In this recipe, you are going to learn how to make perfect homemade french fries every time. Making french fries at home looks like an easy process and fun but making perfect fries is not easy.
Origin of Homemade French Fries
The origin of French fries can be traced back to Belgium in the late 17th century. Farmers in the Meuse Valley used to fry small fish, but when the rivers froze over during winter, they would cut potatoes into the shape of fish and fry them instead. This is thought to be the earliest version of French fries.
The recipe was brought to America by French-speaking immigrants from Belgium in the late 19th century. It quickly became a popular snack food and is now a staple of fast food menus around the world.
Today, French fries are enjoyed in many different variations, from shoestring fries to curly fries, and can be seasoned with a variety of spices and sauces. They continue to be a beloved and iconic food, with a rich history that spans centuries and continents.
Homemade French Fries
Course: SidesCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy4
servings15
minutes25
minutes240
kcal120
grams40
minutesThis French fries recipe is a classic comfort food that is enjoyed all over the world. With its crispy exterior and soft and fluffy interior, it is the perfect side dish for burgers, sandwiches, or even as a snack on its own. This recipe is easy to follow and can be made in just a few steps, making it a great choice for a quick and delicious meal.
Ingredients
4 large russet potatoes
1 quart of vegetable oil
Salt, to taste
Directions
- Preheat the oil in a large pot or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- While the oil is heating up, wash the potatoes and peel them if desired. Cut them into thin sticks, about 1/4 inch (6mm) wide.
- Soak the potatoes in cold water for at least 30 minutes to remove excess starch and help the fries cook evenly.
- Drain the potatoes and pat them dry with paper towels.
- When the oil has reached the desired temperature, carefully add a handful of potatoes to the pot or fryer, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 3-5 minutes or until the fries are crispy and golden brown.
- Remove the fries from the oil using a slotted spoon or spider and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain off any excess oil. Sprinkle with salt while still hot.
- Repeat steps 5 and 6 until all the potatoes are fried.
- Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
- Enjoy your delicious homemade French fries!
Notes
- To make this recipe even better, try experimenting with different seasonings and spices to create unique and flavorful variations.
- The total time for making French fries is typically around 30-40 minutes. This includes the time required for preparing the potatoes, such as washing, peeling, and cutting them into fry-shaped pieces, as well as the actual cooking or baking time.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
Note: Please note that the nutritional value is approximate and may vary based on the specific ingredients and cooking methods used.
240 | 14g | 27g | 2g |
Calories | Fat | Carbs | Proteins |
➤ Show Full Nutrition Label
Nutrition Facts
4 servings per container
Serving Size120g
- Amount Per ServingCalories240
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat
14g
22%
- Saturated Fat 1.5g 8%
- Trans Fat 0g
- Cholesterol 0mg 0%
- Sodium 590mg 25%
- Potassium 0mg 0%
- Total Carbohydrate
27g
9%
- Dietary Fiber 2g 8%
- Sugars 0g
- Protein 2g 4%
* The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
Dietary Information for Homemade French Fries
Diet | Information |
---|---|
Gluten-Free | Yes |
Dairy-Free | Yes |
Vegan | Yes |
Vegetarian | Yes |
Keto | No |
Paleo | No |

My Advice
As a chef, I love making French fries because they’re so versatile and easy to customize. One tip I have for this recipe is to make sure you use high-quality potatoes, as they will make a big difference in the final product. Look for potatoes that are firm and free of blemishes or soft spots.
Another tip is to be careful when frying the potatoes, as hot oil can be dangerous. Use a sturdy pot or fryer and be sure to keep a close eye on the temperature to avoid burning the fries or causing a fire.
Finally, don’t be afraid to experiment with different seasonings and toppings to make your fries your own. From classic ketchup and mustard to more exotic spices and sauces, there are endless ways to customize this recipe to your taste. So go ahead and get creative, and enjoy your delicious homemade French fries!
Frequently Asked Questions
To double-fry French fries, first, fry them in oil until they are partially cooked, then remove them from the oil and let them cool for a few minutes. After the fries have cooled, fry them again for a few more minutes until they are crispy and golden brown. This process results in perfectly crispy and delicious French fries.
To deep fry frozen French fries, preheat the oil to 350°F (180°C). Add the frozen fries to the hot oil and fry for 3-5 minutes or until crispy and golden brown. Drain the fries on a paper towel and season with salt or any other desired seasoning.
To determine if French fries are kosher for Passover, check the ingredients. If certified kosher for Passover potatoes and oil are used, then they are considered kosher for Passover. Confirm with a trusted kosher authority or your rabbi for certainty.
A good way to test if the oil is hot enough is to dip the end of a wooden spoon into the oil. If bubbles form around the spoon, the oil is hot enough.
Yes, you can reuse the oil for frying, but be sure to strain it and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator until the next use.
Yes, you can make the French fries ahead of time and reheat them in the oven or air fryer for best results. However, they may not be as crispy as freshly fried fries.