Crispy Idaho French Fries Recipe: A Taste of Homemade Perfection

Nothing beats the taste of homemade French fries, especially when they're made with the renowned Idaho potato. Known for their ideal texture and flavor, Idaho potatoes are perfect for creating that crispy-on-the-outside, fluffy-on-the-inside fry that we all crave. The potato-growing conditions in Idaho, with its rich volcanic soil and consistent weather, produce the perfect spuds for frying. Whether you're making fries for a casual snack or pairing them with your favorite burger, this recipe will ensure your fries are as crispy and delicious as those from your favorite restaurant.

Photo byNick Davies

Recipe for Homemade Idaho Crispy French Fries

Ingredients:

• 3 large Idaho Russet potatoes
• 2 tablespoons white vinegar
• 4 cups vegetable oil for frying
• Kosher salt, to taste
• Optional seasoning: garlic powder, paprika, or rosemary salt

Instructions:

1. Prep the Potatoes: Peel the potatoes and cut them into 1/4-inch thick strips. You can also leave the skin on for a rustic look and added flavor. Place the cut fries in a large bowl of cold water, adding 2 tablespoons of vinegar to remove excess starch. Soak for at least 30 minutes, or even overnight in the fridge for extra crispiness.
2. Blanching the Fries: Drain the potatoes and pat them dry with a kitchen towel. Heat your oil in a deep skillet or pot to around 325°F. Add a small batch of the fries and cook them for about 4-5 minutes. This first fry will cook the inside of the potatoes without browning them. Remove the fries and set them aside on paper towels to drain.
3. The Crispy Finish: Increase the oil temperature to 375°F. Return the blanched fries to the oil, cooking them in small batches for 2-3 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and crispy.
4. Season & Serve: Once the fries are done, place them on a paper towel-lined tray to absorb excess oil. Season immediately with kosher salt or your preferred seasoning blend, such as garlic powder or rosemary salt, while they're still hot.
5. Enjoy your crispy fries as a perfect side for burgers, sandwiches, or on their own with your favorite dipping sauces.

The Secret to Perfect Crispy Fries

The trick to making crispy French fries lies in soaking the potatoes to remove excess starch and frying them twice. The first lower-temperature fry ensures the potatoes are soft on the inside, while the second, hotter fry makes the exterior perfectly crispy. Idaho Russet potatoes are ideal because they have the right balance of starch and moisture, which helps achieve that classic fry texture​(Idaho® Potato Commission)​(Busy Creating Memories)​(Idaho® Potato Commission).

Final Thoughts

Making homemade fries might take a little time, but the results are well worth the effort. These Idaho French fries are crispy, delicious, and perfect for any occasion. Give this recipe a try and share your results with me in the comments! Don't forget to follow me for more fantastic recipes like this.