the starchy surface for the second frying's crispification.

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close up view of french fries on a plate with a ramekin of ketchup
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There's nothing quite like the enticingly crisp skin and fluffy interior of a french fry. Chef John's easy-to-follow recipe features a double-fried method that gets delicious, restaurant-style results every time. With just three ingredients, you'll have sizzling hot, homemade french fries that are ready to share. Learn the secrets to perfectly golden fries at home, plus, get tips on storing and freezing.

How to Make Homemade French Fries

Craving crispy, drive-thru style flavor? You'll love this simple recipe for homemade french fries. You'll find the full recipe below with step-by-step instructions, but here's what you can expect when you make this top-rated recipe:

The Key to Crispy Homemade French Fries

Begin by soaking the sliced potato strips in a bowl of water for about 30 minutes to draw out the starch — this ensures the most deliciously crispy results. Pat potatoes dry, then add them to a pot of preheated oil and fry for five minutes.

Allow the potatoes to cool before frying them a second time. Let cook until golden brown, then blot with a paper towel and salt before serving. Double-frying guarantees a wonderful crunch that will keep you coming back for more.

How to Store Homemade French Fries

Give french fries a longer shelf by placing them in a shallow airtight container and refrigerating for 3-5 days. Allow them to fully cool before chilling — warm fries will create steam in the container and make for soggy strips. Reheat in the oven or in a skillet to maintain a fresh, crispy flavor.

Can You Freeze Homemade French Fries?

Yes, cooked french fries can be safely frozen for 10-12 months. Be sure to wrap leftovers securely in foil, freezer wrap, or a freezer-safe bag. No need to thaw — simply place frozen fries in the oven to reheat.

Allrecipes Community Tips and Praise

"The fries taste amazing," raves reviewer garymfee. "It is well worth the steps to get the crispy outside, perfect inside, and the potato taste that often gets lost in so many other prepared fries."

"Do not brown them too much the first time you fry them," advises plates4u. "Also, do not forget to remove excess oil after the first fry."

"I never thought a recipe was needed for french fries, but when I've made them on my own they've never turned out as well as I'd like," shares DawninMonkton. "Best fries I've ever made. The soaking in advance and the double frying at two different temps made all the difference."

Editorial contributions by Rai Mincey

Chef John's French Fries (How to Make)

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close up view of french fries on a plate with a ramekin of ketchup
Prep Time:
10 mins
Cook Time:
10 mins
Additional Time:
30 mins
Total Time:
50 mins
Servings:
2

Ingredients

  • 1 large russet potato, cut into evenly sized strips

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

  • salt to taste

Directions

  1. Soak potato strips in a large bowl of water for about 30 minutes.

    Overhead view of a bowl of cut fries for potatoes soaking in water

    Dotdash Meredith Food Studios

  2. Pat with paper towels until thoroughly dry.

    Overhead shot of a baking sheet with cut fries laying on paper towels

    Dotdash Meredith Food Studios

  3. Heat oil in a deep-fryer or large saucepan to 275 degrees F (135 degrees C). Gently add potatoes to the hot oil and fry for about 5 minutes, stirring and flipping the potatoes occasionally.

    High angle view of fries cooking in hot oil on the stove

    Dotdash Meredith Food Studios

  4. Use a slotted spoon to transfer potatoes to a paper towel-lined plate. Let cool completely.

    High angle view of par-cooked fries on a baking sheet lined with paper towels

    Dotdash Meredith Food Studios

  5. Heat oil again, but this time to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Add potatoes and fry a second time until golden brown, 5 to 6 minutes.

    High angle view of cut potatoes cooking in a pan of hot oil to make fries

    Dotdash Meredith Food Studios

  6. Remove from the deep-fryer and blot with a paper towel. Sprinkle with salt to serve.

    High angle view of fries on a baking sheet being seasoned with salt

    Dotdash Meredith Food Studios

  7. Enjoy!

    close up view of french fries on a plate with a ramekin of ketchup

    DOTDASH MEREDITH FOOD STUDIOS 

Editor's Note:

We have determined the nutritional value of oil for frying based on a retention value of 10% after cooking. The exact amount will vary depending on cooking time and temperature, ingredient density, and the specific type of oil used.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

386 Calories
27g Fat
32g Carbs
4g Protein
Nutrition Facts
Servings Per Recipe 2
Calories 386
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 27g 35%
Saturated Fat 2g 10%
Cholesterol 0mg 0%
Sodium 312mg 14%
Total Carbohydrate 32g 12%
Dietary Fiber 3g 12%
Total Sugars 2g
Protein 4g 8%
Vitamin C 12mg 14%
Calcium 27mg 2%
Iron 2mg 9%
Potassium 822mg 17%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

** Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Amount is based on available nutrient data.

(-) Information is not currently available for this nutrient. If you are following a medically restrictive diet, please consult your doctor or registered dietitian before preparing this recipe for personal consumption.

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